There’s something truly comforting about Italian cuisine that brings warmth to the heart and joy to the kitchen. As the aroma of Beef Braciole fills the air, it transports me to sun-drenched family gatherings where laughter mingles with the savory scents of garlic and parsley. This dish, with its tender layers of beef rolled up with prosciutto and a rich, flavorful sauce, is a wonderful way to impress family and friends without spending your whole day in the kitchen.
When I first made this for a dinner party, I was amazed at how something that looks so gourmet can actually come together quite easily. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to escape the monotony of fast food and indulge in a hearty, homemade meal. Whether you choose to cook it in the oven, on the stovetop, or even in a slow cooker, this Beef Braciole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. If you’re ready to take your culinary adventures up a notch, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is Beef Braciole a Must-Try?
Simplicity, this recipe embraces a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master.
Rich, the layers of beef, prosciutto, and aromatic garlic create a depth of flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Versatile, enjoy it baked, stovetop, or in a slow cooker, making it adaptable to your schedule.
Crowd-Pleaser, impress family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet is easy to prepare.
Comforting, it’s a warm hug in a dish, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings—your go-to for breaking away from mundane meals!
Beef Braciole Ingredients
For the Beef Rolls
• Boneless top round – about 2 pounds, ensuring thin slices help it roll easily and stay tender.
• Prosciutto – 12 thin slices add a salty, savory touch that complements the beef beautifully.
• Garlic – 12 large cloves infuse the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor that makes it irresistible.
• Chopped Italian parsley – 1/2 cup brings a fresh burst of color and brightness to the filling.
• Shredded Parmesan or Romano cheese – 1 cup gives a rich, nutty flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
• Seasoned dry breadcrumbs – 2 tablespoons help bind the filling and provide a delightful texture.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – use to taste for that perfect seasoning balance.
For Cooking
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons to brown the beef rolls, adding richness and flavor.
• Dry red wine – 2 cups brings depth to the sauce; choose a full-bodied variety for the best results.
• Beef broth – 2 cups keeps the braising liquid flavorful and supports a rich sauce.
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28-ounce) adds sweetness and acidity, perfect for creating a delicious sauce.
• Dried Italian seasoning – 2 teaspoons enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile with herbs and spices.
• All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons for thickening the sauce to a luxurious consistency.
• Pinch of sugar – if needed, to balance acidity in the sauce, just taste and adjust as necessary.
Enjoy the delightful process of making this Beef Braciole as your kitchen fills with tantalizing aromas, setting the stage for a memorable meal!
How to Make Beef Braciole
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Preheat the oven to 325°F. This step ensures a nicely cooked beef braciole that’s tender and juicy throughout.
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Cut the top-round slices in half widthwise to have 12 equal pieces. Then, pound each piece to a thin 1/4 to 1/8-inch thickness, making them easier to roll.
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Mince 4 cloves of garlic and slice the remaining 8 cloves. The minced garlic will flavor the filling, while the sliced cloves will enhance the sauce.
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Combine minced garlic, parsley, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This mixture creates a deliciously savory filling for your rolls.
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Layer a slice of prosciutto over each piece of beef. Then, sprinkle the prepared filling evenly over the prosciutto for a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Roll each beef piece into a cylinder, tucking in the sides, and secure with toothpicks. This keeps all that delicious filling inside as it cooks.
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Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the beef rolls in batches until browned on all sides, which takes about 5-7 minutes per batch. Transfer to a plate afterward.
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Add wine to the Dutch oven and boil for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Then, stir in beef broth, tomatoes, sliced garlic, and Italian seasoning before returning the beef rolls to the pot. Bring back to a simmer.
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For oven cooking, cover with parchment paper and a lid, then place in the oven for 1 1/2-2 hours, turning the rolls after the first hour to ensure even cooking.
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For stovetop cooking, cover and cook on low for about 1 1/2 hours until tender.
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For slow cooker, adjust timing to cook on high for 3-4 hours, medium for 5-6 hours, or low for 7-8 hours. Choose the option that fits your day!
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Transfer the beef braciole to a platter and remove toothpicks carefully.
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Prepare a slurry with flour and some hot cooking liquid, then stir it back into the pot. Simmer until thickened for a luscious sauce.
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Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and sugar if needed. Pour the sauce over beef rolls and garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for sopping up the rich sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef Braciole
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Choose the Right Beef: Use boneless top round sliced thinly to ensure easy rolling and tenderness. Avoid thicker slices as they can be tough.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning throughout layers is key for a flavor-packed Beef Braciole.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Depending on your method, prioritize tenderness. Overcooking can dry out the beef, so check for doneness through gentle probing.
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Deglaze for Flavor: After browning the beef, make sure to deglaze the Dutch oven with wine. This captures flavors and adds depth to the sauce.
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Thicken Wisely: For a luxurious finish, make a slurry with flour and hot cooking liquid. This avoids lumps and ensures a smooth, delicious sauce.
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Rest Before Serving: Let Beef Braciole sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a moister final dish.
What to Serve with Beef Braciole?
As the savory aroma fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about what delicious sides will complement this hearty main dish.
