Here’s a classic and satisfying recipe for Beef Braciole—an Italian favorite made of thin beef rolled with flavorful stuffing, seared, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for Sunday dinners or special occasions.
🇮🇹 Traditional Beef Braciole
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 2½–3 hours
Total Time: ~3½ hours
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Braciole Rolls:
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1½–2 lbs flank steak or top round, pounded thin
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½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
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¼ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
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¼ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2–3 tbsp olive oil, for searing
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Butcher’s twine or toothpicks, for securing
For the Tomato Sauce:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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½ cup dry red wine (optional, but recommended)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 bay leaf
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Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, to taste
🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat:
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Pound steak slices to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into pieces about 4×6 inches.
2. Make the Filling:
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In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and provolone (if using). Season with a little salt and pepper.
3. Roll the Braciole:
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Spoon a small amount of filling onto each slice. Roll up tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
4. Sear the Rolls:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the rolls on all sides (2–3 min per side). Set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
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In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat olive oil. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, wine, oregano, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir and bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Braciole:
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Add the browned rolls to the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2 to 2½ hours, until meat is tender and easily cut with a fork. Stir occasionally and add water or broth if sauce thickens too much.
7. Serve:
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Remove twine or toothpicks. Serve Braciole with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread, spooning sauce over everything.
🍷 Pair With:
A bold red wine like Chianti, Barbera, or Sangiovese.