If you’re in the mood for a bite-sized twist on a classic sandwich, these French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are about to become your new favorite party trick. Picture flaky, golden puff pastry wrapped around juicy roast beef, melty provolone, and sweet caramelized onions, all served with a rich, savory au jus for dunking. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, whipping up a special snack, or simply craving something cozy, French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels deliver bold flavors, irresistible textures, and serious crowd-pleasing power in every swirl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how these simple components come together to create something so impressive. Each element in French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels plays a starring role, from the flaky pastry to the savory beef and the luscious cheese.
- Puff Pastry: This is the secret to those buttery, crisp, and flaky layers—make sure it’s thawed for easy handling.
- Deli Roast Beef: Thinly sliced and savory, roast beef brings the signature French dip flavor and hearty bite.
- Provolone Cheese: Its gooey melt and mild, creamy taste perfectly complement the beef without overpowering it.
- Caramelized Onions: These add a touch of sweetness and depth—take your time to get them nice and golden.
- Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle gives a subtle, aromatic background that ties everything together.
- Egg (for egg wash): Brushing the tops ensures a glossy, beautiful finish on your pinwheels.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A pop of green for color and freshness if you’re feeling fancy.
- Beef Broth: The backbone of your rich, savory dipping sauce—use a good quality broth for best results.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of tang to the au jus.
- Soy Sauce: A little splash amps up the savoriness of your dip.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
How to Make French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry and Baking Sheet
Start your adventure by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a 10×12-inch rectangle. This step sets the stage for those beautiful, even spirals and ensures your pinwheels bake up golden and crisp.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
Evenly layer the roast beef slices, shredded provolone cheese, and caramelized onions over the pastry, making sure to leave a 1-inch border on one long side. This little space is key for sealing the roll later. Sprinkle everything with garlic powder, salt, and pepper so every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Now comes the fun part—rolling! Starting from the long side opposite your border, tightly roll the pastry into a snug log, tucking the fillings in as you go. Brush the exposed edge with beaten egg to seal it shut, then use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels. Place each one cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space around them.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Give the tops of your pinwheels a generous brush with the remaining egg wash for that irresistible glossy finish. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed, golden, and just begging to be eaten.
Step 5: Make the Au Jus
While the pinwheels bake, whip up your dipping sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of pepper. Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting all those savory flavors meld. Serve the au jus warm alongside your French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels for dunking perfection.
How to Serve French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels with freshly chopped parsley or even a little extra shredded cheese right when they come out of the oven. The green pop brightens up the look, while the added cheese amps up the indulgence. If you’re feeling extra playful, a tiny dollop of horseradish cream on the side can really wake up the flavors.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels shine on their own, but they’re also fantastic with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or a bowl of tangy coleslaw. If you’re serving them as part of a party spread, think chips, pickles, and maybe some marinated olives to round things out. They’re the star, but a few simple sides make the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, arrange the French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels in a spiral pattern on a wooden board with the warm au jus in the center for easy dipping. You can also skewer them with cocktail picks for a fun appetizer display, or stack them high on a platter for a dramatic, snackable centerpiece. No matter how you serve them, they’re sure to disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow wind up with leftovers (rare, but it happens!), store the pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the au jus in a separate sealed jar so everything stays fresh and ready for round two.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels for later. After baking, let them cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between the layers. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just remember to freeze the au jus separately.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and crisp, about 10 minutes. The oven keeps the pastry flaky, while the microwave can sometimes make them soggy. Warm the au jus in a saucepan or microwave, and you’re all set for a quick, delicious snack.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer
Absolutely! While provolone melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, Swiss cheese or even mozzarella make lovely substitutes, each adding its own twist to the classic French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels.
What if I don’t have puff pastry?
No worries—you can use crescent roll dough for a softer, more pillowy pinwheel. The texture will be different but still delicious and satisfying.
How do I caramelize onions quickly?
If you’re short on time, slice your onions thin and cook them over medium heat with a pinch of salt and a dash of sugar. Stir occasionally; they’ll turn soft and golden in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them (unbaked) on a tray, covered, for up to a day. When ready, simply brush with egg wash and bake fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Is the au jus necessary?
While the pinwheels are tasty enough on their own, the warm, savory au jus is what truly makes them French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels. It adds moisture, richness, and that authentic French dip experience with every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something a little special, French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are the way to go. They’re easy, fun, and packed with flavor—plus, that dunk in the savory au jus is pure magic. Give them a try and watch them disappear!
Print
French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are a savory and elegant appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with thinly sliced deli roast beef, melted provolone cheese, and caramelized onions. These bite-sized pinwheels are seasoned with garlic powder and served warm with a flavorful beef broth dipping sauce infused with Worcestershire and soy sauces. Perfect for parties and gatherings, these pinwheels offer a gourmet twist on the classic French dip sandwich.
Ingredients
Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Dipping Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a 10×12-inch rectangle.
- Layer Fillings: Evenly layer the thinly sliced roast beef, shredded provolone cheese, and caramelized onions over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on one long side. Sprinkle the filling with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the opposite long side, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Brush the edge with the beaten egg to seal the roll. Slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Bake the pinwheels for 18–20 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Make Dipping Sauce: While the pinwheels bake, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and keep warm.
- Serve: Remove pinwheels from the oven and optionally sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with the beef broth dipping sauce alongside.
Notes
- For a richer au jus, add a splash of red wine or a beef bouillon cube to the dipping sauce.
- You may substitute Swiss cheese for provolone for a different cheesy flavor.
- Using crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry results in a softer texture in the pinwheels.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
