Here’s a classic recipe for Authentic Beef Rolls in Tomato Sauce — tender beef slices rolled around savory fillings, simmered gently in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect comfort food!
🥩 Authentic Beef Rolls in Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
For the beef rolls:
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1.5 lbs (700g) thinly sliced beef (top round or sirloin), about 6–8 slices
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4 slices bacon or pancetta (optional)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
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1 cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs (for binding)
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1 egg, beaten
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tbsp oil for frying
For the tomato sauce:
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2 tbsp oil
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1 onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
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1 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup beef or vegetable broth
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling:
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In a pan, sauté chopped onion, garlic, and mushrooms (if using) until soft. Let cool.
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In a bowl, combine the cooked veggies, cooked rice or breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Assemble the rolls:
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Lay out each beef slice flat.
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Place a small spoonful of filling on each slice.
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Optionally add a strip of bacon/pancetta on top of the filling.
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Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
3. Brown the rolls:
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Brown the beef rolls on all sides until nicely colored. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the tomato sauce:
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In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.
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Sauté sliced onion and garlic until softened.
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Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer:
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Return the beef rolls to the sauce.
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Cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until beef is tender and the flavors meld.
6. Serve:
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Remove toothpicks or twine.
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Serve beef rolls topped with the tomato sauce.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
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Great with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Tips:
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For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce.
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You can stuff the rolls with cheese for extra indulgence.
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Use thin beef slices; if too thick, pound gently to even thickness.