Looking for an easy and delicious slow cooker Braciole recipe? Look no further! Crockpot Braciole is a traditional Italian dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
This savory dish features tender, pounded flank steak filled with a flavorful mixture of beaten eggs, dry bread crumbs, bacon, and shredded Italian cheese blend. Cooked slowly in marinara sauce, this Crockpot Braciole is the epitome of comfort food.
With just 20 minutes of preparation time and 6 hours and 10 minutes of cooking time, this Crockpot Braciole serves 6 people and has a total of 614 calories.
The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and creates a tender and succulent dish that your taste buds won’t forget.
So why wait? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make the best slow cooker Braciole that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Takeaways:
- Crockpot Braciole is a traditional Italian dish made with tender, pounded flank steak filled with a flavorful mixture of eggs, bread crumbs, bacon, and Italian cheese blend.
- Slow cooking the Braciole in marinara sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a tender and succulent dish.
- This Crockpot Braciole recipe serves 6 people and has a total of 614 calories.
- Preparation time is 20 minutes, while cooking time is 6 hours and 10 minutes.
- Enjoy this delicious and comforting dish with your family and friends!
How to Make Crockpot Braciole
Looking for an easy and delicious Italian slow cooker recipe? Look no further than this traditional Crockpot Braciole recipe.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful and tender dish that will impress your family and friends. Follow our step-by-step instructions below and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal.
- Pour marinara sauce into the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine beaten eggs and dry bread crumbs.
- Season the pounded flank steak with salt and pepper.
- Add the bread crumb mixture, bacon, and shredded Italian cheese blend to the flank steak.
- Roll the steak into a tight log and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the rolled steak in the skillet until browned on all sides.
- Transfer the seared steak to the slow cooker with the marinara sauce.
- Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the steak is tender and cooked through.
Once the Braciole is done cooking, remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine and slice the steak into thick rounds. Serve it with the marinara sauce from the slow cooker and enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional Crockpot Braciole.
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 6 hours and 10 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories per Serving | 614 |
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Braciole
Creating a flavorful and tender Crockpot Braciole requires attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:
- Start with a high-quality marinara sauce. A rich and flavorful sauce will elevate the taste of your Braciole.
- Choose a well-marbled flank steak. The marbling adds moisture and enhances the tenderness of the meat.
- Pound the steak to an even thickness. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and allows for easier rolling.
- Tightly roll the steak to keep the filling intact. Secure the roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- Sear the rolled steak before placing it in the slow cooker. This step adds a delicious caramelized crust and enhances the overall flavor of the Braciole.
- Consider making the dish in advance. Braciole is known to taste even better after a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.
By following these tips, you’ll master the art of creating the perfect Crockpot Braciole, impressing your family and guests with its savory goodness.
| Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Braciole |
|---|
| Start with a high-quality marinara sauce. |
| Choose a well-marbled flank steak. |
| Pound the steak to an even thickness. |
| Tightly roll the steak to keep the filling intact. |
| Sear the rolled steak before placing it in the slow cooker. |
| Consider making the dish in advance. |
Variations of Crockpot Braciole
When it comes to Crockpot Braciole, there are countless ways to get creative. By exploring various fillings, alternative ingredients, and serving options, you can customize this classic Italian dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some exciting variations to try:
Variety of Fillings
One of the easiest ways to add a twist to your Crockpot Braciole is by experimenting with different fillings.
While the traditional recipe calls for a combination of bread crumbs, bacon, and cheese, you can get adventurous and incorporate other ingredients such as:
- Provolone or mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy center
- Sautéed spinach or kale to introduce a healthy dose of greens
- Roasted peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweet and tangy flavors
- Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano to enhance the overall aroma
Feel free to mix and match these fillings to create your own unique Braciole masterpiece.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have flank steak on hand or simply want to try something different, there are alternative cuts of beef that work well in Crockpot Braciole. Consider using:
- Round steak: This tender cut can be just as delicious and flavorful as flank steak.
- Sirloin or chuck roast: These cuts have rich marbling, adding an extra depth of flavor to your Braciole.
- Pork loin or chicken breast: If you prefer a lighter option, these meats can be substituted for beef while still delivering a satisfying meal.
Unique Sauces and Accompaniments
While Crockpot Braciole is traditionally served with marinara sauce, you can explore different sauces and accompaniments to elevate the dish even further. Consider serving your Braciole with:
- Alfredo sauce: This creamy and indulgent sauce adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
- Gremolata: A vibrant mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley that cuts through the richness of the Braciole.
- Wine reduction: A reduction made from red wine and beef broth can add a sophisticated and velvety finish to your Braciole.
- Pasta or mashed potatoes: These classic Italian sides are the perfect canvas for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Now that you know the various ways to customize your Crockpot Braciole, let your creativity shine in the kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, these variations will surely impress your taste buds.
Serving and Enjoying Crockpot Braciole
Once your Crockpot Braciole is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and savor this delicious Italian dish. Here are some suggestions for enjoying your slow cooker Braciole:
Garnish and Presentation
Before serving, garnish your Braciole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal. Remember, we eat with our eyes too!
Serving the Marinara Sauce
To serve, slice the cooked Braciole into thick, juicy portions. The sauce that has been simmering in your slow cooker throughout the cooking process is a flavor-packed delight. drizzle a generous ladleful of the marinara sauce over the sliced Braciole to infuse it with extra flavor.
Pairing with Side Dishes
Braciole shines when paired with the right side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement this slow cooker masterpiece:
- Classic Pasta: Serve your Braciole with al dente spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta shape of your choice. Toss the pasta with a little of the marinara sauce from the slow cooker for a perfect match.
- Hearty Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a wonderful contrast to the flavorful Braciole. Spread the potatoes onto your plate, place a slice of Braciole on top, and enjoy the combination of textures and flavors.
- Refreshing Salad: Balance the richness of the Braciole with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice.
Remember, the side dish you choose should complement the flavors of the Braciole and enhance your dining experience.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic Pasta | Al dente pasta tossed with marinara sauce |
| Hearty Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes |
| Refreshing Salad | Crunchy greens, tomatoes, and cucumber with a light vinaigrette dressing |
These side dishes enhance the flavors of the Braciole, ensuring a memorable and satisfying meal.
FAQ
Can I make Crockpot Braciole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make delicious Braciole in a Crockpot using a slow cooker. It’s a convenient and easy way to prepare this traditional Italian dish.
What ingredients do I need for Crockpot Braciole?
To make Crockpot Braciole, you will need marinara sauce, beaten eggs, dry bread crumbs, pounded flank steak, bacon, shredded Italian cheese blend, and vegetable oil.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Braciole?
Crockpot Braciole should be cooked on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. It requires a total of 6 hours and 10 minutes, including preparation time.
What are some tips for making the best Crockpot Braciole?
To make the best Crockpot Braciole, use a high-quality marinara sauce, choose a well-marbled flank steak, pound the steak to an even thickness, tightly roll the steak to keep the filling intact, and sear the rolled steak before placing it in the slow cooker. These tips will ensure a flavorful and tender Braciole.
Are there any variations of Crockpot Braciole?
Yes, there are various ways to customize Crockpot Braciole. You can experiment with different fillings, such as using different cheeses, vegetables, or herbs.
Additionally, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts of beef, such as round steak. The dish can also be served with different sauces or accompaniments, such as pasta or mashed potatoes.
How should I serve and enjoy Crockpot Braciole?
Once cooked, slice the Braciole and serve it with the marinara sauce from the slow cooker. Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness. Crockpot Braciole pairs well with side dishes like pasta or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
After exploring the recipe and preparation steps, it is clear that Crockpot Braciole is a delicious and satisfying dish that can easily be made in a slow cooker.
The combination of flavors from the marinara sauce, cheese, and bacon creates a savory and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Not only is Crockpot Braciole easy to make, but it also offers a versatility that makes it ideal for both family dinners and entertaining guests.
Whether served with pasta or alongside mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to impress with its tender texture and rich taste.
In summary, the slow cooker Braciole recipe provides a flavorful and simple way to enjoy this traditional Italian dish. So why not give it a try?
Prepare Crockpot Braciole using the provided recipe and savor the flavors of this classic dinner. It’s a surefire way to win over your guests or bring joy to your family’s dinner table. Bon appétit!
