Baked Taco Pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Taco Pinwheels are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The seasoned ground beef, combined with fresh onions and parsley, is wrapped in flour tortillas, then baked to golden perfection. These pinwheels are crispy on the outside and packed with delicious taco flavors on the inside. With the option to add cheese, black beans, bell peppers, and even jalapeños, you can customize them to suit your taste. Serve with your favorite dips like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for the perfect bite-sized treat!

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
1 small onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend for extra cheesiness)
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (for added texture)
½ cup diced bell pepper (for extra color and sweetness)
1–2 teaspoons jalapeño, finely chopped (for a little heat)

For Assembling:

4–5 large flour tortillas
Olive oil or melted butter for brushing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).

2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, taco seasoning, chopped onion, and parsley. Mix until everything is evenly blended. If you’re adding optional ingredients like jalapeños or bell pepper, mix them in at this point.

3. Assemble the Pinwheels:

Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface.
Spread a thin, even layer of the beef mixture all the way to the edges of the tortilla.
For an extra cheesy bite, sprinkle a little shredded cheese and some black beans over the beef mixture before rolling.

4. Roll & Slice:

Roll the tortilla up tightly from one end to the other.
Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1–1.5 inch thick rounds.

5. Bake:

Arrange the pinwheels flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the beef is fully cooked and the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve:

Serve the pinwheels warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. For an extra flair, sprinkle with more chopped parsley or a little lime zest.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 22 minutes

• Total Time: 37 minutes

Tips & Variations

• Meat Alternatives: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version of the pinwheels.

• Extra Crunch: Add a handful of crushed tortilla chips inside the pinwheels for a fun, crunchy texture.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the pinwheels in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving for a quick and easy appetizer or meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in a toaster oven until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas, whole wheat, or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any alternative tortillas you use.

2. Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or beans as the filling to make these pinwheels vegetarian. Add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for more texture.

3. Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at 450°F (232°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Can I make these spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeños or increasing the amount of sriracha or chili powder in the beef mixture.

5. Can I add other ingredients to the beef mixture?

Absolutely! You can add black olives, corn, or even cooked rice to the beef mixture to make these pinwheels even more filling and flavorful.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I bake the pinwheels on a wire rack?

Yes, you can place the pinwheels on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow heat to circulate evenly and make the pinwheels even crispier.

8. How can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?

Simply swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. Can I make these pinwheels in advance and reheat them?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake them when ready to serve. They also reheat well in the oven.

10. How do I know when the pinwheels are done baking?

The pinwheels are done when the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the beef inside is fully cooked. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

Baked Taco Pinwheels are the perfect mix of crispy, savory, and cheesy, making them a great snack, appetizer, or light meal. With just a few simple ingredients and customization options, they’re easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dinner, these pinwheels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious and fun meal everyone will love!

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