Pinwheel steaks, with their elegant presentation and tender, flavorful interior, are a fantastic choice for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. This guide will walk you through how to cook a perfect oven-baked pinwheel steak, ensuring a juicy and delicious result every time.
What is a Pinwheel Steak?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's clarify what a pinwheel steak actually is. It's a flavorful cut of beef, typically sirloin or top round, that's butterflied (sliced horizontally almost all the way through), pounded thin, seasoned, and then rolled up tightly before cooking. This creates a visually appealing presentation and helps to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the meat.
Preparing Your Pinwheel Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) beef sirloin or top round steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Your favorite fillings (e.g., cheese, herbs, mushrooms, bacon) - optional
Instructions:
- Butterfly the Steak: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the steak horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Pound it Thin: Place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the steak.
- Add Fillings (Optional): If using fillings, spread them evenly over the steak. Popular choices include shredded cheese, chopped herbs (rosemary, thyme), sautéed mushrooms, or crispy bacon. Let your culinary creativity shine!
- Roll and Tie: Tightly roll the steak into a pinwheel shape. Secure it with kitchen twine at regular intervals to maintain its shape during cooking.
- Sear (Optional): For extra flavor, you can sear the pinwheel steak in a hot skillet with a little oil for a few minutes on each side before roasting. This step is not mandatory but adds a nice crust.
Cooking Your Pinwheel Steak in the Oven: Achieving Perfection
Oven Method:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place in Oven: Place the pinwheel steak on a roasting rack set over a baking sheet. This allows for even heat circulation and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Roast: Roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, or 160°F (71°C) for well-done. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the kitchen twine and slice the pinwheel steak into thick rounds. Serve immediately.
How Long Does it Take to Cook a Pinwheel Steak in the Oven?
The cooking time for a pinwheel steak in the oven depends on its thickness and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, plan for 45-60 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your preferred internal temperature.
What Temperature Should a Pinwheel Steak Be Cooked To?
The ideal internal temperature for a pinwheel steak depends on your preference:
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
Can I Cook a Pinwheel Steak on the Grill?
Yes, you can absolutely cook a pinwheel steak on the grill! Follow the preparation instructions above, and then grill over medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
What Sides Go Well with Pinwheel Steak?
Pinwheel steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some excellent choices include:
- Roasted vegetables (potatoes, asparagus, carrots)
- Mashed potatoes
- Creamy polenta
- Salad
- Rice
By following these steps, you'll be able to create a delicious and impressive pinwheel steak that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
