Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

As a fan of game day gatherings, I can’t resist preparing these Baked Spinach Pinwheels for the Super Bowl. They are always a hit! The flaky pastry filled with a savory spinach and cheese mixture has become a staple in my recipe repertoire. Not only are they easy to make, but they also disappear quickly, leaving my guests craving more. The combination of flavors brings an irresistible twist to the classic game day snack. I can guarantee you’ll want to have this dish at every party!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:22:34.751Z

Making Baked Spinach Pinwheels is always an adventure in my kitchen. The first time I whipped these up, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. I used fresh spinach and a blend of cheese to enhance the flavor. The trick is to ensure the filling is well-seasoned before rolling it into the pastry. This step really makes a difference!

What I love most about these pinwheels is their versatility. I can customize the filling based on what I have on hand or to suit my guests' taste preferences. For instance, adding in some garlic and red pepper flakes can give them an extra kick. They’re perfect served warm, and even good cold as leftovers!

Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
Flaky pastry wrapped around a creamy, savory filling
Easily customizable with different spices and ingredients
Perfect for entertaining and always gets rave reviews

Perfecting the Spinach Filling

The filling is the heart of these baked spinach pinwheels, and using fresh spinach is essential for achieving that vibrant color and flavor. I recommend sautéing the spinach briefly in a pan to wilt it down; this step not only enhances its flavor but also prevents excess moisture from making the pinwheels soggy during baking. Allow the spinach to cool after cooking to balance the temperature with the cheeses and maintain the integrity of the puff pastry.

Ricotta cheese plays a significant role here, providing a creamy texture that binds the spinach with the other cheeses. If you prefer a richer flavor, try using a mix of ricotta and cream cheese. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dollop of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture before spreading it on the pastry—this can elevate the overall taste without overwhelming the other flavors.

Rolling and Baking Techniques

To create perfectly cylindrical pinwheels, make sure to roll the pastry tightly yet carefully. If the puff pastry is too warm, it may become difficult to handle, so working quickly or chilling it for a few minutes can be beneficial. When slicing the pinwheels, using a very sharp knife will ensure clean cuts, preventing any squishing of the filling. For an even more visually appealing result, I often cut the logs with unflavored dental floss; this technique prevents the dough from compressing and keeps the filling intact.

When baking, keep an eye on the pinwheels as oven temperatures can vary. Look for a golden-brown color on the edges and puffing up of the dough—this is the best indicator that they are done. If you find they are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful pinwheels:

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start assembling the pinwheels.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious spinach pinwheels:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well-combined.

Roll out the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Fill the Pastry

Spread the spinach filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.

Roll and Slice

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Slice into 1-inch thick pinwheels.

Bake

Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor dimension, try mixing in some red pepper flakes or crumbled feta cheese into the filling. Serve them with a dip like ranch or marinara for extra yumminess!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These pinwheels can easily be prepared in advance, making them perfect for busy game day schedules. Once you’ve assembled the pinwheels, you can freeze them before baking. Place the uncooked pinwheels on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. They can be baked from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky crust, rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These baked spinach pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature. Present them on a platter alongside a zesty dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for a delightful experience. Adding fresh herbs as a garnish can enhance their aesthetics and flavor, making them even more inviting to your guests.

Consider pairing these pinwheels with a variety of dips or sides for a full spread. A simple yogurt-based drizzle or a creamy spinach-artichoke dip can complement their flavors beautifully. They also make for a delicious addition to a charcuterie board, allowing for an eclectic mix of tastes and textures at your Super Bowl gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to remove excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pinwheels a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these pinwheels?

They are delicious with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli!