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
