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: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package of refrigerated puff pastry (thawed)

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely love serving these baked spinach pinwheels at our Super Bowl gatherings. They’re not only easy to prepare but also disappear quickly from the platter! With a filling of creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and a hint of garlic, each bite is bursting with flavor. I always make extra because friends and family can’t resist going back for seconds. These pinwheels are a hit with both kids and adults, making them the perfect snack to enjoy while cheering for our favorite team.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:54:34.993Z

In my quest for the perfect Super Bowl snack, I stumbled upon this recipe for baked spinach pinwheels. I was intrigued by how simple it was to bring together just a few ingredients and create such a flavorful appetizer. One key tip I found is to ensure the spinach is well-drained; it prevents the filling from becoming soggy and helps maintain a great texture.

Every time I make these, I tweak the spices a bit to suit the crowd's taste, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra heat. Seeing my friends and family smiling and enjoying these pinwheels makes the effort worth it, and I can guarantee they'll be a fixture at every gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy outside with a gooey, cheesy inside
Packed with nutritious spinach, making it a healthier choice
Quick to make and perfect for sharing during the game

      

Perfecting the Pinwheel Texture

Achieving the right texture in your baked spinach pinwheels is essential for a delightful snacking experience. The puff pastry should be rolled out evenly on a floured surface to avoid tears and ensure uniform baking. When you slice the pinwheels, aim for 1-inch pieces; this size allows them to cook evenly, achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a gooey, cheesy interior. Keep an eye on the color while baking—you're looking for a lovely golden brown all around, indicating that the pastry is fully cooked and the cheese inside is bubbling.

Another tip for perfect texture is to avoid overfilling the pastry. Too much filling can lead to exploding pinwheels in the oven. Use just enough of the spinach mixture to cover the surface, allowing the pastry to roll up nicely. If you find that your filling seems too creamy or runny, add a bit more grated Parmesan to help bind it together.

Ingredient Insights

The role of fresh spinach in this recipe cannot be overstated. Not only does it add flavor, but it also provides a nutritional boost, rich in vitamins and minerals. Using freshly chopped spinach ensures that your pinwheels have a vibrant color and a fresh taste, perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. If you need a substitute, frozen spinach can work, but make sure to thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture that can make the pastry soggy.

Cream cheese is the backbone of the filling, providing creaminess and stabilizing the mixture. It makes it easy to spread and melds wonderfully with the cheeses. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative, especially if you're catering to specific dietary needs.

Ingredients

Gather the following items to prepare these delicious pinwheels:

For the Pinwheels

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package of refrigerated puff pastry (thawed)

Make sure all ingredients are prepared before you start rolling the pinwheels.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your baked spinach pinwheels:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Roll the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry.

Form Pinwheels

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry into a log shape. Slice into 1-inch pieces and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed.

Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For an added pop of flavor, consider drizzling the pinwheels with a balsamic glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These baked spinach pinwheels can be served standalone, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. A light ranch dressing or a tangy marinara sauce enhances the flavors even further. For an elegant touch at your Super Bowl party, try serving them on a platter with a combination of assorted cheeses and vegetables for a colorful and inviting spread.

For those looking to kick things up a notch, consider adding ingredients like crumbled feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes to the spinach filling. These additions can provide a delightful twist, enhancing the flavor profile and making your pinwheels even more memorable for guests.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time on game day, preparing the pinwheels in advance can be a lifesaver. You can assemble them up to a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting them in the oven, which will help them cook evenly.

If you have leftovers (which is rarely the case!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving, which tends to make them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels, place them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to one day before baking.

→ What can I serve these pinwheels with?

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of dips like ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Definitely! You can freeze unbaked pinwheels. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

→ What if I don't have puff pastry?

You can use tortilla wraps or crepes as an alternative base for the filling.