Description
Giada’s Braciole is a comforting, herb-filled Italian classic — tender beef rolls simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Infused with fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan, this authentic recipe brings the warmth of Italy to your table for an unforgettable dinner experience.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Braciole Rolls:
- 1 ½ pounds top round or flank steak, sliced thinly (about ¼-inch thick)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and mix until crumbly.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay beef slices flat, season with salt and pepper, and spread the filling evenly. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the Braciole: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the rolls on all sides to lock in flavor.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Braise Slowly: Return braciole to the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1½–2 hours until the meat is tender.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks, slice into rounds, and top with sauce and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat until hot.
- Tips for Success: Use thin, even slices of beef for easier rolling. Don’t skip searing — it builds rich flavor before braising.
- Variations: Try pork or lamb braciole, or even eggplant for a vegetarian version. Add a splash of red wine or vinegar for extra depth in the sauce.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with spaghetti, polenta, or garlic bread for a full Italian meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Giada’s Braciole, Italian Beef Rolls, Herb Braised Meat, Traditional Italian Dinner, Braciole Recipe