How to Make Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels: A Delicious and Easy Meal

Pesto Steak Pinwheels are a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for a dinner party or even a casual weeknight meal. These steak rolls are packed with layers of flavor, featuring homemade pesto, prosciutto, and melted cheese, all rolled up in tender skirt steak. If you’re a fan of steak recipes and love trying out new recipes, this dish is a must-try.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making skirt steak pinwheels using a delicious homemade pesto and fresh ingredients. Let’s dive into this easy meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

For the Steak:

  • 2 pounds of skirt steak
  • 8 slices of provolone cheese
  • Prosciutto
  • 2 tbsp steak seasoning
  • Butcher’s twine or kitchen twine

For the Homemade Pesto:

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 3 tbsp pine nuts
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
Homemade pesto ingredients.
Photos from this recipe are from Brittany Scott (Instagram: @the_salted_bite)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Homemade Pesto

Start by making a fresh and flavorful homemade pesto. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil and lemon juice until a smooth consistency is achieved. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.

Homemade pesto sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Skirt Steak

Lay the skirt steak flat on a cutting board. To ensure an even thickness, cover the steak with plastic wrap or parchment paper, then use a meat mallet or heavy mallet to pound it flat. This step helps to tenderize the meat and makes it easier to roll.

Once the steak is flattened, season the top of the steak with steak seasoning. This will enhance the flavor and create a nice crust when cooked.

skirt steak

Step 3: Assemble the Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

Spread a generous layer of the homemade pesto evenly over the side of the skirt steak. Be sure to add a generous amount as this is where a lot of the flavor comes through in this recipe.

Pesto spread on the inside of skirt steak.

Next, lay a single layer of prosciutto over the pesto, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will help enclose the pesto, locking in all of the flavor during the cook.

Prosciutto on the inside of skirt steak.

Add a layer of provolone cheese on top of the prosciutto ensuring there is a slice on each side so that the cheese is spread evenly.

Provolone cheese stuffed inside skirt steak pinwheels.

Step 4: Roll and Secure

Starting from the side of the skirt steak, tightly roll it up into a pinwheel shape. Use butcher’s twine or kitchen twineto secure the roll at 2-inch intervals. This will keep the filling in place while cooking.

Pest steak pinwheels rolled up in butcher twine.

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut between each twine section to create smaller pinwheels. Each pinwheel should be about 1.5 inches thick.

Grilled pesto steak pinwheels.

Step 5: Cook the Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

Heat a griddle or hot side of the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Pesto Steak Pinwheels on the griddle.
  • Sear the steak pinwheels for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms.
  • Reduce to medium heat and continue flipping every 2 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (for medium-rare) in the deepest part of the pinwheel. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Pest Skirt Steak Pinwheels seared on a griddle.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the pinwheels to a plate and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Slice into the pinwheels and serve them hot! These pesto steak pinwheels pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a low-temperature oven or air fryer to maintain their texture.

Customizing Your Steak Pinwheels

One of the best parts about making flank steak pinwheels is how versatile they are. You can try different fillings, such as:

  • Add slices of mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of provolone
  • Stuff the inside with cream cheese for a creamy twist
  • Roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness

Final Thoughts on Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

Pesto Steak Pinwheels are an excellent choice if you’re looking for delicious recipes that are packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or just want to try something new, these steak rolls are guaranteed to impress. With a nice crust, rich pesto, and melted cheese, this dish is truly irresistible.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience. Happy cooking!

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Pesto skirt steak pinwheels

Pesto Skirt Steak Pinwheels

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Pesto skirt steak pinwheels are a great way to upgrade steak night! Stuffed with homemade pesto, provolone cheese and prosciutto.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 45 steak pinwheels 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb skirt steak
  • 8 slices Provolone cheese slices 
  • 8 slices of Prosciutto
  • 2 tbsp steak seasoning 

Homemade Pesto

  • 1 cup of Basil leaves
  • 3 tbsp Pine nuts
  • 3 cloves minced garlic 
  • ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Make pesto by combining the basil, pine nuts, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper in a food processor. Run the food processor and slowly pour in olive oil until combined
  2. Roll skirt steak out then pound it flat with the flat side of a meat cleaver to ensure the meat thickness is even.
  3. Season the meat with a steak rub then spread pesto directly on the top side of the skirt steak.
  4. Add a layer of prosciutto so that it covers all of the pesto. Add a layer of provolone cheese on top of the prosciutto.
  5. Tightly roll up the skirt steak then secure it with butcher’s twine every 2 inches.
  6. Cut individual pinwheels by cutting in the middle each piece of secured twine. Season the outside with steak rub.
  7. Place pinwheels on a hot, oiled griddle over high heat for 3-4 minutes each side  so there is a good sear.
  8. Reduce the heat to a medium low heat then flip every 2 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135F in the deepest part of the pinwheel.
  9. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes then slice in and enjoy!
  • Author: Nick Nesgoda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

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