How to Cook Premade Steak Pinwheels in Cast Iron Skillet?
To cook premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet, first, take the pinwheels out of the refrigerator and let them sit for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Rub a cast iron griddle pan or baking tray with vegetable oil and heat it in the oven for 3-4 minutes.
Place the pinwheels on the heated tray and cook for 3 minutes on each side.
Cover the tray with aluminum foil to create a steaming dome.
Cook the pinwheel steaks for 10-15 minutes for medium doneness.
The cooking time will vary depending on the steak’s thickness and the size of the pinwheels.
Use a meat thermometer to determine the doneness of the steak, or check the color of the crust and juices inside if you don’t have one.
Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Did you know that the term “pinwheel” originally referred to a child’s toy consisting of a wheel with colored pins or feathers that spun in the wind? The name was later adopted for the rolled-up steak dish due to its similar appearance.
2. In the realm of steak pinwheels, there is a lesser-known variety called the “Cordon Bleu” pinwheel, which combines the traditional pinwheel technique with ingredients commonly found in chicken Cordon Bleu. It offers a delightful twist on the classic steak dish!
3. While cooking premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet is a common method, you may be surprised to learn that cast iron skillets have been used for cooking since ancient times! The first known cast iron artifacts date back to the 5th century BC in China.
4. Did you know that using a cast iron skillet to cook steak pinwheels can actually be beneficial for your health? When used regularly, cast iron can increase the iron content of your food, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with iron deficiency or anemia.
5. For those who prefer a more international twist to their steak pinwheels, you might be interested to know that in Brazil, there is a similar dish called “Bife a Rolê.” It consists of thinly sliced beef wrapped around a filling of bacon, onions, and other seasonings, and is typically pan-fried or stewed.
Technique For Cooking Premade Steak Pinwheels In A Cast Iron Skillet
Cooking premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-style meal at home. The technique involves using a cast iron griddle or a baking tray to achieve a perfectly seared crust and a juicy, tender interior.
Before you begin, make sure to take the steak pinwheels out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly.
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven is heating, rub your cast iron griddle or baking tray with vegetable oil, ensuring that the entire surface is coated. Place the oiled griddle or tray in the oven for approximately 3-4 minutes to heat it up.
Once the griddle or tray is hot, carefully place the premade steak pinwheels onto the heated surface. Cook the pinwheels for about 3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. This initial searing process will help lock in the juices and give the pinwheels a delicious caramelized flavor.
To further enhance the tenderness and moisture of the steak, cover the griddle or tray with aluminum foil, creating a steaming dome effect. This will allow the pinwheels to cook in their own juices, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish.
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the size of the pinwheels. A general guideline is to cook the pinwheel steaks for approximately 10-15 minutes for medium doneness. However, it is highly recommended to use a meat thermometer to accurately determine the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for a temperature of 130°F, while for medium, aim for 140°F. As the pinwheels cook, their internal temperature will rise, so be sure to monitor them closely to achieve the desired level of doneness.
Once the pinwheels have reached your preferred temperature, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. While the pinwheels are resting, the residual heat will continue to cook them slightly, so keep this in mind when determining the cooking time.
Recommended Tools And Ingredients For The Recipe
To prepare and cook premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet, you will need a few essential tools and ingredients. These include:
- A chef’s knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife to easily slice the pinwheels and prepare any additional ingredients for the recipe.
- A 10-inch cast iron skillet: The cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a perfectly seared crust and even heat distribution.
- A meat mallet: Use a meat mallet to gently pound and flatten the steak pinwheels for easier rolling.
- A solid turner: This tool will help you carefully flip the pinwheels during cooking without disturbing the filling.
- An instant-read thermometer: An instant-read thermometer ensures that the pinwheels are cooked to the desired level of doneness, providing accurate temperature readings in seconds.
In addition to the tools, you will need the following ingredients for the recipe:
- Flank steak: Flank steak is used for this recipe as it is a flavorful and moderately priced cut of meat. Its thinness makes it ideal for rolling and stuffing.
- Boursin cream cheese: Boursin cream cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor to the pinwheels. Its creamy texture makes it easy to spread evenly over the steak.
- Cracked peppercorns: These add a touch of heat and a pleasant crunch to the pinwheels’ filling.
- Unsalted butter: Butter is used to melt over the pinwheels while they cook, adding a luscious richness to the dish.
- Minced garlic: Minced garlic infuses the pinwheels with a delicious aroma and savory flavor.
- Provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild and creamy layer to the filling.
- Spinach: Spinach not only provides a fresh and vibrant taste but also contributes to the nutritional value of the pinwheels.
Cooking Instructions For Perfectly Cooked Steak Pinwheels
Now that you have all the necessary tools and ingredients, follow these step-by-step instructions to cook premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and remove the premade steak pinwheels from the refrigerator, allowing them to come to room temperature for 30 minutes.
