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italian beef Brasciola

Italian Braciola Recipe

This traditional Italian braciola recipe features thin slices of beef stuffed with cheese and herbs, rolled up, and simmered in a savory tomato sauce. The braciola comes out melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours of gentle braising. Discover step-by-step instructions for preparing the stuffed meat rolls and sauce along with pro tips for getting the best results.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 323 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ingredients For the Braciola:

  • 6 thin slices beef round steak about 1-2 lbs total
  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Toothpicks or kitchen string

Ingredients For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 28- oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 6- oz can tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
  • Place a slice of beef between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the meat until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining slices of meat.
  • Sprinkle the top of each meat slice with salt and pepper.
  • Divide the filling mixture evenly among the 6 slices of meat, sprinkling it over the surface and spreading to cover.
  • Starting at one short end, tightly roll up each slice of meat to encase the filling. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen string.
  • In a large Dutch oven or braising pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, red wine, bay leaves, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the sauce to a simmer then add the rolled braciola. Spoon some of the sauce over the tops of the rolls.
  • Partially cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 2 hours, turning the braciola every 30 minutes, until very tender.
  • Transfer the braciola to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly.
  • Remove toothpicks or string from the braciola. Slice each roll into 2-inch pieces.
Keyword Braciola Recipe, Italian Braciola