Italian Style Brazzoli
Italian Style Brazzoli features tender beef cubes simmered in rich tomato sauce with raisins and herbs, offering a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beef in a 1 1/2-quart glass casserole.
- Cover with lid or plastic wrap and microwave on High for 6 minutes.
- Drain the meat.
- Stir in parsley, salt, basil, pepper, garlic, and water; re-cover.
- Microwave on simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and raisins.
- Re-cover and continue cooking on simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until meat is fork-tender.
- Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes in the spices and garlic for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. You can also add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables. For a lighter version, substitute the beef with turkey or chicken, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brazzoli over a bed of cooked spaghetti or noodles for a hearty meal. A side salad or garlic bread complements the dish well. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with Chris' Spaghetti Sauce for a delicious Italian-inspired spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the dish and cover it to prevent drying out. Microwave on low or heat gently on the stove until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Style Brazzoli contains roughly 252 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (140% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1392mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with pork, chicken, or even a plant-based protein. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking times accordingly, as different meats have varying cooking requirements.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat. Alternatively, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of beef for a flavorful twist.
What can I serve this dish with?
This brazzoli is great served over pasta, but you can also try it with rice or polenta for a different experience. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).