Slow-Cooked, Tender Beef Rolls in Rich Tomato Sauce 🇮🇹
🍅 Introduction
Transport your taste buds to Italy with these authentic Italian Braciole—thin beef rolls stuffed with garlicky breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and prosciutto, then simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth tender. Perfect served over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread, this dish is a Sunday dinner showstopper that’s worth the wait!
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✅ Rich, slow-cooked flavor – The sauce becomes incredibly deep and savory.
✅ Impressive but simple – Looks fancy but is easy to assemble.
✅ Versatile – Pair with pasta, risotto, or mashed potatoes.
✅ Freezer-friendly – Make ahead for an easy gourmet meal.
📝 Ingredients
For the Braciole:
- 4 thin slices beef (top round or flank steak, ~6–8 oz each)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices prosciutto (or ham)
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
(Optional: Fresh basil for garnish)
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Braciole
- Lay beef slices flat and season with salt & pepper.
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, and garlic.
- Spread filling over each slice, then top with prosciutto.
- Roll tightly like a jelly roll and secure with twine/toothpicks.
2️⃣ Sear the Braciole
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet/Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear rolls on all sides until browned (~2 mins per side). Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Sauce
- In the same pot, sauté onion until soft (~4 mins).
- Add garlic, cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze with red wine (if using), simmer 2 mins.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt & pepper.
4️⃣ Slow-Cook to Perfection
- Return braciole to pot, nestling into the sauce.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, turning occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove twine/toothpicks, slice braciole into rounds.
- Serve over pasta (like pappardelle) or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
✅ Yes! Flank steak or sirloin works, but ensure slices are thin (or pound them thin).
2. Can I make this without wine?
✅ Absolutely. Substitute with beef broth or just omit it.
3. How do I store leftovers?
🍝 Fridge: Up to 3 days (tastes even better the next day!).
❄️ Freezer: Up to 3 months (store sauce + braciole together).
4. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
✅ Yes! Sear braciole first, then transfer to a slow cooker with sauce and cook on Low for 6–8 hours.
5. What’s the best pasta to serve with braciole?
🍝 Pappardelle, rigatoni, or spaghetti are perfect for soaking up the sauce!
6. Can I add vegetables?
🥕 Sure! Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing onions.
💡 Chef’s Tips
- Pound the beef if slices are too thick (aim for ¼-inch thickness).
- Don’t skip searing—it locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Simmer gently to prevent the beef from toughening.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- With a side of garlic bread for dipping.
- Over creamy polenta for a comforting meal.
- Paired with a Chianti or Sangiovese wine.
⏳ Time & Nutrition
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 2 hrs | Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Calories: ~350 per serving | Servings: 4
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Italian Braciole is a labor of love that rewards you with unbeatable flavor—tender beef, savory filling, and a tomato sauce that’s bellissimo! Perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving hearty, homemade Italian comfort food.
Mangia bene! 😋🍷
