If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with a dish that’s as impressive in flavor as it is in presentation, then you absolutely must try this French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy flank steak wrapped around a luscious blend of deeply caramelized onions, savory herbs, and melted Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses, all seared to perfection. This dish combines the rich, comforting flavors of French onion soup with the satisfying heartiness of a perfectly cooked steak, creating pinwheels that are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, these pinwheels will become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe are straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the sweetness of caramelized onions to the creamy, gooey cheeses, everything combines to create a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, butterflied and pounded to 1/4-inch thickness: The perfect cut for rolling, tender and flavorful when cooked medium-rare.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful sear on both the onions and steak.
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: Slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives a subtle pungency that enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers a delicate herbal note that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies the flavors throughout the recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and aromatic touch.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami richness and depth to the caramelized onion mixture.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Helps to deglaze the pan and create a luscious, jammy sauce for the onions.
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully to add a nutty, slightly sweet creaminess.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives that stretchy, gooey factor we all love in cheesy dishes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant garnish finishing touch.
How to Make French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally for about 15 to 20 minutes. Patience here is key because those onions need to soften and turn a rich golden brown to develop that deep caramelized sweetness that sets this dish apart.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Once the onions have reached that perfect caramelized stage, stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to let all those fragrant aromas come together before adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces and the onions form a thick, jammy consistency. Then, remove from the heat and let it cool just a bit.
Step 3: Prepare the Steak
Lay your butterflied and pounded flank steak flat on a sturdy cutting board. Brush the entire surface with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil—this helps both with flavor and getting a nice sear later on.
Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the luscious caramelized onion mixture evenly over the steak, making sure every inch is covered with that jammy goodness. Then sprinkle the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella cheese over the onions. Starting from the long side, roll the steak tightly into a log shape. Secure it with kitchen twine at one-inch intervals; this step keeps your pinwheels intact when cooking and slicing.
Step 5: Slice and Sear
For cleaner slices, refrigerate the rolled steak for about 20 minutes before cutting. Then slice into pinwheels approximately 1 1/2 inches thick. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high and sear the pinwheels for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F for that perfect medium-rare finish. Let the pinwheels rest for five minutes once done to let those juices redistribute.
How to Serve French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbaceous note that welcomes each bite. If you want to be a little extra, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can complement the sweetness of the onions beautifully.
Side Dishes
French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light mixed green salad tossed in vinaigrette. For something a bit heartier, roasted root vegetables or steamed asparagus rounds out the plate with color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving at a party or want a dramatic presentation, arrange the pinwheels in a circular pattern on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs and edible flowers. You could also serve them alongside dipping sauces like a horseradish cream or a rich red wine jus for guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy those rich flavors without having to cook again.
Freezing
You can freeze the pinwheels before cooking by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep nicely for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat so the cheese melts without overcooking the steak. Alternatively, warm them in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15 minutes to preserve juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Flank steak is ideal because it’s thin and easy to roll, but you could try skirt steak or a thinly sliced sirloin. Just watch the cooking time to avoid toughness.
Is there a vegetarian version of French Onion Steak Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Swap steak for large portobello mushroom caps or thin slices of eggplant and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The caramelized onions and cheese will still shine beautifully.
How do I know when the pinwheels are perfectly cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. The exterior should be browned and slightly crisp while the inside stays tender and juicy.
Can I prepare the onions ahead of time?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually saves a lot of time on the day you’re cooking the pinwheels.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?
Provolone or Swiss cheese both melt well and provide a similar nutty and creamy flavor that complements the onions and steak nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe that brings together the best of comfort food and elegant presentation. I promise once you try these beautifully rolled, flavorful pinwheels, they’ll quickly become a cherished part of your recipe rotation. So grab that flank steak, fire up your skillet, and prepare to enjoy every savory, cheesy bite of this unforgettable dish!
Print
French Onion Steak Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
French Onion Steak Pinwheels combine tender flank steak with rich, caramelized onions and melted Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses, rolled into flavorful pinwheel slices and seared to perfection. This savory dish offers a delicious blend of textures and tastes, perfect for an impressive yet easy-to-make main course.
Ingredients
Steak and Filling
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak, butterflied and pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Reduce: Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and the onion mixture becomes thick and jammy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Steak: Lay the butterflied and pounded flank steak flat on a cutting board and brush it evenly with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Spread the cooled caramelized onion mixture evenly over the steak. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella evenly on top. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the steak into a log and secure it with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals to hold its shape.
- Slice the Pinwheels: Slice between the twine to create pinwheels about 1 1/2 inches thick.
- Sear the Pinwheels: Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pinwheel slices for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness, aiming for about 130°F internal temperature for medium-rare.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the pinwheels rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For easier slicing, chill the rolled steak in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before cutting into pinwheels.
- Provolone or Swiss cheese can be used as substitutes for Gruyère for a different cheese flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pinwheels reach your preferred level of doneness with precision.