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Creamy Polenta: This velvety side absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, adding a comforting texture that balances the flavors wonderfully. It’s a classic Italian pairing that feels like a warm hug.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery loaf serves as the perfect vessel for sopping up that flavorful sauce. The garlic and herbs in the bread perfectly echo the dish’s richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and freshness to your table. Their natural sweetness contrasts the savory profile of the beef, adding a delightful twist.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil form a light, refreshing salad that cuts through the richness of the braciole. The vibrant flavors create a perfect balance.
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Risotto: A creamy risotto infused with Parmesan complements the Beef Braciole beautifully, offering a luxurious texture that elevates your meal. The flavor melds seamlessly, creating an indulgent experience.
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Red Wine: Pour a glass of the same dry red wine used in your braciole to enhance the dining experience. It will deepen the flavors of the dish and create a lovely harmony.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, serve classic tiramisu to finish your Italian feast. Its coffee-soaked layers add a touch of sweetness and contrast perfectly with the savory beef, rounding off a memorable meal.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Braciole
Fridge: Store leftover Beef Braciole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, ensuring it’s warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to freeze Beef Braciole, cool completely before wrapping individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating on low heat to maintain tenderness.
Sauce Storage: Keep any extra sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it alongside the braciole for longer shelf life.
Beef Braciole Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on my Beef Braciole recipe that will make it uniquely yours!
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Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the beef with thin slices of turkey or chicken for a lighter dish that’s just as flavorful.
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Cheese Swaps: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. They melt beautifully, adding a creamy texture to each bite.
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Vegetarian: Use thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini in place of meat, layered with the filling for a deliciously hearty vegetarian option.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for a lovely heat that’s sure to excite the palate.
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Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano. Each herb will introduce a new aromatic delight to the dish.
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Nutty Dimensions: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling for added crunch and richness that complements the beef beautifully.
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Slow Cooker Ease: Skip the stovetop browning and place all rolled beef directly into the slow cooker with sauce for a no-fuss approach.
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Citrus Zest: Add a pinch of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a bright, fresh twist that elevates the classic flavors.
Embrace these variations and make this Beef Braciole a reflection of your culinary creativity!
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Braciole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef rolls up to 24 hours in advance by rolling them tightly and securing with toothpicks, then refrigerate them overnight. You can also mix the filling and store it separately in the fridge for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the cooking instructions, placing the beef rolls directly into the Dutch oven or slow cooker as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors without the last-minute rush, preserving the tender texture and rich sauce that makes Beef Braciole a family favorite.
Beef Braciole Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Beef Braciole?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for beef that has a bright red color and is evenly marbled, as this will ensure tenderness and flavor. For garlic, select bulbs that feel firm and have no dark spots. Fresh parsley should be vibrant green, while cheese should be a high-quality block or freshly shredded for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover Beef Braciole?
Very simply! Place leftover Beef Braciole in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often recommend reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the beef tender. Just make sure it’s warmed through before serving!
Can I freeze Beef Braciole for future meals?
Absolutely! Start by cooling the Beef Braciole completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat gently on low heat to maintain that delicious tenderness.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, don’t worry! You can make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of the hot cooking liquid from the pot. Stir this mixture back into the sauce and simmer until thickened, usually about 5-10 minutes. This creates a rich, luxurious texture perfect for pouring over the braciole.
Are there any dietary considerations for Beef Braciole?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Additionally, check the prosciutto and cheese for gluten-free labels if necessary. Always keep in mind to ask your guests about allergies before serving the dish, particularly for dairy and pork, based on the ingredients used.
How long will Beef Braciole remain good in the fridge?
You can enjoy your Beef Braciole for up to 3 days when stored properly in the fridge! Just remember to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and moisture. When reheating, aim for a gentle approach to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Savory Beef Braciole Recipe That Will Wow Your Dinner Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Cut the top-round slices in half widthwise to have 12 equal pieces.
- Pound each piece to a thin 1/4 to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Mince 4 cloves of garlic and slice the remaining 8 cloves.
- Combine minced garlic, parsley, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Layer a slice of prosciutto over each piece of beef.
- Sprinkle the prepared filling evenly over the prosciutto.
- Roll each beef piece into a cylinder, tucking in the sides, and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Cook the beef rolls in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Transfer to a plate afterward.
- Add wine to the Dutch oven and boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in beef broth, tomatoes, sliced garlic, and Italian seasoning before returning the beef rolls to the pot.
- Bring back to a simmer.
- Cover with parchment paper and a lid, then place in the oven for 1 1/2-2 hours.
- Turn the rolls after the first hour.
- For stovetop cooking, cover and cook on low for about 1 1/2 hours.
- For slow cooker, adjust timing to cook on high for 3-4 hours, medium for 5-6 hours, or low for 7-8 hours.
- Transfer the beef braciole to a platter and remove toothpicks carefully.
- Prepare a slurry with flour and some hot cooking liquid, then stir it back into the pot.
- Simmer until thickened for a luscious sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and sugar if needed.
- Pour the sauce over beef rolls and garnish with parsley.