Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional); 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making these Super Bowl Puff Pastry Pinwheels because they're not only delicious, but also incredibly easy to prepare. With a flaky pastry and a savory filling, they’ve become a go-to snack for our game day gatherings. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these pinwheels are sure to impress. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making them versatile and fun to create. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:40:09.294Z

When I first made these pinwheels, I was amazed at how quickly they vanished! There's something magical about the combination of flaky pastry and a flavorful filling that makes them irresistible. I decided to experiment with a mix of cheeses, herbs, and some spicy sausage, which created a unique flavor that really stands out during game day.

Furthermore, one of the best tips I've discovered is to let the puff pastry thaw slightly before rolling it out. This ensures that it maintains its flakiness and puffs beautifully in the oven. Trust me, your guests will be back for seconds when you present these delicious bites!

        Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
        Flaky pastry that's satisfying in every bite
Customizable fillings to suit every taste
Perfect for sharing during game day or parties

      

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Pinwheels

The key to achieving a flaky, crispy texture with your puff pastry pinwheels is ensuring the dough remains cold throughout the preparation process. If the pastry gets too warm while you're working with it, the layers may not puff up properly during baking. So, if you notice it becoming soft, pop it back into the fridge for a few minutes. Additionally, when rolling out the pastry, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking—and the ideal thickness is about 1/8 inch.

When rolling the pastry around the filling, it’s crucial to do so tightly, but not excessively, as you want to maintain the integrity of the filling. A tightly rolled log will produce more distinct pinwheel slices. If any filling spills out during rolling, don't worry; you can simply tuck it back in before slicing. A good tip is to use a sharp knife to cut the log, which prevents the filling from squishing out.

Ingredient Insights

While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for the cheese mix, feel free to experiment with other types of cheeses. Aged cheddar can add a sharpness that complements the savory sausage well. For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese for tanginess. If you want a lighter version, substitute low-fat cheese options without compromising flavor significantly; they will still melt well and contribute to that satisfying cheesy goodness.

The sautéing of sausage is optional but can greatly enhance the flavor profile of your pinwheels. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a medley of roasted vegetables. These alternatives will keep the texture engaging while providing different flavors that pair beautifully with the cheese filling.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is well combined for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut it into a rectangle if necessary.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, sausage (if using), green onions, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the filling mixture evenly over the puff pastry. Starting at one edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside.

Cut and Bake

Slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as spinach and feta or pesto and chicken for varied flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These pinwheels can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy game days. You can prepare the filling and roll the pastry the night before. Simply keep the rolled log wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just slice and proceed with the baking instructions. They can also be frozen before baking; slice the log and freeze the pinwheels on a baking sheet. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain that flaky texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry chewy rather than crisp.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive presentation, consider serving your pinwheels with a trio of dipping sauces. A zesty marinara, a creamy ranch, or a tangy mustard dip can elevate the flavor experience. Arrange them on a platter with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan for visual appeal. You can even twist a few finger foods like bruschetta into the mix to create an engaging appetizer spread.

These pinwheels also make for a delicious accompaniment to salads or soups. Their cheesy, savory goodness pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a hearty tomato soup, making for a delightful game day meal where everyone can snack while enjoying the action on screen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and keep them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for the sausage?

You can use any meat or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option. Also, try using more vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these pinwheels?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.