If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia, this Old Fashioned Swiss Steak recipe is just what you need. This timeless dish takes a tough cut of meat and transforms it into a tender, juicy masterpiece through slow cooking and simple, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Old Fashioned Swiss Steak is easy to make and sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made on the stovetop, in the oven, or even in a crockpot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and Juicy: The slow-cooking process ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender.
- Rich Flavor: A savory blend of onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes creates a delicious gravy.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Make it on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a crockpot.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses an affordable cut of meat like round steak.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Tools Needed
To make this Old Fashioned Swiss Steak, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools are crucial for tenderizing the meat, prepping the ingredients, and cooking the dish to perfection. Don’t have everything on hand? Visit Our Shop to stock up on high-quality cooking essentials.
- Meat Mallet: For tenderizing the steak.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For prepping the vegetables and trimming the meat.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: To brown the meat and simmer the dish.
- Tongs or Spatula: For flipping and handling the steak.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
- Optional: Crockpot or baking dish with foil for alternative cooking methods.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 2-3 pounds round steak (about ½ inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (for browning)
For the Vegetables and Sauce:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning (optional)
Optional Side:
- Green peas, cooked in broth for extra flavor
Directions
- Prepare the Steak: Lay the round steak on a cutting board. Trim excess fat, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Tenderize the Meat: Lightly dredge the steak in flour. Use a meat mallet to pound the steak until it starts to break down and lose its shape (about 5-10 minutes per steak).
- Brown the Steak: Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the steak on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the sliced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Steak Back: Place the browned steak back into the skillet, nestling it into the vegetables.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and steak seasoning over the steak. Add the diced tomatoes, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Ensure the liquid just covers the steak.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on low heat for 1 hour. Flip the steak, then simmer for another hour until the meat is fork-tender.
- Optional Oven Method: Alternatively, transfer the steak and sauce to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 2-2.5 hours.
- Serve: Plate the Swiss steak with mashed potatoes and green peas. Spoon the gravy over the steak and potatoes for extra flavor.
Expert Tips For Perfect Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
- Tenderize Thoroughly: Pounding the steak is key to breaking down the tough fibers—don’t skip this step!
- Trim the Fat: Removing excess fat helps the meat tenderize more evenly.
- Use Room Temperature Meat: Let the steak sit out for 20-30 minutes before tenderizing for easier pounding.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for a longer time ensures the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Check Liquid Levels: Make sure the steak is mostly covered in liquid to prevent drying out.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (stovetop) or 2-2.5 hours (oven)
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Tenderizing Enough: Skipping or rushing the pounding step can result in tough meat.
- High Heat Cooking: Avoid cooking on high heat, as it can toughen the meat further.
- Burning the Garlic: Add the garlic after the onions and peppers to prevent it from becoming bitter.
- Insufficient Liquid: Ensure the steak is mostly covered in liquid to keep it moist.
- Not Flipping the Steak: Flipping halfway through cooking ensures even tenderness.
Variations
- Different Cuts: Use cube steak for a quicker option (reduce cooking time).
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mushroom Addition: Stir in sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging and thickening.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock if needed to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked Swiss steak in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, cube steak or chuck steak can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly. - How tender should the steak be?
It should be fork-tender—no knife needed! - Can I make this in a crockpot?
Absolutely! Brown the steak first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours. - What if I don’t have a meat mallet?
Use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet to tenderize the meat. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, carrots, celery, or mushrooms make great additions.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Swiss Steak is a true comfort food classic, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals with its tender, flavorful meat and rich gravy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite. Don’t forget to share your experience with us!
