Austria is a country rich in history, culture, and culinary delights.
From hearty stews to delicate pastries, Austrian cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors and textures that reflect its regional diversity and historical influences.
As a chef who loves to explore traditional recipes, I’m excited to share these 40 delicious Austrian dishes with you.
Each one is crafted with love and care, bringing a taste of Austria to your kitchen.
1. Wiener Schnitzel
Wiener Schnitzel is the epitome of Austrian cuisine.
Imagine a tender veal cutlet, breaded and fried to golden perfection, served with a slice of lemon and a side of potato salad.
The crisp, golden crust gives way to juicy, flavorful meat, making each bite an absolute delight.
It’s a dish that’s both simple and sublime, perfect for any occasion.
2. Tafelspitz
Tafelspitz is a classic Austrian dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table.
This boiled beef dish is simmered with root vegetables and spices until tender,
It is then served with a side of horseradish sauce and apple-horseradish cream.
The broth is often served as a starter, creating a multi-course meal from one pot.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and a true taste of Austria’s culinary heritage.
3. Apfelstrudel
Who can resist a slice of Apfelstrudel?
This traditional Austrian dessert features thin layers of pastry wrapped around a filling of tart apples, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon.
Baked to a golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar, it’s best served warm with a dollop of vanilla sauce or a scoop of ice cream.
It’s a sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.
4. Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn, also known as the Emperor’s Mess, is a fluffy shredded pancake that’s a favorite among Austrians.
Light and airy, these pancakes are caramelized with sugar and often served with plum compote or apple sauce.
It’s a fun and indulgent dish that’s perfect for brunch or dessert, and it’s said to have been a favorite of Emperor Franz Joseph
5. Goulash
Austrian Goulash is a rich, hearty stew that’s perfect for cold winter days.
It is made with tender chunks of beef, onions, and a generous amount of paprika.
This dish is slow-cooked until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Served with dumplings or crusty bread, it’s a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
6. Sacher Torte
Sacher Torte is a legendary Austrian chocolate cake that’s been delighting sweet tooths since the 19th century.
This decadent cake features layers of dense chocolate sponge cake, filled with apricot jam, and coated in a smooth chocolate glaze.
It’s best enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream and a cup of strong coffee, making it a perfect treat for special occasions.
7. Backhendl
Backhendl, or Austrian fried chicken, is a beloved dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
The chicken pieces are breaded and fried to golden perfection, then served with a side of potato salad or coleslaw.
It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for a casual dinner or a picnic.
8. Frittatensuppe
Frittatensuppe is a comforting Austrian soup made with thin strips of pancake in a clear beef broth.
The pancakes, also known as frittata, add a delightful texture to the savory broth, creating a soup that’s both light and satisfying.
It’s a perfect starter for any meal and a great way to use up leftover pancakes.
9. Knödel
Knödel, or dumplings, are a staple in Austrian cuisine.
These versatile dumplings can be made from bread, potatoes, or semolina, and are often served as a side dish with meat or in soups.
Each variety has its unique texture and flavor, making them a delicious addition to any meal.
10. Zwetschgenknödel
Zwetschgenknödel are sweet plum dumplings that make for a delightful dessert or a special breakfast treat.
The dumplings are made from potato dough, filled with juicy plums, and boiled until tender.
They’re then rolled in breadcrumbs and sugar, creating a dessert that’s both sweet and satisfying.
11. Liptauer
Liptauer is a tangy, creamy cheese spread that’s a popular appetizer in Austria.
They are made with fresh cheese, paprika, onions, and various spices, it’s typically served with rye bread or crackers.
Its bold flavors make it a perfect start to any meal, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
12. Beuschel
Beuschel is a traditional Austrian dish made from veal lungs and heart, cooked in a creamy sauce with a hint of vinegar.
It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s often served with dumplings or bread.
While it might not be for everyone, those who try it are often pleasantly surprised by its rich taste and unique texture.
13. Germknödel
Germknödel is a steamed yeast dumpling filled with spicy plum jam and topped with buttery poppy seed and sugar mixture.
Served warm, it’s a comforting and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for winter days.
The combination of the fluffy dumpling, sweet jam, and nutty poppy seeds is simply irresistible.
14. Erdäpfelsalat
Erdäpfelsalat, or Austrian potato salad, is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Made with tender potatoes, onions, vinegar, and a touch of mustard, this salad is light, tangy, and incredibly satisfying.
It pairs beautifully with Wiener Schnitzel or grilled sausages.
15. Schweinsbraten
Schweinsbraten, or roast pork, is a beloved Austrian dish that’s often served on Sundays or special occasions.
The pork is seasoned with garlic, caraway seeds, and marjoram, then roasted until it’s tender and juicy.
Served with sauerkraut and dumplings, it’s a hearty meal that’s sure to please.
16. Palatschinken
Palatschinken are Austrian crepes that can be filled with sweet or savory fillings.
Whether you prefer them with apricot jam, Nutella, or a savory spinach and cheese filling, these thin pancakes are versatile and delicious.
They’re a perfect breakfast or dessert option that everyone will love.
17. Marillenknödel
Marillenknödel are apricot dumplings made from a potato or quark dough, filled with fresh apricots, and boiled until tender.
Rolled in breadcrumbs and sugar, these dumplings are a sweet and fruity treat that’s perfect for dessert.
The tartness of the apricots balances beautifully with the sweet, buttery coating.
18. Leberkäse
Leberkäse is a type of Austrian meatloaf that’s made from finely ground pork and beef, baked until it forms a crispy crust.
Often served in thick slices with mustard and a pretzel, it’s a popular street food and a hearty snack.
The savory, slightly smoky flavor is sure to satisfy any meat lover.
19. Rindsuppe
Rindsuppe is a classic Austrian beef broth that’s the base for many traditional soups.
Made from simmering beef bones, vegetables, and spices, it’s rich and flavorful.
Serve it with frittaten (pancake strips), semolina dumplings, or noodles for a comforting and warming starter.
20. Wiener Backhendl
Wiener Backhendl, or Viennese fried chicken, is a beloved dish that’s both crispy and tender.
The chicken pieces are marinated in lemon juice, breaded, and fried to golden perfection.
Served with a side of potato salad or a fresh green salad, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
21. Eierschwammerl Risotto
Eierschwammerl Risotto is a creamy, luxurious dish made with chanterelle mushrooms, often foraged from Austrian forests.
The risotto is cooked with onions, garlic, white wine, and vegetable broth until creamy, then finished with Parmesan cheese.
The earthy mushrooms add a delightful flavor and texture, making this dish a true treat.
22. Krautfleckerl
Krautfleckerl is a traditional Austrian pasta dish made with cabbage and wide noodles.
The cabbage is sautéed with onions and butter until caramelized, then mixed with the cooked noodles.
It’s a simple, rustic dish that’s incredibly comforting and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
23. Buchteln
Buchteln are sweet yeast buns filled with jam or poppy seeds, baked until golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar.
They’re best enjoyed warm, with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
These fluffy, tender buns are a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert.
24. Schinkenfleckerl
Schinkenfleckerl is a hearty Austrian pasta casserole made with ham and noodles.
The pasta is mixed with a creamy sauce, diced ham, and sometimes peas, then baked until bubbly and golden.
It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.
25. Steirisches Wurzelfleisch
Steirisches Wurzelfleisch is a traditional dish from Styria, featuring pork cooked with root vegetables and spices.
The meat is tender and flavorful, and the vegetables add a hearty, rustic element to the dish.
It’s often served with freshly grated horseradish, adding a spicy kick that complements the rich flavors perfectly.
26. Kürbiskernöl
Kürbiskernöl, or pumpkin seed oil, is a specialty from Styria, known for its deep green color and nutty flavor.
