Name: Authentic Italian Braciole with Herb-Stuffed Beef Rolls in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 to 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin and pounded flat; ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 3 tbsp olive oil (for searing); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity); Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup water or broth (as needed)

Introduction

Authentic Braciole is a classic Italian dish featuring tender beef rolls filled with garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs, slowly braised in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting recipe brings the warmth and flavors of Southern Italy right into your kitchen, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Three rolled meat pieces sit closely on a white plate, each roll showing a spiral of browned meat and light yellowish cheese inside, topped with finely chopped green herbs. The meat outer layer is crispy and dark brown with a slightly rough texture. Underneath, a thick, chunky red tomato sauce pools around the rolls, garnished with small bits of green herbs. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 to 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin and pounded flat

½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup water or broth (as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Lay beef slices flat on a cutting board and gently pound them to about ¼-inch thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Spoon a small amount of filling onto each beef slice. Roll tightly from the short end and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Step 4: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each roll on all sides until browned, then remove and set aside.

Step 5: In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.

Step 6: Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Return the seared beef rolls to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally and adding water or broth as needed to keep the sauce from drying out.

Step 8: Once tender, remove toothpicks or twine. Slice the braciole and serve with the tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

Pound the beef evenly for easy rolling and uniform cooking.

Use fresh herbs like parsley and basil for a bright, aromatic filling.

Don’t rush the braising process; slow cooking ensures tender, flavorful meat.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs.

Try variations by using lamb chops or chicken cutlets instead of beef.

Add sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts to the filling for extra complexity.

Instead of braising, grill the rolls for a Spedini-style Italian beef.

FAQs

Can I make this braciole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the beef rolls a day ahead and refrigerate them. Cook when you’re ready for the freshest flavor and best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by swapping the traditional Italian-style breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Dinner

Authentic Italian Braciole with Herb-Stuffed Beef Rolls in Rich Tomato Sauce Recipe