why make this recipe
German Roll-Ups, also known as Rinderroulade, are a classic comfort food that combines tender beef wrapped around savory fillings. They are perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Making these roll-ups brings a taste of German tradition to your home, and they are sure to impress family and friends alike. The combination of beef, mustard, bacon, and pickles creates a delightful burst of flavors that is both hearty and satisfying.
how to make German Roll-Ups
Ingredients:
- 4 large beef slices (such as flank steak)
- 4 tablespoons mustard
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 pickles (sour or dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lay out the beef slices flat and spread mustard on each slice.
- Place a slice of bacon and a pickle on each beef slice.
- Roll the beef tightly around the fillings and secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Season the outside of the rolls with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and brown the rouladen on all sides.
- Once browned, remove the rouladen and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions and chopped carrots until they are softened.
- Return the rouladen to the skillet and add the beef broth and red wine.
- Bring everything to a boil, then cover and transfer the skillet to the oven.
- Braise for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Optionally, mix flour with a little water to create a slurry and add it to the gravy to thicken it before serving.
how to serve German Roll-Ups
Serve German Roll-Ups with mashed potatoes, noodles, or a side of sauerkraut. For a complete meal, add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Pour some of the delicious gravy over the roll-ups for extra flavor.
how to store German Roll-Ups
To store German Roll-Ups, let them cool down completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, you can microwave them or warm them in a skillet with a bit of the gravy.
tips to make German Roll-Ups
- Use thinly sliced beef for easier rolling.
- Experiment with different pickles, such as sweet or spicy, for varied flavors.
- Make sure to brown the rouladen well for better flavor.
- If you don’t have red wine, you can omit it or substitute with additional beef broth.
variation
You can add other fillings like shredded carrots or chopped mushrooms for a different twist. Some also like to use mustard varieties, such as honey mustard, for a hint of sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make German Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute if you prefer.
Is it necessary to use red wine in this recipe?
No, the red wine is optional. You can use additional beef broth instead for a non-alcoholic version.

German Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lay out the beef slices flat and spread mustard on each slice.
- Place a slice of bacon and a pickle on each beef slice.
- Roll the beef tightly around the fillings and secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Season the outside of the rolls with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and brown the rouladen on all sides.
- Once browned, remove the rouladen and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions and chopped carrots until they are softened.
- Return the rouladen to the skillet and add the beef broth and red wine.
- Bring everything to a boil, then cover and transfer the skillet to the oven.
- Braise for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Optionally, mix flour with a little water to create a slurry and add it to the gravy to thicken it before serving.