Fiesta Taco Pinwheels Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add minced garlic, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Remove from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly. Stir in shredded cheese and cilantro if using.
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the pastry.
Carefully roll the pastry into a log, starting from one edge, to create a pinwheel shape.
Slice the log into ½–inch thick pinwheels and place them on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
Brush the tops with beaten egg to create a golden, glossy finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and cooked through.
Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream if desired.

Serving and Storage

Serve Taco Pinwheels warm for the best flavor and flaky texture. They’re ideal as an appetizer at parties or a snack for game day gatherings. Pair them with dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an added burst of flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Tips

Ensure the puff pastry is cold before rolling to maintain flakiness.

Drain excess fat from the beef to prevent soggy pinwheels.

Customize the filling with your favorite taco ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or black beans.

Brush with egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish on the pastry.

Slice evenly to ensure consistent baking of all pinwheels.

Conclusion

Fiesta Taco Pinwheels are a simple yet impressive appetizer that delivers all the classic taco flavors in a bite-sized, flaky pastry. Quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining, this recipe combines convenience with deliciousness. Whether it’s for a party, family snack, or casual get-together, these pinwheels are sure to become a favorite. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing taste make them a must-have in your recipe collection.

FAQ

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I prepare the pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble them and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them unbaked and bake straight from frozen when ready.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine. Freshly shredded cheese may melt more smoothly but either option works well.

How spicy are these pinwheels?

The recipe has mild taco seasoning by default. Adjust chili powder or add jalapeños to increase spiciness according to your preference.

Can I use tortillas instead of puff pastry?

You can, but the texture will differ. Tortilla pinwheels are softer and less flaky, creating a different style of appetizer.