Thin beef slices stuffed with a savory breadcrumb-Parmesan filling, rolled, seared, and simmered in a rich tomato basil sauce—perfect for Sunday dinner or a cozy family meal!
Servings & Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Tags: High-Protein, Italian, Family Dinner
📝 Ingredients
For the Beef Braciole:
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1 lb thin beef slices (top round or flank steak)
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Kitchen twine or toothpicks
For the Sauce:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cups crushed tomatoes
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Filling
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In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
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Lay beef slices flat.
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Spoon some of the breadcrumb mixture onto each slice.
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Roll up tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
Step 3: Sear the Braciole
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the beef rolls until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes total). Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
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In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until soft (3–4 minutes).
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Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Step 5: Simmer
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Return the beef rolls to the pan, spoon some sauce over them.
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Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour, turning occasionally.
Step 6: Serve
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Remove twine or toothpicks.
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Serve with pasta, polenta, or a side of roasted vegetables.
💡 Notes & Tips
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Thin beef tip: If beef slices are too thick, pound them thinner with a meat mallet.
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Shortcut: Use jarred marinara sauce if you’re short on time.
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Breadcrumb swap: Use whole wheat or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
(Suggested photos: making filling → rolling beef → searing → simmering in sauce → plated dish)
Pro Tip: Braciole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld—perfect for meal prep!
🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps
Why these ingredients?
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Beef & Parmesan: Classic Italian pairing offering hearty flavor and richness.
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Breadcrumbs & garlic: Provide texture and aromatic depth.
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Tomatoes & herbs: A simple but flavorful sauce that complements the beef.
Substitutions:
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Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
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Use turkey or chicken cutlets for a lighter version.
🎨 Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Add-Ins:
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Add chopped prosciutto or pine nuts to the filling.
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Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve over spaghetti or creamy polenta.
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Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze cooked braciole with sauce for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per serving estimate)**
Calories: ~370 kcal | Protein: ~30g | Carbs: ~15g | Fat: ~22g
W-W Points (per serving):
➡️ 7 Points
Lightened version (using 95% lean beef and less olive oil):
➡️ 5 Points
W-W Points will vary depending on beef cut, breadcrumb type, and cheese. For best accuracy, enter your specific ingredients into the W-W app.
Allergens: Wheat (breadcrumbs), Milk (Parmesan cheese)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes—after searing, place braciole and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and confirm your crushed tomatoes are gluten-free.
Q: Can I stuff with spinach or other veggies?
A: Definitely! Spinach or sautéed mushrooms are great additions to the filling.
📝 The Story Behind the Recipe
Beef braciole is a classic comfort food in many Italian-American homes. I first made this dish for a family Sunday dinner, and it instantly became a tradition. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a hands-off simmer make it both impressive and surprisingly easy!
🗨️ Let’s Chat!
Did you make this Beef Braciole? Did you add your own twist? Drop a comment or tag me—I’d love to see your version!