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Barefoot Contessa Beef Braciole Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Beef Braciole

Barefoot Contessa Beef Braciole is a rolled beef dish made with thinly sliced flank steak stuffed with a savory filling of breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, and cheese. The rolls are seared to lock in flavor and then braised in a robust tomato sauce until tender and infused with delicious aromas.

Ingredients

  • Flank steak: About 1.5 pounds, pounded thin.
  • Breadcrumbs: Fresh or panko, for a hearty filling.
  • Parmesan cheese: Grated, for added richness.
  • Garlic: Minced, to infuse the filling with flavor.
  • Parsley: Fresh, chopped finely for brightness.
  • Egg: To bind the filling.
  • Olive oil: For searing the beef.
  • Tomato sauce: Homemade or store-bought, for braising.
  • Red wine: Adds depth to the sauce.
  • Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
  • Kitchen twine: To secure the rolls during cooking.

Instructions

  • Prepare the flank steak: Lay the steak flat on a cutting board, pound it to an even thickness, and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Make the filling: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, egg, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix until it forms a moist, cohesive mixture.
  • Assemble the Braciole: Spread the filling evenly over the steak, leaving a small border. Roll the steak tightly and secure it with kitchen twine at regular intervals.
  • Sear the beef rolls: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef rolls on all sides to lock in the flavor, then remove and set aside.
  • Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add a splash of red wine to deglaze the pan. Stir in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
  • Simmer the Braciole: Return the beef rolls to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, turning occasionally, until the beef is tender.
  • Serve and enjoy: Remove the twine, slice the Braciole into pinwheels, and serve with the sauce over pasta or alongside crusty bread.