Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Baked Spinach Pinwheels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 package of flour tortillas; 1 cup of cream cheese, softened; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove of garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup of sour cream; 1 tbsp of ranch seasoning mix; Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Ideas

I've always enjoyed creating fun and delicious appetizers, and these baked spinach pinwheels have become a staple at our Super Bowl gatherings. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, cheesy spinach filling, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, they’re so simple to make! I love that I can prepare them ahead of time and bake them right before my guests arrive, allowing me to enjoy the game instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:33:35.529Z

When I first made these baked spinach pinwheels, I was looking for an appetizer that would impress my guests without requiring too much effort. The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and fresh spinach rolled in a wrap creates a delicious bite-sized treat that pairs perfectly with any dipping sauce. As I rolled them up for the first time, I realized how versatile this recipe is; you can easily add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or cooked chicken for variations.

This past Super Bowl, I experimented with my baking time, discovering that a hotter oven gives them a lovely golden crispness while keeping the filling creamy. I can't stress enough the importance of letting them cool for a few minutes before serving; the flavors meld together beautifully that way. Each bite is a mix of textures and flavors that I just can't get enough of!

Why You'll Love These Pinwheels
Crispy, flaky exterior that contrasts with a creamy filling
Packed with nutrients, thanks to fresh spinach
Easy to customize: add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can greatly impact the flavor and texture of your baked spinach pinwheels. For instance, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged options can elevate the dish with a creamier texture and a richer taste. Additionally, fresh spinach is essential for the best nutritional profile and flavor; it should be vibrant green and free of any wilting or yellowing. If fresh spinach is unavailable, consider using frozen spinach, but be sure to thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture.

The cream cheese serves as the foundation for the filling, providing a creamy consistency that helps hold everything together. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese, adding a tangy note along with extra protein. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall flavor slightly, so taste-test your filling before assembling the pinwheels.

Perfecting Your Technique

Rolling the tortillas tightly is crucial for achieving well-formed pinwheels. Use a clean kitchen towel to assist in rolling; this can help maintain pressure without squishing the filling out. If you find the tortillas cracking during rolling, consider warming them briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, making them more pliable and easier to work with. An even roll also prevents uneven baking and ensures consistent flavor with each bite.

When slicing the rolled tortillas, using a sharp knife is key. A serrated knife can tear rather than slice, leading to messy pinwheels. Aim for even pressure and gentle sawing motions to create clean cuts, allowing each piece to showcase the beautiful swirl of spinach and cheese. If you have a little extra filling left over, don't hesitate to serve it on the side as an additional dip for your finished pinwheels.

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels

1 package of flour tortillas
1 cup of cream cheese, softened
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup of sour cream
1 tbsp of ranch seasoning mix
Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mozzarella, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully blended.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread the filling evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border. Roll the tortillas tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling stays inside.

Slice the Pinwheels

With a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into bite-sized pinwheels, about 1 inch thick.

Bake the Pinwheels

Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the pinwheels are baking, mix sour cream and ranch seasoning in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving with the dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious Super Bowl appetizer!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers into the filling. You can also adapt the spices to your liking, using chili flakes for a kick!

Storing and Reheating Pinwheels

If you want to make these pinwheels ahead of time, they can be prepared and rolled, then stored wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together while saving you time on game day. Just remember to slice them before baking for optimal crispness and ease of serving.

To reheat leftover pinwheels, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as this can turn the pinwheels soggy rather than crisp, diminishing their delightful texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the filling by incorporating different ingredients that suit your taste. For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. If you enjoy a heartier flavor, crumbled feta cheese or cooked bacon can bring a whole new dimension to the pinwheels. Just ensure that any additional ingredients are well-drained to maintain the integrity of the filling.

For a lighter option, you could swap some of the mozzarella cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative. This keeps the pinwheels creamy while accommodating vegans and those with dairy sensitivities. Pair the pinwheels with a zesty hummus dip to amplify the flavor without adding too many extra calories.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I use instead of tortillas?

You can use pita bread or lavash for a different taste and texture. Just ensure they can hold the filling well.

→ Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment! Cooked chicken, roasted vegetables, or different cheeses work well as substitutes.