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Giada’s Braciole Recipe

Sara Collins
Giada’s Braciole Recipe is a rich and comforting Italian classic made with thin beef, cheese, herbs and slow cooked tomato sauce. This dish looks special but is simple to prepare at home.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Dutch oven or heavy pot
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat mallet
  • Kitchen twine
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 6 thin beef top round slices
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • ½ cup dry red wine
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions
 

1. Prepare the Beef

  • Place the beef slices on a cutting board. Pound them gently with a meat mallet until thin and even. This helps the meat cook evenly and roll easily without tearing.

2. Make the Filling

  • In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until combined. This filling adds rich flavor inside the beef rolls.

3. Add the Cheese

  • Sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese over each beef slice. Then spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top. Leave a small border around the edges so filling does not fall out.

4. Roll and Tie

  • Carefully roll each beef slice tightly from one end to the other. Secure each roll with kitchen twine. This keeps the braciole closed while cooking in sauce.

5. Sear the Beef

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef rolls and brown on all sides. This step locks in flavor and gives a beautiful golden color.

6. Add Wine and Sauce

  • Pour red wine into the pan and let it simmer for two minutes. Add marinara sauce and stir gently. Make sure the rolls are covered well with sauce.

7. Slow Cook

  • Transfer everything to a Dutch oven. Cover and cook on low heat for about 90 minutes. The beef becomes tender and absorbs the rich tomato flavor slowly.

8. Rest and Serve

  • Remove the braciole from the pot. Let them rest for five minutes. Cut off the twine carefully. Slice and serve with extra sauce on top.

Notes

  • Pound the beef thin for tender results.
  • Do not overfill the rolls.
  • Brown the meat well for deep flavor.
  • Cook slowly for soft and juicy beef.
  • Use fresh parsley for better taste.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
  • Reheat gently on low heat with extra sauce if needed.
Keyword Giada’s Braciole Recipe