Beef Roulade

Prep: 30 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: German

Beef roulades wrapped with bacon and pickles, tenderized and slow-cooked to develop rich flavors, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 6 to 8 beef roulades
  • 6 to 8 bacon slices
  • 1 onion
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Tenderize the meat with a meat mallet.
  2. Sprinkle each side of the meat with salt and pepper.
  3. Spread some mustard on one side of the meat.
  4. Lay a strip of bacon on the meat.
  5. Cut pickles into julienne strips and place five or six strips on the bacon.
  6. Roll up the meat and secure with a toothpick at each end.
  7. Brown the onion and meat rolls in a large skillet.
  8. Add enough water to the skillet to cover the meat.
  9. Cook for 1.5 hours on medium heat, adding water as necessary to keep the meat covered.
  10. Serve with knödel or noodles.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef roulades in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have bacon, prosciutto or pancetta can be excellent substitutes. You can also add other fillings like sautéed mushrooms or cheese for variety. Make sure to brown the meat well for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Beef roulades are best served with hearty sides like knödel or egg noodles, as they soak up the delicious juices. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can provide a nice contrast. You can also serve them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Pair with a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover beef roulades can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, covering with a lid. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beef Roulade contains roughly 350 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 934mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

350 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.4g 15% DV
Total Fat 18.9g 24% DV
Carbs 38.8g 14% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 9.6g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 933.7mg 41% DV
Potassium 199.6mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 10.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 2.9mg 3% DV
Calcium 37.8mg 3% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make beef roulades in advance?

Yes, you can prepare beef roulades a day ahead. Assemble them, and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. When you're ready, simply brown them and continue with the cooking instructions. This can enhance the flavors as they marinate in the spices overnight.

What can I use instead of bacon?

If you prefer not to use bacon, other options include turkey bacon, pancetta, or even a flavorful herb paste. You can also skip the meat entirely and fill the roulades with vegetables or cheese for a vegetarian version, keeping the same rolling technique.

How do I know when the beef is done cooking?

The beef roulades are done when they are tender and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the roulade. The meat should be easy to cut and juicy. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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