Traditional Italian beef roulade sliced to show stuffed layers with tomato sauce and basil garnish
Traditional Italian beef roulade sliced to show stuffed layers with tomato sauce and basil garnish

Why Nana’s Italian Roulade is a Must-Try Dish

If you love hearty, flavorful Italian comfort food, Nana’s Italian Roulade (Involtini) deserves a spot on your table. This classic dish features thinly sliced beef or pork rolled around a rich filling of cheese, herbs, and cured meats, then slow-cooked in a savory tomato sauce.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or impressing guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with homestyle simplicity. Plus, it’s easier to make than you think!

The Origins of Italian Roulade

Italian roulade (or Involtini) has roots in Southern Italian cuisine, where frugal home cooks transformed affordable cuts of meat into luxurious dishes. The technique of rolling and braising ensures tender, juicy results every time.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh ingredients for authentic Italian roulade including beef, prosciutto and Parmesan
  • Thin-cut beef or pork (top round, flank steak, or veal scallopini)
  • Prosciutto or pancetta (for salty depth)
  • Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs (parsley, basil, garlic)
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure rolls)
  • Tomato passata or wine (for braising liquid)

How to Make Nana’s Italian Roulade (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Meat

  • Pound thin-cut beef to ¼-inch thickness (use a meat mallet).
  • Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.

2. Make the Filling

  • Mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic, and prosciutto.
  • Add a thin layer of filling over each slice.

3. Roll & Secure

Proper technique for rolling and tying Italian roulade
  • Tightly roll each slice, securing with toothpicks or twine.

4. Sear & Braise

  • Brown rolls in olive oil (2-3 mins per side).
  • Simmer in tomato sauce (30-40 mins) until tender.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra richness, add a splash of red wine to the sauce!

Why This Dish is a Crowd-Pleaser

✅ Elegant Yet Simple – Looks gourmet but is beginner-friendly.
✅ Versatile – Swap fillings with spinach & ricotta or mushrooms & fontina.
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Tastes even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

  • With Pasta: Toss with pappardelle or gnocchi.
  • As a Main: Serve with roasted potatoes and sautéed greens.
  • Wine Pairing: Chianti or Sangiovese for acidity.

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