If you have ever dreamed of tasting an authentic Italian comfort dish that combines tender meat with rich tomato sauce and an irresistible cheesy center, then this Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic dish features thin slices of beef rolled up with a savory mix of breadcrumbs and cheese, slowly simmered in a luscious tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed beef rolls bring a soul-warming Italian vibe straight to your table, making every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. With just a handful of essentials, you’ll create a hearty dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
- 1 lb thin beef slices: Choose tender, thinly sliced beef for easy rolling and quick cooking.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: These add a wonderful texture inside the roll and help absorb the flavors.
- ½ cup shredded cheese: Melts perfectly inside for that creamy, cheesy surprise in each bite.
- 2 cups tomato sauce: The heart of the dish, gently simmering the braciole to juicy perfection with rich Italian flavors.
How to Make Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Filling
Start by laying out your thin beef slices flat on a clean surface. Generously sprinkle the breadcrumbs and shredded cheese evenly over each slice. This combination creates a delicious, melty filling that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef.
Step 2: Roll and Secure the Beef
Carefully roll each beef slice up tightly around the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the rolls so they don’t fall apart during cooking. This step is key to keeping all those flavors locked inside where they belong.
Step 3: Brown the Rolls
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef rolls on all sides. Browning not only enhances the flavor with caramelization but also gives the rolls a nice texture that holds up well during simmering.
Step 4: Simmer in Tomato Sauce
Once browned, nestle the beef rolls into the tomato sauce and cover the skillet. Let them simmer gently for about 45 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become irresistibly tender.
Step 5: Remove Toothpicks and Serve
Before serving, carefully remove all the toothpicks. This ensures a safe, neat presentation and allows you to enjoy the full taste without distractions.
How to Serve Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your plate with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and herbal freshness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving adds an extra layer of savory goodness that complements the rich tomato sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Classic Italian sides like buttery garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a simple spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic make fantastic companions for your braciole. They soak up the fragrant tomato sauce and balance out the hearty meat rolls beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice the rolls into medallions and arrange them on a platter with drizzled sauce and vibrant herbs. Alternatively, serve one whole roll per plate nestled on a bed of your preferred side, making a rustic yet elegant presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish at a later date, you can freeze the cooked beef rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat in a covered pan with a splash of extra tomato sauce or broth to keep the rolls moist. Avoid high heat to prevent the beef from drying out. Alternatively, warm them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While a mild shredded cheese like mozzarella works great, you can experiment with provolone, Parmesan, or even a mix for deeper flavor. Just make sure it melts well to keep the filling creamy.
What cut of beef is best for braciole?
Thinly sliced top round or flank steak are ideal because they are tender enough to roll but sturdy enough to hold the filling during cooking. If you can’t find thin slices, ask your butcher to slice them very thin for you.
Is it possible to bake instead of simmering?
Yes, you can bake the stuffed rolls in a covered baking dish with tomato sauce at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until tender. Just be sure to check them periodically to avoid drying out.
Can I prepare the braciole a day ahead?
Definitely! Assemble and roll the beef the day before, then keep covered in the fridge. When ready to cook, brown the rolls and simmer in sauce as usual. This can help the flavors develop even more.
What else can I add to the filling?
You can add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano, finely chopped garlic, or even a bit of prosciutto for an extra layer of complexity. Just remember to keep the filling balanced so it complements the beef and sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it’s a deliciously satisfying dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. The combination of tender beef, gooey cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, and savory tomato sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Give it a try—you may just find a new favorite in this traditional Italian classic that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Italian Beef Braciole (Stuffed Beef Roll) Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Italian Beef Braciole is a classic Sunday dinner featuring thin slices of beef filled with cheese and breadcrumbs, rolled up, browned in a skillet, and slowly simmered in rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish captures the essence of traditional Italian comfort food with its tender, flavorful meat and savory sauce.
Ingredients
Beef and Filling
- 1 lb thin beef slices
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or provolone)
Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and shredded cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over each thin beef slice, ensuring full coverage.
- Roll the beef: Carefully roll each beef slice tightly around the filling. Secure each roll with toothpicks to hold the shape during cooking.
- Brown the rolls: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef rolls on all sides. This seals in the flavor and creates a delicious crust.
- Simmer in sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the browned beef rolls in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until the beef is tender and infused with the sauce’s flavor.
- Finish and serve: Remove the toothpicks from the beef rolls carefully before serving. Plate the braciole with sauce spooned over the top and serve hot.
Notes
- Remove toothpicks before serving to avoid any choking hazards.
- Use a firm cheese like provolone or mozzarella for best melting results.
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Serve with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
