Beef Braciole is a classic Italian dish consisting of thinly sliced beef, rolled with a flavorful breadcrumb filling, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This slow-cooked comfort food is perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Italian Flavor – Slow-cooked beef in a savory tomato sauce.
- Tender Meat – The beef becomes incredibly tender from the slow cooking.
- Simple Ingredients – Easy-to-find ingredients with a gourmet touch.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – Great for family gatherings or festive meals.
Ingredients
For the Braciole:
- 1.5 lbs beef top round or flank steak, thinly sliced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Beef: Pound the beef slices to an even thickness of ¼ inch.
- Make the Filling: Combine breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Braciole: Place the filling on each beef slice and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks or twine.
- Sear the Braciole: Brown the beef rolls on all sides in a hot skillet with olive oil.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté onions and garlic, then add wine to deglaze. Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until tender.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks, garnish with basil or parsley, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Braciole – Add provolone or mozzarella inside for extra richness.
- Slow Cooker – Brown the beef and cook in the slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What is braciole?
Braciole is an Italian dish of rolled beef stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then slow-cooked in tomato sauce.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, flank steak or sirloin also work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, braciole can be assembled a day ahead and cooked when ready.
Conclusion
This Beef Braciole recipe brings a comforting taste of Italy to your table. The slow-simmered beef, rich tomato sauce, and savory filling make it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
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Beef Braciole (Involtini) – Traditional Italian Braciole al Sugo
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Beef Braciole (Involtini) is a traditional Italian dish of tender beef rolls filled with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This slow-cooked comfort food is perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions, offering authentic Italian flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Ingredients
For the Braciole:
- 1.5 lbs beef top round or flank steak, thinly sliced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beef:
Pound the beef slices to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. -
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. -
Assemble the Braciole:
Place a generous amount of the breadcrumb mixture on each beef slice and roll tightly. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine. -
Sear the Braciole:
Heat olive oil in a hot skillet and brown the beef rolls on all sides. -
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft. If using, add red wine to deglaze the pan. Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. -
Simmer:
Return the beef rolls to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5-2 hours until the beef is tender. -
Serve:
Remove toothpicks or twine from the beef, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra richness, add provolone or mozzarella inside the braciole.
- You can make this dish in a slow cooker by browning the beef and then cooking it on low for 4-6 hours.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking, Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
