Name: Braciole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Thin slices of beef (such as top round or flank steak); Garlic, minced; Fresh parsley, chopped; Breadcrumbs; Grated parmesan or pecorino cheese; Olive oil; Salt and pepper; Egg (optional, for binding); Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; Onion, chopped; Garlic, minced; Olive oil; Dried oregano or basil; Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Braciole is rich, hearty, and full of traditional Italian flavor. The slow cooking process makes the beef incredibly tender while allowing the filling and sauce to meld together beautifully. It’s a dish that feels special and satisfying, perfect for Sunday dinners or gatherings, yet simple enough to prepare with patience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Thin slices of beef (such as top round or flank steak)
Garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Breadcrumbs
Grated parmesan or pecorino cheese
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Egg (optional, for binding)
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Dried oregano or basil
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Lay the beef slices flat and season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg (if using).
Spread the filling evenly over each slice of beef.
Roll the beef tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the braciole on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well.
Return the braciole to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
Serve with sauce over pasta or on its own.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1.5–2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Different meats: Use pork or veal instead of beef.
Cheese variation: Try provolone or mozzarella in the filling.
Spicy version: Add more chili flakes.
No breadcrumbs: Use grated vegetables or skip for a simpler filling.
Herb twist: Add basil or oregano to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What is braciole?

It’s an Italian dish of rolled meat filled with herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, cooked in sauce.

What cut of beef is best?

Thin cuts like top round or flank steak work best.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?

Secure them tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Can I freeze braciole?

Yes, it freezes well after cooking.

What do I serve with it?

Pasta, polenta, or crusty bread are great options.

Can I cook it faster?

Slow cooking is best for tenderness, but pressure cooking is an option.

Is it spicy?

Only if you add chili flakes.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, carrots or mushrooms work well.

Why simmer for so long?

Slow cooking makes the meat tender and enhances flavor.

Conclusion

Braciole is a comforting and flavorful Italian classic that brings together tender meat, a savory filling, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, it’s a dish that rewards patience with incredible taste and texture. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite.

Braciole

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Braciole is a classic Italian dish of thin beef slices rolled with a savory filling of herbs, garlic, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then slow-simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Tender and deeply flavorful, it’s perfect for special family meals.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Lay the beef slices flat and season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg if using.
Spread the filling evenly over each slice of beef.
Roll the beef tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the braciole on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, and red pepper flakes if using, and stir well.
Return the braciole to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
Serve with sauce over pasta or on its own.

Notes

Use pork or veal as an alternative to beef.
Try provolone or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Add vegetables like mushrooms or carrots to the sauce.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 640 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg