Taco Pinwheels

Taco Pinwheels are a flavorful twist on a weeknight classic!

As a chef instructor with over a decade of experience teaching kids to cook, I’ve witnessed firsthand the joy and excitement that comes from discovering new flavors and mastering culinary techniques. One of our all-time favorite recipes that have captured the hearts and taste buds of both children and grown-ups is the delectable Taco Pinwheels. This fun and creative twist on a classic dish combines the familiar, mouthwatering taste of tacos with the buttery, flaky goodness of puff pastry, all rolled up into a visually appealing pinwheel. With its captivating presentation, customizable ingredients, and easy-to-follow steps, Taco Pinwheels are the perfect recipe to bring families together in the kitchen, creating delightful memories and scrumptious meals that everyone will adore. So, gather your little chefs, and let’s embark on this delicious culinary adventure together!

Who is this Recipe For?

Taco Pinwheels are perfect for anyone who loves the savory, spicy flavors of tacos but wants to try something new. This dish is also a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a versatile recipe that can be customized to their taste preferences. The recipe we’re sharing today is a great starting point, but feel free to get creative with your choice of meat, cheese, and other toppings to make this dish truly your own.

Why You’ll Love Taco Pinwheels

There are several reasons why Taco Pinwheels will quickly become a favorite in your household:

1. Flavor-packed: This dish is bursting with the flavors you know and love from classic tacos, all wrapped up in a buttery, flaky puff pastry.
2. Versatile: Taco Pinwheels can be served as appetizers or as a main course, making them perfect for any occasion.
3. Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, such as using different types of meat or opting for a vegetarian version.
4. Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, impressive dish that everyone will love.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make Taco Pinwheels, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Parchment lined baking sheet
• 8×8 or 9×13 baking dish (for dinner portion)
• Rolling pin
• Serrated knife
• Non-stick spray

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Taco Pinwheels:

• 2 pounds ground beef (turkey or chicken)
• 1 packet Taco Bell Original Seasoning (or your favorite taco mix)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 8 oz salsa (we used mango salsa)
• 2 sheets of puff pastry, cold
• 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• Optional Garnishes: salsa, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro

Process

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Prepare a baking sheet by lining with non stick spray

Brown the meat and drain and return to the pain

Add in the minced garlic and cook about 1-2 mins until well distributed.

Add in the taco seasoning packet and water.  Mix well

Add in the salsa and let cook for about 2-3 mins, until well incorporated, set to the side.

Unfold the puff pastry on a flat surface.  Gently roll with a rolling pin thin out just a little (this step can be omitted).

Spread the meat mixture evenly on the dough.

Sprinkle the cheese over top.

If you like your tacos extra cheesey, add cheese first, then meat, then top with more cheese.

Starting at the long edge closest to you, begin to roll up the dough (cinnamon bun- style).

Roll it up tightly. Seal the edge all along the roll.

Use a serrated knife to cut the roll evenly into one-inch slices for appetizer size and 2 inch slices for dinner portion sizes.

Place the taco pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Bake the pinwheels for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown, for dinner sized they will need to cook 25-30min

Serve hot with your favorite toppings, mexican rice or chips and salsa

Tips, Shortcuts, and Recipe Swaps

To make Taco Pinwheels even more amazing, consider these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Short on time? Use pre-cooked, seasoned taco meat to save time in the kitchen.
2. Vegetarian? Swap the meat for a combination of black beans, corn, and sautéed onions and peppers.
3. Get creative with the cheese: Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, to add even more flavor to your pinwheels.
4. Prevent soggy pastry: Make sure your meat mixture isn’t too wet, as this can cause the puff pastry to become soggy.
5. Make-ahead: Prepare the pinwheels up to the slicing step, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This can save you time and help you get a head start on party prep.

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