Authentic Austrian Beef Roulades (Grill Version) bring a traditional alpine favorite to the summer grill. These tender beef rolls are stuffed with sharp mustard, smoky bacon, tangy pickles, and sweet onions, then seared over the flame for a smoky, satisfying main dish. Perfect for outdoor cooking, this version offers all the hearty flavors of classic roulades with a fresh, grill-friendly twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines rich, traditional Austrian flavors with the simplicity of summer grilling. You’ll love it because:
- It transforms a cozy classic into an outdoor favorite.
- The filling provides a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory notes.
- Quick to grill and easy to prepare ahead.
- Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for family dinners.
- Pairs beautifully with salads, potatoes, or rustic bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 thin beef slices (top round or flank)
- 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 4 strips bacon
- 4 small pickles, sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Directions
- Place each beef slice between sheets of plastic wrap and pound thin for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard over each slice.
- Layer each with a strip of bacon, a few onion slices, and pickle slices.
- Roll each beef slice tightly, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly.
- Grill the roulades for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Let rest briefly before slicing or serving whole.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 roulades
- Calories: 240 kcal per roulade
Variations
- Herb touch: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme inside the roulade before rolling.
- Cheese filling: Include a slice of Swiss or Emmental cheese for added richness.
- Spicy twist: Use spicy mustard or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Vegetable addition: Include a strip of roasted red pepper or zucchini.
- Glaze option: Brush with a light balsamic glaze during the final minute of grilling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the grill over low heat or in a skillet until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked roulades tightly wrapped; thaw fully before grilling.
FAQs
Can I prepare the roulades ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and keep refrigerated until ready to grill.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Top round or flank steak works well because they are lean and hold up nicely when rolled.
Can I cook these on a grill pan indoors?
Yes, a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat works well for this recipe.
Do I have to use toothpicks or twine?
Yes, securing the rolls helps them hold their shape during grilling.
Can I add sauce?
You can serve with mustard, horseradish cream, or a light gravy if desired.
How do I keep the roulades from sticking?
Lightly oil the grates and avoid moving the roulades too soon after placing them on the grill.
What sides pair well with these?
Potato salad, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread are excellent accompaniments.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Should I marinate the beef first?
No marinade is needed as the filling provides plenty of flavor.
Can I use larger pickles?
Yes, just slice them to fit the width of the beef slices.
Conclusion
Authentic Austrian Beef Roulades (Grill Version) are a delicious way to bring traditional alpine flavors to your summer grill. With their hearty filling and smoky char, these beef rolls are a perfect centerpiece for warm-weather gatherings or casual family meals. Simple to prepare and full of character, they’re sure to impress and satisfy.
Print
Authentic Austrian Beef Roulades (Grill Version)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 roulades 1x
Description
Tender beef rolls stuffed with mustard, pickles, and bacon, then grilled to smoky perfection—an alpine classic made summer grill-friendly.
Ingredients
- 4 thin beef slices (top round or flank)
- 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 4 strips bacon
- 4 small pickles, sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Pound beef slices thin and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread each slice with 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
- Layer with a strip of bacon, some onion slices, and pickle slices.
- Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
- Grill roulades for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use wooden toothpicks soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill.
- Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a brush of barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or potato salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roulade
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
