Classic German Beef Rouladen

Classic German Beef Rouladen is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender beef rolls filled with mustard, bacon, onions, and pickles, then slow-cooked in a rich mushroom gravy. This beloved comfort food is a staple in traditional German cuisine, often served with mashed potatoes or spaetzle for a truly satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic German Flavor – A traditional dish with deep, rich flavors.
• Tender, Slow-Cooked Beef – The beef becomes incredibly soft and flavorful as it simmers.
• Savory Filling – A delicious combination of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles.
• Rich Mushroom Gravy – The sauce is infused with red wine and beef broth for a deep, comforting taste.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – A great dish for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rouladen:

• Thin slices of beef (sirloin or top round, about ¼-inch thick)
• Dijon mustard
• Bacon slices
• Small onion (thinly sliced)
• Small dill pickles (sliced lengthwise)
• Salt and black pepper
• Vegetable oil

For the Mushroom Gravy:

• Beef broth
• Red wine (optional)
• Mushrooms (sliced)
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cornstarch (mixed with water for thickening)
• Butter

Directions

Prepare the Rouladen:

1. Lay out the beef slices and spread Dijon mustard evenly on each. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Place a slice of bacon, some onion slices, and a pickle on each piece of beef. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Sear the Rouladen:

3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the beef rolls on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Make the Gravy:

4. In the same pan, add butter and sauté mushrooms until softened.
5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return the beef rolls to the pan. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours until tender.

Thicken the Sauce:

7. Remove the rouladen and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Stir until the gravy thickens.
8. Return the rouladen to the pan and coat them in the sauce.
9. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or spaetzle. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Cheesy Rouladen – Add a slice of Swiss cheese inside each beef roll for a creamy, rich twist.
• Spicy Version – Use spicy brown mustard and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Vegetable-Filled Rouladen – Add thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers inside the rolls for extra flavor.
• Slow Cooker Rouladen – After searing, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
• Dairy-Free Option – Replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the rouladen tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little broth if needed. You can also microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for rouladen?

Thin slices of top round or sirloin work best, as they become tender when slow-cooked.

Can I make rouladen ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and sear the rouladen in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.

Do I have to use pickles?

Pickles are traditional, but you can omit them or substitute with roasted red peppers for a different flavor.

What side dishes go well with rouladen?

Mashed potatoes, spaetzle, red cabbage, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices.

Can I cook rouladen in the oven?

Yes, after searing, place them in a covered oven-safe dish with the gravy and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 1.5 hours.

Is red wine necessary for the gravy?

No, but it adds depth to the flavor. You can substitute it with extra beef broth.

How do I keep the beef from unrolling?

Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the rolls secure while cooking.

Can I make rouladen without bacon?

Yes, but bacon adds extra flavor. You can replace it with a slice of smoked ham for a similar effect.

How do I thicken the gravy without cornstarch?

You can use flour instead—simply mix a tablespoon of flour with butter and stir it into the sauce.

Is rouladen a holiday dish in Germany?

Yes, it is often served during festive occasions like Christmas and family gatherings.

Conclusion

Classic German Beef Rouladen is a rich and comforting dish that brings together tender beef, a flavorful filling, and a delicious mushroom gravy. Whether served with spaetzle, mashed potatoes, or red cabbage, this traditional German favorite is sure to become a family favorite. Try it for your next hearty dinner and enjoy a taste of authentic German cuisine.