Super Bowl Appetizer Spinach Cheese Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Spinach Cheese Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 large tortilla or flatbread; 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Spinach Cheese Pinwheels for the Super Bowl! They’re the perfect finger food that everyone enjoys, and I find that they’re both simple to make and packed with flavor. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy cheese, and a hint of garlic creates a delightful bite that’s irresistible. Plus, these pinwheels look amazing on a platter, making them perfect for entertaining! Whether you're hosting or attending a party, these pinwheels are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:20:37.910Z

Making Spinach Cheese Pinwheels has become a beloved tradition in my home during the Super Bowl. I love experimenting with different cheese blends, but I’ve found that using cream cheese along with sharp cheddar gives the best creamy and flavorful results. I also always sauté the spinach first to enhance its flavor before mixing it with the cheeses. This little step elevates the dish and ensures that the filling is rich and satisfying.

During our last get-together, I tried adding some crushed red pepper to the mixture for a bit of heat, and everyone couldn't get enough of them! I suggest serving them warm, so they’re fresh out of the oven. To keep them crispy, I wrap them well and bake them just before the party starts. You'll love how they disappear within minutes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh spinach and creamy cheeses for a delightful blend of flavors
Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for a crowd
Easily customizable with different fillings or spices

      

Mastering the Rolling Technique

One of the key steps in creating perfect Spinach Cheese Pinwheels is mastering the rolling technique. After spreading the filling over the tortilla, start rolling from one end, applying gentle pressure to keep the filling intact and evenly distributed. If you're having trouble with the filling escaping, try using a firmer tortilla; corn tortillas, for example, can be more pliable than flour ones. Just remember to roll tightly but not so tightly that the ingredients ooze out.

Allowing the rolled tortilla to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes is not just a waiting game; it’s essential for achieving a nice, clean cut. The chilling process firms up the filling, making it easier to slice into even pieces. This heightens the presentation as well, resulting in pinwheels that are visually appealing and consistently packed with flavors in each bite.

Flavor Enhancements and Substitutions

While the base of your Spinach Cheese Pinwheels is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor enhancements. For example, adding a tablespoon of crumbled feta cheese can impart a tangier taste that beautifully complements the spinach and cheddar. Similarly, incorporating freshly chopped herbs, such as dill or basil, can elevate the overall flavor profile, making these pinwheels even more remarkable.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for traditional cream cheese. Additionally, switching out sharp cheddar for mozzarella can yield a milder flavor with a delightful gooey texture. These substitutions maintain the essence of the recipe while allowing you to cater to specific dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Spinach Cheese Pinwheels are best served warm, as the gooey cheese and flavorful filling are at their prime right out of the oven. If you’re preparing them ahead of time for a gathering, you can assemble and refrigerate them without baking. Just make sure to keep the pinwheels tightly wrapped in plastic to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge, ensuring they come out crispy and golden.

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring they regain their delightful crispness. Alternatively, if you freeze them before baking, you can pop them directly into the oven from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for optimal results.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 large tortilla or flatbread
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the tortilla tightly into a log, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.

Slice and Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the log from the refrigerator, unwrap, and slice into 1-inch pieces. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush olive oil on top of each pinwheel.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Pro Tips

These pinwheels are versatile! Feel free to add ingredients like cooked chicken, bacon bits, or different herbs to the filling for extra flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making pinwheels is the filling leaking out during baking. To combat this, ensure you roll the tortilla snugly and seal the edges with a little cream cheese or water. If you find that your filling is too loose, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to bind it better or reducing the moisture from the sautéed spinach by cooking it slightly longer until most of the water evaporates.

Another potential problem is achieving a perfect baking time. Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on your pinwheels in the last few minutes of baking. They should be golden brown and crispy with a slight crunch on the outside. If you find them browning too quickly, rotate the baking sheet or lower the temperature slightly to allow even cooking.

Scaling the Recipe for Larger Gatherings

If you're expecting a larger crowd, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. Each tortilla yields about six pinwheels, so for 20 guests, prepare around 4-5 tortillas. Just ensure to multiply your filling ingredients accordingly, and consider using multiple baking sheets to maximize oven space and reduce baking time.

When preparing larger quantities, it can be beneficial to prep the filling in bulk. Mix all of your ingredients in a large bowl, and then distribute evenly among the tortillas. This ensures consistency among all pinwheels, both in terms of flavor and texture. Additionally, feel free to enhance the variety; try different combinations of cheeses or add diced sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll up the pinwheels a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for the cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ Can I freeze these pinwheels?

Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled pinwheels before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Bake them directly from the frozen state, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ How can I make these pinwheels spicy?

Adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling is a great way to spice things up!