It’s often drizzled over salads, soups, or even vanilla ice cream for a unique twist.
The oil is made from roasted pumpkin seeds, and its rich, earthy taste adds a distinctive touch to any dish.
27. Powidltascherl
Powidltascherl are Austrian plum jam turnovers, made from a tender dough and filled with sweet, spiced plum jam.
These little pastries are fried until golden and sprinkled with sugar, creating a deliciously crispy and sweet treat.
They’re perfect for an afternoon snack or a special dessert.
28. Topfennockerl
Topfennockerl are delicate Austrian cheese dumplings made from quark cheese, flour, and eggs.
These light, fluffy dumplings are often served with a fruity compote or a drizzle of melted butter and sugar.
They make for a delightful dessert that’s both light and satisfying.
29. Reindling
Reindling is a sweet yeast cake from Carinthia, filled with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins.
The dough is rolled up with the filling and baked until golden brown, creating a deliciously sweet and aromatic treat.
It’s often enjoyed during Easter, but it’s so good you’ll want to make it year-round.
30. Pofesen
Pofesen, also known as Austrian French toast, is a sweet, indulgent breakfast or dessert.
Thick slices of bread are filled with apricot jam, dipped in a milk and egg mixture, and fried until golden brown.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a deliciously comforting treat.
31. Speckknödel
Speckknödel are hearty bacon dumplings that are a staple in Austrian cuisine.
Made from a mixture of bread, eggs, and crispy bacon, these dumplings are boiled until tender.
It is often served in a rich beef broth or with sauerkraut.
They’re a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold day.
32. Topfenstrudel
Topfenstrudel is a delightful cheese strudel made with a filling of quark cheese, sugar, and a hint of lemon zest.
The flaky pastry and creamy filling make for a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
33. Fiakergulasch
Fiakergulasch is a variation of the traditional goulash, served with a fried egg, pickles, and sausages.
This hearty dish is perfect for a substantial meal, with its rich, flavorful sauce and tender pieces of beef.
The unique garnishes add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it a true Austrian classic.
34. Grießnockerlsuppe
Grießnockerlsuppe is a comforting semolina dumpling soup that’s often enjoyed as a starter.
The light, fluffy dumplings are made from semolina, butter, and eggs, and served in a clear beef or vegetable broth.
It’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a light meal or a soothing snack.
35. Linzer Torte
Linzer Torte is one of Austria’s most famous desserts, known for its crumbly nut crust and fruity filling.
The crust is made from ground almonds or hazelnuts, and the filling is typically raspberry or red currant jam.
The lattice top adds a beautiful touch, making this tart as lovely to look at as it is to eat.
36. Fleischlaberl
Fleischlaberl are Austrian meat patties, similar to meatballs, made from ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, and spices.
These juicy, flavorful patties are often served with mashed potatoes or a simple salad.
They’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
37. Semmelknödel
Semmelknödel, or bread dumplings, are a classic Austrian side dish made from day-old bread, milk, and eggs.
These hearty dumplings are boiled until tender and served with rich sauces or stews.
They’re a great way to use up leftover bread and add a comforting touch to any meal.
38. Schlutzkrapfen
Schlutzkrapfen are delicate Tyrolean pasta pockets filled with a mixture of spinach and ricotta.
These little dumplings are similar to ravioli and are typically served with melted butter and grated cheese.
They’re a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for a special dinner.
39. Bauernschmaus
Bauernschmaus, or farmer’s feast, is a hearty Austrian dish featuring a variety of meats such as smoked pork, sausages, and bacon.
This rustic meal is perfect for a large gathering or a special occasion, offering a taste of traditional Austrian fare.
40. Nockerln
Nockerln are Austrian dumplings that can be sweet or savory.
The sweet version, Salzburger Nockerln, is fluffy meringue-like dumplings.
It is served with a dusting of powdered sugar and often accompanied by a berry compote.
The savory version is made from flour, eggs, and milk, and served as a side dish with stews or goulash.
