Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to make this easy toddler meal so you know what to have on hand and ready to go. You can make this easy dinner recipe for your family or try it as a kids lunch in under 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s easy to use nondairy cheeses to make this dairy-free as needed; you can pair it with a dip or sauce that your kids like; and you can even pack them in a thermos as a hot lunch Idea for preschool or school. But my favorite thing about this Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels recipe might be that they store so well. I can make extras and stash them into the freezer to warm through for a quick meal whenever we need it! (You may also like Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, Greek Yogurt Pizza Dough, Wraps for Kids, and my Top Ten Lunchbox Ideas.) Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Refrigerated crescent dough (or pizza dough): To make this super easy, I like to use crescent dough from the store. You can also use purchased or homemade pizza dough. The main difference is how long it takes to prep the dough. They bake similarly. Cream cheese: A thin layer of cream cheese over the dough adds moisture and richness to the pinwheels. Cheddar cheese: I like to use shredded cheddar cheese in this recipe for the cheesy texture. Broccoli: Lightly cooked broccoli, either the steam-in-the-bag variety or any leftover cooked broccoli, works here. Spices or herbs such as dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, or even pizza seasoning to add additional flavor as you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is an overview of how to make Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels so you know what to expect. Scroll down to the end of this post for the full information, including the times and amounts.
How to Store
Once cooled, you can store the Broccoli and Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on a heat-safe plate in the microwave or for 2-3 minutes in an air fryer at 325 degrees F. You can also place the cooled pinwheels into a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal. Freeze as a freezer meal for up to 6 months. To warm from frozen, place on a heat-safe plate and warm in 15-second increments in the microwave.
Best Tips for Success
Use store-bought crescent dough, Whole Wheat Pizza Dough, or store-bought pizza dough. Use steam-in-the-bag frozen broccoli and prepare it according to package directions. Or use any leftover cooked broccoli that you have on hand. Let the pinwheels cool for 2 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a plate to let the cheese cool briefly. Serve this as dinner, lunch, a snack, or an appetizer. Offer with a dip such as salsa, ranch, or another dressing or dip your kids like. If you have more broccoli to use, try my Cheesy Broccoli Rice. Serve with fresh fruit or simple sides such as a Green Smoothie for Kids, Baked Pears, Fruit Cups, Strawberry Juice, or Vanilla Milk.
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