What is a ground beef roll?

A ground beef roll is a simple yet delicious dish that can be a tasty main course or appetizer. It consists of a mixture of ground beef, spices, and other ingredients that are rolled up and cooked. Ground beef rolls are versatile, easy to make, and full of flavor.

Table of Contents

What Are the Main Ingredients in Ground Beef Rolls?

The main ingredients in basic ground beef rolls are:

Ground beef – This is the base of the rolls. Ground chuck or a leaner ground sirloin are good options.
Onion – Finely diced onion is cooked with the beef to add flavor.
Spices and seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc help boost the flavor.

Binder – Eggs or breadcrumbs are commonly used to help hold the ground beef together.
Filling ingredients (optional) – Things like cooked rice, cheese, veggies, etc can be added.

The ground beef mixture can be shaped into rolls around various fillings before cooking. Some popular options are:

Cooked rice
Sautéed veggies like spinach, peppers, or mushrooms
Cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan

Chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts
Diced ham
Bacon

Step-By-Step Instructions

Here is a simple step-by-step overview of how to make classic ground beef rolls:

Cook the onion and any other aromatics (garlic, etc) in a skillet until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.

Drain excess fat if needed. Season with spices and salt/pepper.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly then mix in the eggs and/or breadcrumbs.
On a flat surface, shape beef mixture into a rectangle. Spread filling ingredients (if using) in a line down the center.

Roll up the beef mixture around the filling and shape into a log. Season the outside with more salt/pepper.
Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Slice into rounds and serve warm.

Cooking Methods

There are several different ways to cook ground beef rolls including:

Baking – This dry heat method helps form a nice crust on the outside of the rolls. Bake at 375°F on a sheet pan.
Braising – Browning the rolls first then cooking in a sauce or gravy allows flavors to develop. Good for larger roasts.

Grilling – Quick grilling over direct heat works well for individual rolls. Adds nice charring.
Pan frying – Cook rolls in batches in a skillet with oil. Makes for easy preparation.
Slow cooker – Simmer rolls in a sauce for tender, fall-apart texture.

Flavor Variations

There are countless ways to vary the flavors of ground beef rolls:

Italian – AddItalian spices, mozzarella, basil, chopped artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes.
Mexican – Use taco seasoning, Monterey jack cheese, beans, salsa, cilantro.

Greek – Include feta cheese, spinach, red onion, lemon, oregano, olives.
Cajun – Use Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, onion, garlic, tabasco sauce.
Asian – Add soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, scallions, mushrooms.

Mix and match different herbs, spices, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces to customize the rolls.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas for how to serve ground beef rolls:

Slice into pinwheels and top with sauce, gravy or condiments like mustard, ketchup, or ranch dressing.

Serve whole rolled logs on soft buns for sandwiches.
Simmer beef rolls in a flavorful sauce like marinara or stroganoff sauce.
Arrange sliced rolls on top of salad greens for a hearty main-dish salad.

Place individual rolls on kabobs or skewers for grilling or dipping in sauces.
Dice into bite-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer or over pasta.

They can be served as a main course or appetizer and pair nicely with various side dishes. Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, and vegetables are excellent pairings.

Benefits of Ground Beef Rolls

There are many benefits that make ground beef rolls a great choice:

Endlessly customizable with different fillings and flavors.
Ideal way to use up leftover ground beef.

Make-ahead friendly – can be prepared then reheated later.
Budget friendly and inexpensive ingredients.
Provide protein, iron, zinc and other nutrients.

Kid friendly and appealing for picky eaters.
Simple comfort food at its best!

Storage and Freezer Tips

Ground beef rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Here are some freezer tips:

Allow rolls to cool completely before freezing for best results.
Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place in freezer bags.
Frozen ground beef rolls last 2-3 months in the freezer.

Thaw rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat thawed rolls in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Raw uncooked rolls can also be prepared then frozen. Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld, then wrap well and freeze. Cook directly from frozen when ready to eat.

Common Questions

What kind of ground beef is best?

Ground chuck or ground sirloin are good choices for ground beef rolls. They provide sufficient fat for flavor and moisture. Extra lean ground beef can become dry and crumbly.

Do you brown the beef first?

Browning the ground beef delivers better flavor. Cook over medium-high heat until nicely browned before adding onions, spices, etc.

What binder is best?

Eggs and breadcrumbs both work well. For egg only use 1 whisked egg per pound of beef. For breadcrumbs use 1/4 to 1/2 cup per pound of meat.

Do you season the inside or outside?

Season the beef mixture before rolling, then also season the outside with salt and pepper before cooking for the best flavor.

What temperature should rolls be cooked to?

Cook ground beef rolls to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked through and safe to eat.

Conclusion

Ground beef rolls are a humble yet hearty dish that has limitless variations. Feel free to get creative with different fillings, seasonings, and cooking methods. Portion into individual rolls for meals or appetizers, or cook in a large roast. Freeze extras for quick weeknight meals. Ground beef rolls are sure to become a new family favorite!