Cheeseburger Pinwheel Bites

Cheeseburger pinwheel pizza bites transform those classic burger flavors into a bite sized snack that is perfect for sharing. The combination of seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese rolled up in pizza dough creates a satisfying mix of savory, tangy, and cheesy that always delights. Baking them in a muffin tin gives each pinwheel a golden crust and distinct shape that is elegant enough for parties but easy enough for weeknight dinners.

I first made these for a family game night and they disappeared fast. Now they’re a regular request because everyone loves the cheesy, meaty spiral and the little crunch from the sesame seeds on top.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein so you get a filling meal. Look for lean ground beef with a fresh bright red color.
• Diced yellow onions: Bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory meat. Choose onions that feel heavy and firm with no soft spots.
• Minced garlic: Gives the filling depth and aromatic warmth. Fresh is best, but firstclass refrigerated minced garlic works well for convenience.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Keep the filling juicy and tender. Go for lowsodium options with vibrant color to avoid overpowering salt.
• Worcestershire sauce: Gives that classic burger umami flavor. Pick a brand with minimal additives for a clean, rich taste.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy sharpness that lifts the flavors. Real Dijon mustard delivers the best punch.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Season the filling perfectly. Freshly ground pepper enhances aroma and flavor.
• Pizza dough: Acts as the chewy yet soft wrapper. Fresh dough is ideal but refrigerated dough works fine choose dough that feels elastic but not sticky.
• Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar cheese: Provides bold cheesy flavor and melts beautifully. Shredding your own cheese is worth the extra effort for the best texture.
• Olive oil: Ensures the tops brown nicely and adds richness with its extra virgin quality.
• Sesame seeds: Add a playful crunch and mimic a burger bun. Use fresh seeds to keep the flavor light and nutty.

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

Cook the ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat for about seven to nine minutes. Stir often to break the meat into small pieces and cook evenly. You want all the beef browned with no pink spots remaining. Taking your time here builds the flavor base essential for every bite.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix very well so the meat mixture is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to cook down until the liquid evaporates and the filling thickens. If any excess liquid remains drain carefully to avoid soggy dough later.

Prep the Muffin Tin and Dough:

While the filling cools slightly, preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a twelvecup muffin tin thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about twelve by fifteen inches. Aim to keep the dough thickness even so it cooks uniformly.

Assemble and Roll:

Spread the beef mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a half inch border around the edges to prevent filling leakage. Sprinkle about three quarters of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Starting from one of the shorter ends, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Keeping the roll snug helps maintain the swirl shape when sliced.

Slice and Arrange in Tin:

Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log into twelve even slices. Gently place each slice cut side up into the prepared muffin tin cups to showcase the beautiful spiral.

Top and Bake:

Brush the tops of the pinwheels with olive oil for a nice golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously to add crunch and that classic burger bun feel. Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes or until the tops turn golden brown.

Finish with Cheddar:

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on each warm pinwheel. Return the pan to the oven for two to three minutes until the cheese melts fully and gets bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

Let the pinwheels rest in the pan for a few minutes to firm up which makes them easier to remove without falling apart. Serve warm to enjoy gooey cheese and fresh dough with every bite.

Cheddar cheese is my absolute favorite component here. Its sharp tang cuts through the rich beef and holds its flavor even after baking. One of my fondest memories is when my youngest sprinkled the cheese on top for the first time and ended up eating more than he added. It’s those little moments in the kitchen that make this recipe truly special.

Storage Tips

Store your pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To refresh them, warm them in the oven or toaster oven which brings back the crispy edges and gooey cheese perfectly. If freezing, wrap each pinwheel individually and place them in a freezer safe bag. Reheat from frozen in a three hundred fifty degree oven until warmed through for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version keeping the flavor similar. Any sharp cheddar cheese works if you can’t find Cabot but shredding your own is key for smooth melting. Swap canned diced tomatoes with sun dried tomatoes for a sweeter twist. Store bought pizza dough is easy and convenient, but homemade dough adds extra flavor if you want to take a little extra time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cheesy pinwheels with crunchy pickles or small bowls of ketchup and mustard to lean into the cheeseburger theme. A fresh green salad with acidic vinaigrette balances the richness well. For entertaining, arrange on a platter with mini skewers so guests can grab and go easily.

These pinwheels are a crowd pleaser that are easy to make and perfect for sharing. They are great for parties, weeknight dinners, or packed lunches.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well and simplifies preparation without sacrificing flavor.

→ What cheese is best for these pinwheels?

Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor and excellent melting qualities.

→ How can I prevent sticking to the muffin tin?

Thoroughly spray the muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray before placing the pinwheels.

→ Can I prepare these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pinwheels and chill unbaked; bake when ready to maintain texture and taste.

→ Is freezing leftover pinwheels possible?

Absolutely, store baked pinwheels in an airtight container in the freezer and reheat in the oven until warm.