Garlic & Herb Butter Mozzarella Pinwheels with Marinara
If you’re looking for an easy yet indulgent recipe to impress your family, these Garlic & Herb Butter Mozzarella Pinwheels are about to become your new go-to. They’re flaky, cheesy, and loaded with roasted garlic goodness that pairs perfectly with a side of marinara for dipping. Whether it’s a cozy family night, game day, or a casual gathering, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit.
As a busy mom with four school-aged kids, I know how valuable quick and satisfying recipes are. This dish brings restaurant-quality flavors to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get the kids involved—they’ll love rolling the dough and sprinkling the cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Easy to Make: Using store-bought pizza dough cuts prep time in half.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or switch up the cheese to make it your own.
• Kid-Friendly: These pinwheels are fun to make and eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pinwheels:
• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 head of garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme or basil
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
For the Marinara Dipping Sauce:
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Garlic
Roasting garlic takes these pinwheels to the next level. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for 35-40 minutes until golden and fragrant. Once cooled, squeeze out the cloves and mash them into a smooth paste.
2. Make the Herb Butter
In a bowl, combine the mashed roasted garlic, softened butter, parsley, oregano, and thyme. Stir until creamy and well blended.
3. Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roll the pizza dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×10 inches.
4. Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top, and add Parmesan if desired. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long edge. Pinch the seam to seal it shut.
5. Slice and Bake
Slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds and place them on the baking sheet, cut-side up. Brush the tops with melted butter for that golden finish. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
6. Prepare the Marinara
While the pinwheels bake, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Add Italian seasoning and minced garlic for an extra boost of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, garnish the pinwheels with fresh parsley and serve warm with the marinara sauce on the side.
Make It Your Own
Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:
• Add a kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Switch the cheese: Try provolone or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Go sweet: Swap the garlic herb butter for cinnamon sugar and cream cheese frosting for a dessert version!
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Moms
These pinwheels fit right into a busy mom’s life. They’re quick to prep, versatile, and guaranteed to make your kids say, “Wow, Mom!” Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table.
Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner alongside a crisp salad. Trust me, these pinwheels will have your family asking for seconds—and you’ll love how easy they are to make.
Let me know if you try this recipe! Share your creations on Instagram and tag me @withlove_tere so I can see your delicious pinwheels.
Happy cooking!
With love,
Tere
