Horseradish Roast Beef Pinwheels are an easy and flavorful appetizer, perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a quick snack. The combination of creamy horseradish spread, savory roast beef, and soft flour tortillas creates a delicious bite-sized roll-up that is simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just a few simple steps with minimal prep time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, potlucks, or as a casual snack.
- Bold and Savory Flavor – The horseradish adds a subtle kick that complements the roast beef.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These pinwheels can be made in advance, making party prep effortless.
- Customizable – Easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz thinly sliced roast beef
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Spread
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Pinwheels
- Lay the flour tortillas flat and spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each one.
- Evenly distribute the thinly sliced roast beef over the spread.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly to form a log shape. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Slice & Serve
- Unwrap the chilled tortilla rolls and use a sharp knife to slice them into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 24 pinwheels
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cream cheese mixture.
- Cheesy Twist – Mix shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese into the cream cheese spread for extra richness.
- Turkey Pinwheels – Swap roast beef for turkey slices for a milder flavor.
- Vegetarian Option – Use grilled vegetables or spinach in place of the roast beef.
- Crunchy Addition – Add sliced pickles or crispy fried onions for extra texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare and chill the rolled tortillas up to 24 hours in advance. Slice just before serving.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese mixture may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels the night before?
Yes! Simply prepare, roll, and wrap the tortillas in plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight and slice before serving.
How do I prevent my pinwheels from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling with spread and layer drier ingredients (like lettuce or cheese) between the spread and roast beef.
What is the best way to slice pinwheels cleanly?
Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Can I use different tortillas?
Yes, you can use whole wheat, spinach, or low-carb tortillas for variation.
What can I serve with these pinwheels?
Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch, horseradish mayo, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
Can I add extra seasonings?
Absolutely! Try adding smoked paprika, onion powder, or fresh chives for more depth.
What if I don’t like horseradish?
You can reduce or omit the horseradish and replace it with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Are these pinwheels good for meal prep?
Yes, they are great for meal prep and can be packed in lunches or served as a quick snack.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.
What is the best way to transport pinwheels to a party?
Store them in a sealed container, and place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Horseradish Roast Beef Pinwheels are a simple yet flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Their creamy, tangy filling combined with savory roast beef makes them a standout addition to any party platter. Easy to prepare ahead of time and endlessly customizable, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit.
