Introduction:
Beef Rolls with Spinach and Cheese are an irresistible combination of tender beef, savory cheese, and healthy spinach wrapped up into a flavorful, mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal, these rolls are sure to satisfy. The richness of the beef paired with the freshness of spinach and the gooey cheese filling creates a delicious balance of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Rolls:
4 beef top sirloin or flank steak slices (about 1/2-inch thick)
1 cup fresh spinach, wilted (about 2 cups fresh)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Beef:
Lay the beef slices flat on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/4-inch thick) if necessary.
Season both sides of the beef slices with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
Prepare the Filling:
In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine the wilted spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Assemble the Beef Rolls:
Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each beef slice.
Roll up the beef tightly, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Cook the Beef Rolls:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef rolls and sear on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side, until the beef is browned.
Once seared, remove the beef rolls and set them aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add olive oil, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the beef rolls to the pan. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the beef is tender and the cheese inside has melted.
Serve:
Remove the toothpicks or twine from the beef rolls before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve the beef rolls with the tomato sauce spooned over them.
Description:
These Beef Rolls with Spinach and Cheese are an elegant yet easy-to-make dish. The tender beef provides the perfect wrapper for the rich and savory combination of wilted spinach and melted cheese. The tomato-based sauce brings everything together, adding a tangy contrast to the richness of the beef and filling. This dish makes a hearty and satisfying meal, ideal for dinner guests or family night.
Tips:
Even Slicing: If the beef slices are too thick, you can slice them into thinner pieces for easier rolling.
Wilt the Spinach First: Wilting the spinach helps remove excess moisture, preventing the rolls from becoming soggy.
Use Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine: Secure the rolls tightly so they don’t unravel during cooking.
Customize the Cheese: Swap the mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. A mix of cheeses can add extra flavor.
Variations:
Add Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Stuff with Prosciutto: For a touch of savory depth, add a slice of prosciutto or ham to the beef roll.
Spicy Option: Add some red pepper flakes to the spinach filling or the sauce for a little heat.
Grilled Version: If you prefer grilling, you can grill the beef rolls instead of pan-searing them, then serve with the sauce.
Corrections:
Avoid Overcooking the Beef: Beef can quickly become tough if overcooked. Make sure to sear the beef just enough to brown it, and then cook it through on a low simmer to keep it tender.
Don’t Overstuff the Rolls: Be mindful not to overstuff the rolls with the spinach and cheese mixture. Too much filling can cause them to burst open during cooking.
Enjoy:
These Beef Rolls with Spinach and Cheese are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with tender beef, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach all wrapped up in one bite. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad, and enjoy this easy-to-make yet impressive meal!