French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
If you’re searching for a simple but totally irresistible appetizer, let me introduce you to my latest party obsession: French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels. Think flaky, golden pastry hugging thin-sliced roast beef, gooey cheese, and just a touch of zing from Dijon mustard. Every bite is deeply savory, buttery, and perfect for dunking in warm, fragrant au jus. Best of all, these pinwheels are incredibly easy to assemble yet look (and taste!) like something straight from a fancy bistro. They have absolutely stolen the show at every gathering I’ve brought them to, and I guarantee they’ll disappear in minutes at yours!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of ingredients come together to make French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels shine. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, creaminess, or that unmistakable French dip flavor.
- Puff pastry: Pre-made, flaky puff pastry is the foundation and creates irresistible layers without any fuss.
- Dijon mustard: This adds bright, tangy flavor that wakes up the savory elements and keeps things from getting too heavy.
- Thinly sliced roast beef: The heart of these pinwheels—choose high-quality deli roast beef for the best texture and taste.
- Shredded provolone or Swiss cheese: These melt beautifully and bring all the luxurious goodness you want in a French dip.
- Caramelized onions (optional): They add a mellow sweetness and depth if you want to take your pinwheels over the top.
- Fresh thyme leaves (or dried): This herb gives a fresh, earthy aroma and classic French flair.
- Egg wash (egg beaten with water): Brushed on top, it encourages that gorgeous glossy and golden finish.
- Au jus mix (prepared): This is the must-have dipping sauce—salty, beefy, and so satisfying with every bite.
How to Make French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, which makes cleanup a breeze. Unfold your thawed sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out just enough to smooth the seams—this gives you the perfect base to stack all those delicious layers.
Step 2: Layer on the Flavor
Spread the Dijon mustard over the entire surface of the pastry using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Next, evenly layer the roast beef slices, making sure they reach right to the edges. Sprinkle the shredded provolone or Swiss cheese all over, and if you’re a fan of sweet, sticky onions, scatter those caramelized beauties on now. Finish with a gentle shower of thyme for that unmistakable French fragrance.
Step 3: Roll Up and Slice
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the pastry into a snug log. Go slowly so nothing spills out and you get beautiful, even layers in every pinwheel. Once it’s rolled up, use a very sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices. Take your time—this step is all about those photogenic spirals.
Step 4: Ready to Bake
Arrange your pinwheels cut side down on your prepared baking sheet, leaving just a little space between each one since they’ll puff up beautifully. Brush the tops with the egg wash to encourage the dreamiest golden crust. Slide them into your hot oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve risen gloriously and are a deep, enticing golden brown.
Step 5: Serve With Au Jus
While your pinwheels are baking, prepare the au jus mix according to the packet instructions. Once the French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute or two (if you can resist!), then serve warm with little bowls of au jus for dipping. That first dunk is pure magic!
How to Serve French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, sprinkle your warm pinwheels with a little extra fresh thyme or finely chopped parsley. If you want a hit of briny brightness, try scattering a few chopped cornichons or serving with pickled onions on the side. It’s all about that little spark of color and freshness!
Side Dishes
French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels love a simple supporting cast. Offer them alongside a crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette, or serve next to roasted fingerling potatoes for a heartier snack spread. They’re also fantastic nested among other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms and marinated olives for a party tray that wows.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack up your pinwheels on a rustic wooden board, nestled around a small bowl of steaming au jus, for a cozy, shareable feel. For fancier occasions, skewer each pinwheel with pretty toothpicks, or serve on individual appetizer plates with a drizzle of jus across the top. Don’t be surprised if people start snapping photos before they dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with extras (it’s rare!), French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels keep well in the fridge. Pop them into an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three days, though they’re best enjoyed warm and crisp, so plan to reheat before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pinwheels after slicing. Lay them out on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen—just add an extra five minutes or so to the baking time, watching closely for that perfect golden color.
Reheating
To revive that signature flakiness, reheat French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes. Microwave reheating will work in a pinch, but the oven really brings back the crisp pastry and gooey cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer, Snack
Absolutely! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a little sharp cheddar could work here—just choose something that melts well and has flavor you enjoy. The classic combo is provolone or Swiss, but there’s plenty of room to experiment.
Can I make French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble and slice the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate them up to a day ahead. Bake right before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to caramelize onions for this recipe?
Sauté thinly sliced onions in a bit of butter over low heat, stirring gently for 25–30 minutes until deep golden and jammy. A pinch of salt and a dash of balsamic vinegar really help bring out their sweetness.
Do these pinwheels travel well for potlucks or tailgating?
Yes, they’re a perfect make-and-take app! Transport them in a sturdy container, and if possible, reheat briefly upon arrival for the best texture. Keep the au jus in a thermos or insulated cup for easy, hot dipping.
Are there any vegetarian swaps for this recipe?
If you’d like a meatless version, try layers of roasted mushrooms, spinach, and extra caramelized onions with your favorite melty cheese. The same pastry technique applies, and you can dip them in a rich vegetable broth.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a festive get-together or just craving something extra special for snacking, French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels prove that impressive appetizers don’t have to be complicated. Give them a try at your next gathering—you’re in for crispy, gooey, mouthwatering bites that will have everyone asking for your secret!
Print
French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer or snack, featuring savory roast beef, gooey cheese, and flavorful thyme rolled up in puff pastry. Perfect for parties or gatherings!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Pinwheels:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Fillings:
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1/2 pound thinly sliced roast beef, 1 cup shredded provolone or Swiss cheese, 1 small onion caramelized (optional), 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Egg Wash:
1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Au Jus Dip:
1 packet au jus mix, prepared according to package directions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble Pinwheels: Roll out the puff pastry and spread Dijon mustard. Layer with roast beef, cheese, onions, and thyme. Roll tightly and slice into rounds.
- Bake: Place pinwheels on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm with prepared au jus for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding horseradish cream or garlic butter under the roast beef.
- Pinwheels can be prepped ahead, refrigerated, and baked when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