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While the oven is preheating, rub your cast iron skillet with vegetable oil, making sure to coat the entire surface.
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Place the oiled cast iron skillet in the oven for 3-4 minutes to heat up.
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Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the pinwheels onto the heated surface, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
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Cook the pinwheels for approximately 3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms.
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Create a steaming dome by covering the skillet with aluminum foil, allowing the pinwheels to cook in their own juices. This will help keep them moist and tender.
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Continue cooking the pinwheel steaks for 10-15 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. To accurately determine the internal temperature, use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
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Once the pinwheels have reached the desired temperature, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pinwheels rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
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Serve the cooked pinwheels as a main dish, accompanied by your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
Customizing The Recipe With Different Toppings
One of the great things about cooking premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet is the ability to customize the recipe with different toppings and fillings. While the basic recipe calls for Boursin cream cheese, cracked peppercorns, provolone cheese, and spinach, there are numerous other delicious options to explore.
Consider trying toppings such as:
- arugula, which adds a peppery bite
- Havarti cheese for its buttery and slightly sweet flavor
- cheddar cheese or blue cheese crumbles for a stronger, more robust taste
Additionally, you can add a pop of flavor with pimento cheese or roasted red peppers, or even introduce savory meats like deli ham, prosciutto, or salami.
By adding your favorite toppings, you can create a unique and personalized version of the steak pinwheels, ensuring a delicious and mouthwatering meal every time.
Shelf Life And Storage Tips For Cooked Pinwheels
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the pinwheels in advance for a party, it’s important to know how to properly store them.
- Cooked pinwheels can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigeration.
- After that, it is recommended to store any remaining pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They can be safely stored for 2-3 days.
However, it is not recommended to freeze cooked pinwheels, as the cheese and spinach do not thaw well and may affect the texture and taste of the dish.
For the best quality and taste, it is always advisable to consume the pinwheels as soon as possible after cooking. Reheating leftovers can be done in a preheated oven at a low temperature, around 275°F, just until warmed through.
- Store cooked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator after 2 hours at room temperature.
- Do not freeze cooked pinwheels to preserve their texture and taste.
- Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at a low temperature.
Involving Children In The Cooking Process And More Main Dish Ideas
Cooking with children can be a fun and educational experience. There are various age-appropriate tasks that kids can participate in, depending on their abilities. Younger children can assist in washing and drying the spinach or tearing it into bite-sized pieces. Older children may be able to help with rolling and securing the pinwheels with toothpicks.
In terms of more main dish ideas, there are countless options to explore. Some popular choices include grilled chicken, shrimp scampi, or even vegetable stir-fry. By exploring new recipes, you can expand your culinary repertoire and continue to enjoy delicious meals with your family and friends.
With its rich flavors and tender texture, cooking premade steak pinwheels in a cast iron skillet is a rewarding culinary experience. From the initial preparation to the final plating, this recipe offers a delicious and impressive dish that will make every meal feel indulgent and satisfying. So, gear up your cast iron skillet and get ready to savor these mouthwatering pinwheels!
- Younger children tasks:
- Washing and drying spinach
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Tearing spinach into bite-sized pieces
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Older children tasks:
- Rolling and securing pinwheels with toothpicks
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cook store bought pinwheel steaks?
To cook store-bought pinwheel steaks, start by preheating a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once heated, place the pinwheel steaks in the pan and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until they are browned. Next, transfer the pan or skillet into a preheated oven and continue cooking the pinwheels for about 8-10 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. This method ensures that the pinwheel steaks are nicely seared on the outside and cooked evenly on the inside, resulting in a delicious and flavorful meal.
How do you cook a steak well done in a cast iron skillet?
To achieve a well-done steak in a cast iron skillet, start by preheating the skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, season the steak with salt and pepper, and place it in the skillet. Sear each side of the steak for about 5 minutes, flipping it only once during this process. This will ensure a nice crust on the surface of the steak. After searing, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the steak for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness. It’s important to monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the steak. Once done, let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
Do you use butter or oil when cooking a steak in a cast iron skillet?
To achieve a perfectly seared steak in a cast iron skillet, it is recommended to use oil rather than butter. Adding oil to a hot cast iron skillet allows for a higher smoke point, creating a suitable environment for searing the steak without burning the butter or causing it to smoke excessively. The oil helps prevent the steak from sticking to the skillet while providing a consistent and even heat distribution for a deliciously cooked piece of meat. So, when cooking a steak in a cast iron skillet, oil is the way to go for a successful and flavorful result.
How to cook steak from grocery store?
To cook steak from a grocery store, start by placing the steaks on a rack on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 200ºF. Cook the steaks in the oven until the internal temperature is 10 degrees below your desired doneness. This process usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the thickness and size of the steaks. If you don’t have an oven probe, it is recommended to check the temperature every 10 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.