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 grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Party Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Baked Spinach Pinwheels, especially for Super Bowl gatherings! The combination of buttery puff pastry and a savory spinach filling is always a hit with my friends and family. Each bite is packed with flavor and they disappear quickly from the platter. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep time. These pinwheels are perfect for anyone looking to impress their guests with minimal effort!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:09:34.845Z

When I first decided to create these Baked Spinach Pinwheels, I wanted something that would be both delicious and easy to prepare. I experimented with chilled puff pastry and a filling boasting ricotta, spinach, and cheese, which turned out to be a winning combination. Each bite is flaky and flavorful, which keeps everyone coming back for more!

One valuable tip I learned while making these is to make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible before mixing it with the cheeses. This ensures that the pinwheels don’t get soggy during baking. I’ve seen this little trick make a huge difference in the final texture, leaving my guests impressed and asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
Flaky, buttery crust that complements the creamy filling
Packed with nutritious spinach and cheesy goodness
Perfect finger food for parties or game days

Perfect Ingredient Balance

The combination of ricotta and Parmesan cheese not only provides a rich, creamy texture but also balances the slight bitterness of the spinach. Ricotta, being soft and spreadable, allows for easy mixing, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the filling. If you want to enhance the savory profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, which pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses and greens.

Using fresh spinach is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach, while a convenient alternative, often contains excess moisture. To use frozen spinach, make sure to fully thaw it and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing it with the cheeses. This prevents the pinwheels from becoming soggy during baking, ensuring that you achieve the desired flaky crust.

Mastering the Rolling Technique

When rolling out the puff pastry, aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure even baking. Uneven thickness can lead to some areas baking too quickly while others remain doughy. A lightly floured rolling pin can help maintain an even surface, and if you find your pastry sticking, dust it lightly with flour instead of trying to force it.

To create neatly cut pinwheels, I recommend using a sharp chef’s knife or a pizza cutter. This prevents squishing the ends and ensures a clean cut. When slicing, make sure to cut straight down rather than dragging your knife, which can cause the filling to ooze out. Arrange the cut pinwheels with space between them to allow for proper expansion while baking.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are nicely combined.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle. Ensure it’s evenly rolled to about 1/4 inch thick.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a little space around the edges. Carefully roll the pastry tightly from one end to the other.

Cut and Bake

Slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. You can also brush the top of the pinwheels with an egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden color.

Serving Suggestions

These baked spinach pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Consider serving them with a tangy tzatziki sauce or a rich garlic aioli for an added flavor dimension. If you're hosting a larger gathering, placing a small bowl of marinara sauce on the side can create an enjoyable dipping experience reminiscent of pizza. Presentation matters, so arrange them neatly on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

To elevate your Super Bowl spread, serve these pinwheels alongside other finger foods such as chicken wings or veggie platters. Their cheesy spinach filling complements savory dishes beautifully, making them a well-rounded option for snack lovers. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also offer varying flavors of pinwheels using different fillings like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For those busy game day mornings, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble your pinwheels. This not only saves time but enhances the overall flavor as the ingredients meld together. When you’re ready, roll out the pastry, fill, and bake right before your guests arrive for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Leftover pinwheels, if any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked pinwheels. Arrange them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and keep them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just make sure to separate them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen.

→ What can I serve with the pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with a variety of dips such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy jalapeño dip.

→ What if I can’t find puff pastry?

You could substitute with tortilla wraps or phyllo dough, although the texture will be slightly different.