Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe
If you’re craving something truly comforting that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen, this Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for company but is actually pretty straightforward to make. The magic happens with tender beef rolled around fragrant, fresh herbs and garlic—braised slowly in a luscious tomato sauce until everything is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
What I love about this Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you just want to impress your taste buds, it pairs beautifully with pasta or creamy mashed potatoes. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building those wonderful layers of flavor. From the fresh herbs to the slow-cooked tomato sauce, you’ll want to use quality items for the best results. Don’t forget to grab flank steak or sirloin sliced really thin — it’s what makes rolling the braciole a breeze!
- Flank steak or sirloin: Opt for thinly sliced, tender cuts that pound flat easily for rolling.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds a lovely binding texture inside the roll; try to use fresh or high-quality store-bought.
- Fresh parsley: I find fresh parsley really brightens the filling and complements the herbs.
- Fresh basil: There’s nothing like fresh basil for that authentic Italian aroma.
- Garlic: Both minced for the filling and sauce—the more the merrier!
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring balance to the beef and herbs.
- Olive oil: Use good extra virgin olive oil for searing and sautéing; it infuses wonderful flavor.
- Small onion: Adds sweetness to the sauce; finely chopped for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Crushed tomatoes: Canned works beautifully here, but choose a quality brand for rich flavor.
- Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that deepens the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Sugar (optional): Just a pinch to balance acidity in the sauce, especially if your tomatoes are very tangy.
- Water or broth: Helps keep the sauce luscious during the slow braise without drying out.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe is how easy it is to tweak depending on what you like or have on hand. Feel free to experiment—making it your own just adds to the fun.
- Cheese-filled braciole: I sometimes add a thin layer of grated Parmesan or pecorino inside the roll for extra richness—it’s a total game-changer.
- Gluten-free option: Substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones works perfectly, so no one misses out.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce if you want a little heat.
- Seasonal herbs: Swap out basil and parsley for rosemary or thyme in cooler months for a cozy flavor.
How to Make Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound Your Beef Thin
Start by laying out your flank steak or sirloin slices on a sturdy cutting board. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them down to about ¼-inch thickness. This not only tenderizes the meat but also makes rolling a breeze. I like to cover the slices with plastic wrap while pounding to avoid any mess. Even thickness means your braciole will cook consistently every time, which is a nice little win.
Step 2: Mix the Herb Breadcrumb Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix so the flavors meld together nicely. This herby, garlicky filling is what makes the braciole so special—make sure you don’t skimp on the fresh herbs if you can help it!
Step 3: Roll and Secure Your Braciole
Spoon a small, even amount of the breadcrumb mixture onto each slice of beef. Starting from one edge, roll tightly to encase the filling. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls firmly, so they don’t unravel during cooking. Don’t rush this part—tight rolls will hold together better and look prettier when sliced.
Step 4: Sear the Rolls to Lock in Flavor
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the braciole and brown them on all sides—it should take about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This caramelization adds a beautiful depth of flavor to the finished dish, so don’t skip it! Once nicely browned, remove the rolls and set aside.
Step 5: Build the Tomato Sauce
Add the remaining olive oil to the pot and reduce heat to medium. Toss in the finely chopped onion and garlic, sautéing just until fragrant and soft. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in dried oregano, salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of sugar if you like to balance the acidity. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
Step 6: Braise the Braciole Low and Slow
Carefully nestle the seared braciole back into the pot with the tomato sauce. Pour in half a cup of water or broth to keep things moist. Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting everything simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Turn the rolls occasionally and add more liquid as needed. The slow braise is where the magic happens, transforming the meat into fork-tender deliciousness.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once your braciole are tender and fragrant, carefully remove the toothpicks or twine. Slice the rolls into beautiful rounds and spoon the rich tomato sauce over the top. Whether you pile it over freshly cooked pasta, creamy polenta, or buttery mashed potatoes, it’s an unbeatable dinner that feels like a warm hug.
How to Serve Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe

Garnishes
I usually finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a scatter of chopped fresh basil or parsley. It brightens the plate and adds an eye-catching pop of color. A drizzle of good olive oil on top right before serving also gives it a silky gloss that makes everyone at the table smile.
Side Dishes
I love pairing this braciole with homemade spaghetti or linguine tossed in olive oil and garlic to keep it simple. Creamy mashed potatoes or soft polenta are fantastic for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Roasted seasonal veggies like asparagus or green beans also add a wonderful balance and color contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve the sliced braciole standing upright on a platter with fresh herb sprigs scattered around for an elegant touch. Another fun idea is layering the slices over baked polenta cakes, creating a beautiful two-texture presentation that guests love. It’s anything but ordinary!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftovers in an airtight glass container in the fridge, and they usually last up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Just keep the braciole with plenty of sauce to maintain moisture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully—I portion the braciole and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce saucy and the meat tender. Microwave works in a pinch, but I find slow reheating preserves the texture best.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of beef for this braciole recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin are ideal because they pound thin and roll easily, you can also try top round or eye of round. Just make sure to slice the meat thin and pound evenly to ensure tenderness and easy rolling.
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Is it necessary to sear the braciole before braising?
It’s highly recommended because searing caramelizes the meat’s surface, adding rich flavor and creating a beautiful color. Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful and visually less appealing dish.
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Can I prepare braciole in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?
Yes! After searing, transfer the rolls and sauce to a slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours. Just make sure to check the liquid level occasionally to prevent drying out.
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How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while cooking?
Securing the braciole with toothpicks or kitchen twine tightly before cooking is key. Make sure to roll firmly and tuck the ends under. This keeps the filling snug and stops them from coming apart during the braise.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the rolls a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Braise them on cooking day or cook fully and reheat gently later—it’s great for meal planning and entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it embodies the heart of Italian home cooking: simple ingredients, slow-cooked love, and unforgettable flavor. When I make it, the house fills with mouthwatering aromas that feel like a warm welcome. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—because good food is all about making memories and savoring every bite.
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Authentic Braciole Recipe With Herb-Roasted Goodness Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Authentic Braciole Recipe features thinly sliced flank steak rolled with a fragrant herb and breadcrumb filling, browned to perfection, then slow-simmered in a rich tomato sauce until tender. Perfectly suited for serving over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes, this traditional Italian dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth goodness with herb-roasted flavors.
Ingredients
For the Braciole Filling and Rolls
- 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)
For the Sauce
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Lay beef slices out on a cutting board and pound them to about ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and tenderness throughout.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors evenly.
- Roll the Braciole: Spoon a small amount of the breadcrumb-herb mixture onto each flattened slice of beef. Roll the beef tightly around the filling and secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to maintain shape during cooking.
- Sear the Rolls: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear each braciole roll on all sides until nicely browned. Once browned, remove the rolls from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Prepare Sauce: In the same Dutch oven, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Braise the Braciole: Return the seared braciole rolls to the pot with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally to cook evenly. Add water or broth as needed to keep the sauce from drying out.
- Serve: Once cooked until tender, remove the toothpicks or twine from the rolls. Slice the braciole and serve it warm with the tomato sauce over your choice of pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Pound the beef evenly to ensure it is tender and easy to roll.
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant and aromatic flavor.
- Do not rush the braising process; slow cooking results in melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with sauce to maintain moisture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Keywords: Braciole, Italian beef rolls, herb roasted, tomato sauce, braised beef, Italian main dish, flank steak recipe
