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Beef Braciole (Involtini) – Traditional Italian Braciole al Sugo


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A classic Italian dish featuring thinly sliced beef, rolled with a savory filling, and slow-simmered in rich tomato sauce until tender. Perfect for Sunday dinners and special occasions!


Ingredients

For the Braciole:

  • 1.5 pounds beef top round or flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for searing

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Beef:

  • Lay thinly sliced beef on a cutting board. If necessary, pound to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet.

2️⃣ Make the Filling:

  • In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.

3️⃣ Assemble the Braciole:

  • Place a spoonful of the filling onto each beef slice and spread evenly.
  • Roll the beef tightly into a cylinder, enclosing the filling.
  • Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unrolling.

4️⃣ Sear the Braciole:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add beef rolls and sear on all sides until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.

5️⃣ Prepare the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  • (Optional) Pour in red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, seasoning with salt and pepper.

6️⃣ Simmer the Braciole:

  • Return the seared beef rolls to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Add a splash of water if sauce thickens too much.

7️⃣ Serve:

  • Remove toothpicks or twine from the braciole.
  • Serve hot, topped with rich tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

8️⃣ Enjoy! Serve over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread for a traditional Italian meal.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking, Braising
  • Cuisine: Italian