Sicilian Involtini

Sicilian Involtini

Sicilian Involtini with Veal and Mozzarella

When you think of classic Italian comfort food, Sicilian involtini instantly comes to mind. These irresistible veal rolls—filled with breadcrumbs, cheese, and fresh herbs—bring bold flavor and the warmth of Sicilian kitchens straight to your table.

Involtini means “little bundles” in Italian, and Sicily gives this dish its signature flair. Instead of chicken or beef, Sicilians often use tender veal cutlets, pounded thin for easy rolling. They fill each one with a rustic mix of breadcrumbs, pecorino cheese, parsley, and olive oil—simple ingredients that reflect the heart of Sicilian cooking.

Why You’ll Love Sicilian Involtini

Sicilian involtini offers more than a comforting meal. The outside turns golden and crisp, while the center melts into a cheesy, herb-filled bite. You’ll bake the rolls quickly in a hot oven, then serve them over a rich layer of marinara sauce and finish with a drizzle of flavorful pan juices.

Planning a Sunday family dinner or hosting guests? This dish delivers big on presentation and taste—and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

Tips for the Best Involtini

  • Switch up the cheese: Try fontina or provolone for a flavorful twist.

  • Prep ahead: Assemble the rolls earlier in the day and bake just before serving.

  • Try grilling: Prefer smoky flavor? Grill the involtini instead of baking.

Making Sicilian involtini doesn’t just satisfy your appetite—it connects you to generations of Sicilian home cooks who embraced simple ingredients and bold flavor. Pair the dish with a glass of Nero d’Avola or crisp white wine like Grillo, and enjoy an authentic Sicilian experience right from your kitchen. Thanks to our partner Daniela’s Dish for this Sicilian Classic!

Ingredients

  • 8 veal cutlets, pounded thin
  • 1½ cups plain breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup grated pecorino cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling and spraying
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 slices
  • Marinara sauce, warmed, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, pecorino, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the ½ cup olive oil and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly.
  3. Lay the veal cutlets flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the breadcrumb mixture in the center of each cutlet. Place a slice of mozzarella on top of the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Starting from the narrower end, carefully roll up each veal cutlet around the filling, tucking in the sides if possible. Secure each roll with a toothpick to hold it together.
  5. Lightly drizzle or spray each roll with olive oil, then gently roll them in the remaining breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides.
  6. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Spray or drizzle the tops with a little more olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Spoon a layer of warm marinara sauce onto a serving platter. Arrange the veal involtini on top. Drizzle any pan juices or cooking liquid over the top for extra flavor.
  8. Optional garnish: Sprinkle with additional chopped parsley or grated pecorino before serving, if desired.

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