Italian Braciole with Prosciutto and Parmesan

Tender Beef Rolls Stuffed with Prosciutto, Parmesan, and Herbs, Simmered in a Rich Tomato Sauce

There’s something about a slow-cooked, homemade Italian meal that just hits differently—like being transported to Nonna’s kitchen. This Italian Braciole with Prosciutto and Parmesan is one of those dishes. Juicy beef rolled with savory prosciutto, nutty Parmesan, and fresh herbs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s the perfect comfort food for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or any time you want a taste of Italy at home.

Ingredients

For the Braciole:

• 4 thin slices of beef top round or flank steak (about 1/4 inch thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices prosciutto
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Kitchen twine or toothpicks (for rolling)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp dried basil or a few fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Lay the beef slices flat on a cutting board. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano.
2. Stuff the Braciole:
   Place one slice of prosciutto on each beef slice. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Roll each slice tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
3. Brown the Braciole:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef rolls on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add basil and red pepper flakes, season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
5. Simmer the Braciole:
   Return the beef rolls to the sauce. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the beef is tender. Turn occasionally to coat with sauce.
6. Serve:
   Remove the braciole from the sauce, discard twine/toothpicks. Slice the rolls and serve with sauce on top. Perfect with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Use spinach or roasted peppers inside the rolls for a veggie twist.

• Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

• For an extra cozy touch, serve with garlic bread and a glass of red wine.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is not just food—it’s nostalgia on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re sitting at a family table in Italy, surrounded by laughter, love, and the aroma of something magical cooking on the stove.