Nana’s Italian Roulade is a cherished family recipe that brings the rich, comforting flavors of Italy to your table in a beautifully presented dish. This roulade features tender beef rolled around a savory filling of Italian sausage, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan, creating a delightful swirl of flavors in every slice. The roulade is then slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender and the filling has absorbed all the delicious juices. Whether served as a special Sunday dinner or a festive holiday meal, Nana’s Italian Roulade is a true labor of love that brings warmth and tradition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Roulade:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef flank steak, pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian sausage, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Roulade:
- Lay the pounded flank steak flat on a clean surface. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the steak, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one short end, tightly roll up the steak, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a roulade. Secure the roulade with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Sear the Roulade:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the roulade on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the roulade from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Cook the Roulade:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the seared roulade in a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over it. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve:
- Remove the roulade from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully slice the roulade into rounds, revealing the beautiful spiral of filling. Serve with the tomato sauce spooned over the top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Nana’s Italian Roulade is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender beef, savory sausage filling, and rich tomato sauce makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
