Involtini di Carne | Italian Beef Rolls with Ham, Cheese & Cherry Tomatoes

These involtini are juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavour. Thin slices of beef rolled with ham and cheese, cooked in a cherry tomato and garlic base, and deglazed with a splash of beer — simple, rustic, and full of Italian soul.

Watch the Recipe

About This Dish

Involtini di Carne is a classic Southern Italian recipe that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Thin beef slices are wrapped around ham and cheese, seared until golden, then simmered gently in cherry tomatoes with garlic. The splash of beer adds depth and rustic charm, making this dish hearty yet elegant — perfect with crusty bread or mashed potatoes on the side.

Ingredients

How to Make It

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 40 mins

• Step 1: Lay out the beef slices and top each with ham and cheese.
• Step 2: Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
• Step 3: Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic, then brown the involtini on all sides.
• Step 4: Stir in tomato paste, add cherry tomatoes, and deglaze with beer.
• Step 5: Simmer gently until the beef is tender and the sauce rich. Season with salt and serve hot.

Tucci’s Tips

• Ask your butcher to slice the beef thin for easier rolling.
• Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the rolls tight while cooking.
• Let the sauce reduce slightly before serving for extra flavour intensity.

Variations

• Wine Instead of Beer: Use white wine for a lighter flavour or red wine for depth.
• Stuffing Options: Swap ham and cheese for spinach and ricotta.
• Oven-Baked: Place the rolls in a baking dish with sauce and bake until tender.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: Involtini dishes are common across Italy, but in the south they often feature rustic fillings and cooking methods passed down through generations.

Fun Fact: The word "involtini" means "little rolls" in Italian, and they can be made with meat, vegetables, or even fish.

Share Your Dish!

Did you try this recipe? Share a photo on Instagram or TikTok and tag @cooking.with.tucci, or leave a comment below on the blog. I’d love to see your creations!

Follow Me

Storage & Thank You

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can it be frozen? Yes, freeze cooked involtini for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in sauce for best results.

Support My Work

If you love this recipe and want to support authentic Italian cooking, consider supporting me on Ko-fi.