If you are looking for a crowd-pleaser that combines savory roast beef, melty cheese, and a buttery, flaky crust, the French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful appetizer or snack brings together tender, thinly sliced roast beef rolled inside crescent dough, with layers of cheese and a subtle punch of Dijon mustard, all baked to golden perfection. The accompanying homemade au jus dipping sauce takes it to the next level, making each bite irresistibly juicy and flavorful. Whether for game day, a party, or a cozy night in, these pinwheels bring both elegance and comfort wrapped into one delicious package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet key ingredients is what makes this French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe so approachable and satisfying. Each element plays an essential role from the buttery crescent dough to the robust roast beef, the melty cheese, and the aromatic herbs, resulting in a balanced flavor profile and gorgeous texture.
- Crescent roll dough (8 oz can): This creates the flaky, buttery base that holds the filling together perfectly.
- Thinly sliced roast beef (1/2 pound): Provides tender, savory meatiness that is the star of this dish.
- Shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy, melty goodness that complements the beef beautifully.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings a tangy kick that brightens the flavors inside each pinwheel.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle but essential savory punch throughout.
- Dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers an earthy aroma and subtle herbal note when sprinkled on top.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Brushes on the dough for a golden, rich finish.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Forms the base for the flavorful au jus dipping sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and umami to the au jus, intensifying the meaty flavor.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances sweetness and complexity in the dip.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and lift all the flavors.
How to Make French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, unroll the crescent roll dough and press all the seams together to form one large rectangle—that way, your pinwheels bake evenly and hold their shape beautifully.
Step 2: Layer the Flavors
Spread a thin, even layer of Dijon mustard over the entire rectangle of dough. This sharp, tangy spread will cut through the richness of the cheese and beef. Then layer the thinly sliced roast beef evenly on top, followed by a generous sprinkling of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese for that ooey-gooey melty texture.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one of the long edges, creating a long log. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels. The tight rolling ensures each bite has a perfect spiral of beef and cheese wrapped inside buttery dough.
Step 4: Add Final Touches and Bake
Arrange the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each pinwheel generously with melted butter to encourage browning and add flavor. Sprinkle with garlic powder and dried rosemary if you are using it, infusing the tops with a lovely savory aroma as they bake. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
Step 5: Prepare the Au Jus
While your pinwheels bake, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This simple sauce is crucial for dipping and provides an extra layer of sumptuousness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels straight from the oven alongside small cups or bowls of the hot au jus. The combination of flaky pastry, savory beef, gooey cheese, and dipping sauce makes it impossible to eat just one!
How to Serve French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as finely chopped parsley or thyme add a vibrant green pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast. A sprinkle of coarse sea salt over the pinwheels just out of the oven can elevate the savory notes beautifully. You could also provide a side of grainy mustard for guests who want an extra tangy punch.
Side Dishes
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or crunchy pickles to balance the richness. A light slaw with a bright vinaigrette creates refreshing acidity, making the meal feel even more special without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the pinwheels on a large platter surrounded by small dipping bowls of au jus. You can even skewer a few pinwheels with decorative toothpicks for easy grab-and-go style snacking. Serving them alongside mini sandwich rolls and an assortment of mustards creates an elegant French Dip-themed spread that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling completely, store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making them just as tasty if not more so the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked pinwheels by placing them on a parchment-lined tray in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or container. Bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for an easy, convenient snack anytime.
Reheating
Reheat pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes to regain their flaky texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, to keep the dough crisp and fresh. Warm your au jus separately on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone or mozzarella works beautifully, you can substitute with Swiss, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses depending on your taste preferences and what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to use crescent roll dough?
Crescent roll dough is ideal because it bakes up flaky and buttery quickly. However, puff pastry could be an elegant alternative if you want a slightly different texture and appearance.
How spicy is the French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe?
This recipe is mild with just a hint of tang from the Dijon mustard. If you love spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sprinkle some cayenne on top before baking.
Can I prepare the pinwheels ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the pinwheels and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prep without sacrificing freshness.
What is the best way to serve the au jus?
Serve the au jus warm in small bowls or cups for easy dipping. It’s essential to keep it heated through the meal so each bite of pinwheel dipped into the rich broth stays delicious.
Final Thoughts
The French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves delicious, bold flavors wrapped in buttery goodness. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat and impressive enough for guests, making it one of my all-time favorite hands-on comfort snacks. I can’t wait for you to try making these pinwheels and enjoy every savory bite as much as I do!
Print
French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These French Dip Roast Beef Pinwheels are a deliciously savory appetizer or snack featuring tender roast beef and melted cheese rolled in flaky crescent dough, baked to golden perfection, and served with a flavorful homemade au jus for dipping. Perfect for parties or a tasty meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pinwheels
- 1 (8 oz) can crescent roll dough
- 1/2 pound (225g) thinly sliced roast beef
- 1 cup (100g) shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Au Jus
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the pinwheels.
- Prepare Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press the seams together firmly to form one solid rectangle, ensuring it doesn’t separate while rolling.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly spread the Dijon mustard over the dough surface, then layer evenly with the thinly sliced roast beef followed by the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels, keeping the layers intact.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with garlic powder and dried rosemary for extra flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Make Au Jus: While the pinwheels bake, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Serve: Remove pinwheels from the oven and serve warm alongside the au jus for dipping to enjoy the classic French Dip flavor in a fun, bite-sized form.
Notes
- For extra moisture in the rolls, consider adding a light spread of butter before layering roast beef.
- Substitute provolone with mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor or use cheddar for a sharper taste.
- The au jus can be made ahead and reheated when ready to serve.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crescent roll dough if available.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
