Roast beef pinwheels are not just an appetizer; they are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight, a sports gathering, or a relaxing picnic, these roast beef pinwheels will be delicious and satisfying. These pinwheels are not only easy to transport but also incredibly simple to make. The recipe combines a creamy cream cheese base with homemade mayonnaise, flavored with garlic, horseradish, onion, and freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. By tightly wrapping tender roast beef and vibrant veggies in a flour tortilla and refrigerating, you allow the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring they hold their shape.
Be sure to use a high-quality deli roast beef for a tender meat. Even better, if planning ahead, try making the deli style roast beef yourself. A large roast can be baked, sliced, and frozen for up to three months for quick, convenient pinwheels or sandwiches to enjoy.
Roast Beef Pinwheels Ingredients and Health Benefits
These pinwheels are homemade, free of preservatives, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. By choosing these wholesome ingredients, you’re not only making delicious roast beef pinwheels, but you’re also investing in a healthy option that prioritizes your well-being. Enjoy these perfect pinwheels for their taste and their benefits!
Here is break down the ingredients and their incredible health benefits:
Cream cheese:
A key component of the pinwheels, cream cheese provides a luscious texture that keeps the tortilla tightly rolled. It’s rich in vitamin A, promoting healthy vision and immune function. It also has low lactose content, making it a fantastic choice for those who are mildly lactose intolerant.
Mayonnaise:
Homemade mayonnaise is used to make the cream cheese a little more creamy and easier to spread. Using this homemade version eliminates the use of highly processed oils and preservatives that are commonly found in store bought mayonnaise. Using high-quality olive oil also provides beneficial monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
Horseradish:
A small amount of horseradish adds a delightful spicy kick along with a bounty of health benefits. Horseradish is a nutrient-rich root vegetable known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains sinigrin, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Horseradish is also high in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, it has antibacterial properties that may help fight infections. Some studies suggest that horseradish may have cancer-fighting benefits due to its glucosinolates, which support detoxification. Its strong, spicy flavor can also help clear sinuses and improve digestion.
Black pepper:
Black pepper is added to season the creamy base. It is packed with antioxidants, particularly piperine, which helps combat free radicals and supports overall health. It has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing joint pain and swelling. Black pepper may also enhance nutrient absorption, improving the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals like calcium and selenium. Additionally, it can support digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Some studies suggest it may benefit brain health, potentially aiding memory and cognitive function.
Garlic:
Garlic adds a bold flavor. It is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly allicin, which supports heart health and boosts immunity. It may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and fight infections. Garlic also contains vitamin C, B6, and manganese, contributing to overall wellness. Some studies suggest it may have cancer-fighting properties.
Red onion:
The addition of a bit of finely diced red onions gives the base a mildly sweet yet sharp and pungent flavor. These onions are loaded with antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which combats inflammation and supports heart health. Their vitamin C content boosts immunity, while sulfur compounds can aid digestion.
Sharp Cheddar:
Sharp cheddar has a bold, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor with a rich, creamy texture. Its aging process intensifies its taste, making it more complex and robust compared to mild cheddar. Sharp cheddar is a good source of calcium, which supports bone health, and vitamin K2, which helps prevent calcium buildup in arteries. It also contains protein, aiding muscle maintenance, and probiotics, which promote gut health.
Romaine lettuce:
Romaine lettuce gives the pinwheels a crunchy, crisp, slightly sweet bite. It is low in calories but rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting vision, immunity, and bone health. Romaine consists of 95% water, aiding hydration, and contains fiber, which promotes digestion and weight management. Additionally, its antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Roma tomato:
These tomatoes contribute a mildly sweet, tangy flavor, packed with vitamins and nutrients. Their dense flesh and low moisture content enhance their rich taste. Roma tomatoes are packed with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, supporting immunity, heart health, and digestion. They are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Their low-calorie profile makes them a great addition to a balanced diet.
Roast beef:
Deli roast beef has a savory, slightly salty, and umami-rich flavor with a tender, juicy texture. It is a good source of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. Beef contains iron, which helps maintain energy levels and prevent anemia, and zinc, which boosts immunity. Additionally, it provides B vitamins, essential for metabolism and brain function. Choosing low-sodium, nitrate-free, high quality options can make it a healthier choice.
Flour tortillas:
Flour tortillas hold the pinwheels together. They have a soft, slightly chewy texture with a mild, buttery flavor. They provide carbohydrates to fuel your day, along with beneficial amounts of protein and fiber. Rich in iron and calcium, flour tortillas contribute to strong bone health as well. By making them at home, you can avoid unnecessary food additives and enjoy a freshness that store-bought options can’t match.
Preparation, Servings, and Storage
Roast beef pinwheels are simple to prepare, require no cooking, and take about 45 minutes, with 30 minutes of that being chill time. One batch yields 36 pinwheels or about 9 servings. They are great for parties, a light meal, or even meal prepping. The pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them convenient for a quick bite.

Roast beef Pinwheels
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Equipment
- large cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 oz package Cream cheese
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Horseradish sauce
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1/4 cup Red onion, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Romaine lettuce
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- 1 pound Deli Roast beef
- 6 Flour tortillas
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese in a mixing bowl until light and airy.
- Add the mayonnaise, horseradish, garlic, and black pepper. Beat again to combine.
- Using a spatula, fold the diced onion and cheese into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla
- Lay one piece of romaine lettuce down the center of each tortilla.
- Spread the diced tomatoes onto each lettuce leaf.
- Add the roast beef on top of the lettuce and tomatoes.
- Tightly roll the tortilla and wrap individually with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the rolled tortillas for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into 6 pinwheels.