The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender cubed steak with rich tomato gravy. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Its savory flavors and hearty ingredients make it suitable for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Enjoy the nostalgic taste of this classic dish that never goes out of style!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor – The combination of savory beef and rich tomato gravy creates a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Pairing – Serve it with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a complete meal that fits various preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a large batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, saving time on future meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser – This dish is ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, impressing guests with its delicious flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this mouthwatering recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven
• Large resealable plastic bag
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven – Ideal for browning meat evenly and retaining heat during baking.
• Large resealable plastic bag – Perfect for coating the steak with flour, ensuring an even distribution without a mess.

Ingredients

This Smothered Swiss Steak recipe is old-fashioned comfort food at its best! Tender cubed steak slowly braised in savory tomato gravy with mushrooms, peppers, and onions. Perfect for cozy family dinners!

For the Coating

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

For the Steak

• 2 pounds cubed steak or round steak (cut into serving-size pieces if necessary)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or other high-temperature cooking oil)

For the Vegetables

• 1 onion, diced
• 1-2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces of cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced or stewed tomatoes (or use 1 pint of home-canned tomatoes)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 pinch celery seed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of water + 2 tablespoons cornstarch

How to Make The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Coating

Combine flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic in a large resealable plastic bag.
– Add the steak pieces a few at a time.
– Shake gently to coat evenly.
– Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Steaks

Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Brown steaks on both sides until they form a nice crust.
– Transfer them to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Lower heat to medium and add onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the same pot.
– Sauté vegetables for 6–7 minutes until they soften.
– Add more oil if necessary.
– Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients for Gravy

Pour diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, sugar, and celery seed into the pot.
– Stir gently while scraping flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
– Return browned steaks to the pot so they are fully submerged in sauce.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Cover and bake in the preheated oven for 1½ to 2 hours until meat is fork-tender.
– Carefully remove pot from oven and transfer steaks to a plate; leave gravy in pot.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
– Stir this slurry into the gravy.
– Place pot back onto stovetop; bring gravy to gentle boil over medium heat while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Serve steaks generously topped with gravy alongside mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or cooked white rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Serving the best old-fashioned Swiss steak is all about complementing its rich flavors and tender texture. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will surely impress your family and guests.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a perfect canvas for the savory gravy, soaking up every delicious drop.

Over Buttered Egg Noodles

• The tender steak and flavorful gravy served over buttered egg noodles create a comforting and hearty meal.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed vegetables add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the richness of the Swiss steak.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving Swiss steak over fluffy white rice allows you to enjoy each bite while soaking up the savory sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up leftover gravy, adding a satisfying crunch to the meal.

Paired with a Simple Salad

• A light green salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the heavy, savory flavors of the steak.

How to Perfect The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Swiss steak, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled cubed or round steak for better tenderness and flavor as it cooks.
• Sear Properly: Ensure you brown the meat well; this step adds depth and enhances the overall taste through caramelization.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; adjust salt or pepper according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned dish.
• Slow Cook for Tenderness: The longer you braise the steak, the more tender it becomes. Aim for at least 1½ hours in the oven.
• Thicken Your Gravy: Use cornstarch slurry carefully to achieve your desired gravy consistency without lumps.
• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked steak to rest before serving; this helps retain juices for a more succulent bite.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Swiss steak can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes blended with garlic create an ideal match, enhancing each bite of steak.
2. Sauteed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic offer a fresh contrast to the rich gravy.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a natural sweetness that balances out the savory notes of the dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and brightness, cutting through the hearty flavors of Swiss steak.
5. Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn complements any meaty main dish while bringing a touch of summer freshness.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives make for a satisfying side option.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing offers a nutritious counterpoint to heavier dishes.
8. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach pairs well with beef, adding creaminess that matches well with Swiss steak’s gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Every cook can benefit from knowing some common pitfalls when making Swiss Steak. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the meat: This can lead to tough steak. Make sure to follow the recommended cooking time for tender results.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the steak can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to sear the meat well before braising.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned dishes can be bland. Don’t forget to season your flour and add enough salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap, low-quality broth or canned tomatoes can affect the dish’s overall taste. Always choose high-quality products for optimal flavor.
• Not making a gravy: A good Swiss Steak is known for its rich gravy. Be sure to create a thickened sauce at the end for serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Swiss Steak can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the dish with foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe:

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute cubed chicken breast or thighs, but adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking.

What sides pair well with Swiss Steak?

Mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or cooked rice complement this dish beautifully.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the gravy as it simmers on the stovetop.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This recipe tastes even better after sitting overnight, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is an ideal choice for cozy family dinners. Its tender meat and savory tomato gravy make it a comforting meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy this classic dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, a comforting classic that brings families together around the dinner table. This delightful dish features tender cubed steak smothered in a rich tomato gravy, complemented by savory vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of this hearty meal that promises satisfaction in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds cubed steak or round steak
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1–2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 pinch celery seed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of water + 2 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. In a resealable plastic bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic. Add steak pieces and shake to coat.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Brown steaks on both sides and set aside.
4. Sauté onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms in the same pot for about 6-7 minutes until softened; stir in garlic and tomato paste.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and thyme; return steaks to pot.
6. Cover and bake for 1½ to 2 hours until meat is tender.
7. For thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg