Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak bubbling away on the stove. This dish takes me back to childhood dinners at my grandmother’s house, where we would gather around the table, forks poised like eager knights ready to defend their next bite. Swiss steak might not be the fanciest dish on the block, but it holds a special place in my heart (and stomach!). With its tender, flavorful meat simmered in a rich sauce, it’s like a warm hug after a long day. Don’t sweat the details, let me share my secrets, and soon you’ll master this nostalgic classic too.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Imagine a dinner where the main event literally melts in your mouth. The Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is renowned for its ability to transform a simple cut of beef into something truly spectacular. A hearty blend of vegetables—think tender carrots, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions—bathing in a savory broth flavored with Worcestershire that pulls everything together. The best part? It’s all done in one large skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash—and who doesn’t appreciate that?!

What I love about this dish is its versatility. Pair it with mashed potatoes for that classic comfort feel, or load up on hearty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. And let’s not forget the wonderful sense of nostalgia it brings, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me, cooking this dish will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting fragrance that beckons everyone in from wherever they are.

Gather these ingredients

Let’s chat about what you need to create this masterpiece:

• 2 pounds round steak: A reliable cut with enough marbling to keep things juicy without breaking the bank. If you can’t find round steak, chuck roast or sirloin can work in a pinch.

• 1 cup flour: This is your secret weapon for that beautiful crust when you sear the steak. You can also use whole wheat flour if you’re looking for a healthier option.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Use any neutral-flavored oil here—canola, avocado, or grapeseed will do. This helps create that lovely golden color.

• 1 onion: I prefer yellow or sweet onions for their mildness, but a red onion can add a vibrant color twist if that’s more your style.

• 1 green bell pepper: This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a red or yellow bell pepper instead for a hint of sweetness.

• 2 carrots: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, these bring a subtle sweetness that balances the beefiness of the dish.

• 2 cups beef broth: Homemade is best (if you have the time), but store-bought works just fine. Just make sure it’s low sodium so you can control the seasoning!

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: These lend a lovely acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat. Want some more flavor? Try fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.

• Salt and pepper to taste: Essentials for seasoning, don’t forget to taste as you go!

• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm subtle smokiness. Consider smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: The umami gem in this dish that simply can’t be skipped, it ties the whole thing together.

How this recipe comes together

Now on to the fun part—cooking! Follow these steps for a smooth ride to Swiss steak heaven:

1. Start by cutting the round steak into serving-sized pieces. Generously season them with salt and pepper. Give each piece a light dusting in flour, shaking off the excess—this gives your steak that coveted crust when cooking.

2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. It’s time to get that steak sizzling! Brown the steak on both sides, a few minutes per side until they develop a beautiful, deep color. Once browned, set the steak aside (and admire that crust you just created!).

3. With the glorious fond left in the skillet, toss in your sliced onion, bell pepper, and chopped carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step? Absolute magic—it enhances the flavors and creates a delightful base for the stew.

4. Bring the steak back into the mix. Pour in your beef broth and diced tomatoes, and sprinkle in that paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine, then crank the heat until it comes to a gentle boil.

5. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer softly for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking is what makes the meat fall-apart tender. Just check on it every now and then to admire the transformation!

6. When it’s finally done, serve it hot, paired with your favorite sides and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.

Best way to enjoy it

How do you want to serve this beauty? Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Pairings: Fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles soak up the glorious sauce and create a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.

• For Bread Lovers: You can’t go wrong with crusty bread on the side. Just think about all that sauce waiting for some carb companionship!

• Vegetable Boost: Offering steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts brings an extra crunch and color to your plate.

• A Twist: Want to switch things up? Serve it over creamy polenta for a delightful southern twist.

Storage and reheating tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep your Swiss steak in its prime:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

• Reheating: When it’s time to dig back in, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Helpful cooking tips

• Don’t rush the browning of the steak! That deep golden crust adds layers of flavor to your dish.

• Season as you go. It’s easy to skip this, but tasting and adjusting the seasoning throughout the cooking process will elevate your dish significantly.

• Feel free to experiment with the veggies. If you have mushrooms or zucchini on hand, chop them up and throw them in!

Creative Twists

Want to personalize your Swiss steak? Here are a few fun variations:

• Herb-Infused: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves while simmering adds depth and freshness.

• Spicy kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to heat things up.

• Diet-friendly swaps: Swap round steak for chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or use vegetable broth and tofu for a vegetarian version.

Key ingredients

• 2 pounds round steak
• 1 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions to follow

1. Cut round steak into serving pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown steak on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Return steak to skillet. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Your questions answered

1. How much time does this take to prepare?
   Total cooking time is about 2.5 hours but most of that is passive simmering.

2. Can I use a different cut of meat?
   Absolutely! Chuck roast or brisket is a great alternative.

3. Are there any vegetarian options?
   Yes! Use vegetable broth and replace the steak with hearty veggies or plant-based protein.

4. Can I prep this ahead of time?
   For sure! You can prep the veggies and sear the meat a day in advance, then cook it all together when you’re ready.

5. What should I pair with this?
   Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread are perfect. A light salad on the side adds freshness.

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory-maker and a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Not only is it a great way to feed a crowd, but it also fills your home with tantalizing scents that will draw everyone into the kitchen. You’ve got the tools and the know-how—now get out there and whip up your own comforting masterpiece. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—let’s keep this cooking adventure alive together!

Use Your Leftovers

Reduce food waste by making these recipes with your leftover ingredients:

Old-Fashioned Goulash

♻️ Uses leftover tomatoes96%

Print Recipe

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Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 150 hrs

Cooking Temp: medium-high  C Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 450

Best Season: All year round

Description

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a comforting dish made with tender beef simmered in a rich sauce, packed with vegetables and nostalgic flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds round steak (Can substitute with chuck roast or sirloin.)
• 1 cup flour (Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (Any neutral-flavored oil works.)
• 1 medium onion (Yellow or sweet onions preferred.)
• 1 medium green bell pepper (Can use red or yellow for sweetness.)
• 2 medium carrots (Chopped into bite-sized pieces.)
• 2 cups beef broth (Low sodium recommended.)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, consider fire-roasted for flavor.)
• to taste salt (Essential for seasoning.)
• to taste pepper (Essential for seasoning.)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (Smoked paprika can be used for more flavor.)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (Key flavor enhancer.)

Cooking Instructions

Preparation

1. Prepare the Steak

   Cut the round steak into serving pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
   Mark as complete

Cooking

1. Brown the Steak

   In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Brown the steak on both sides, then set aside.
   Do not rush this process to achieve a nice crust.
   Mark as complete

Add Vegetables

1. Sauté Vegetables

   In the same skillet, add sliced onion, bell pepper, and chopped carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   This step enhances the flavors.
   Mark as complete

Combine Ingredients

1. Simmer

   Return steak to skillet. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
   Mark as complete

Final Cooking

1. Slow Cook

   Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
   Check occasionally to admire the cooking process.
   Mark as complete

Serving

1. Serve

   Serve hot with your choice of sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 450kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 28g44%

Saturated Fat 10g50%

Trans Fat 1g

Cholesterol 95mg32%

Sodium 800mg34%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 25g9%

Dietary Fiber 2g8%

Sugars 3g

Protein 35g70%

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Vitamin A 600 IU

Vitamin C 30 mg

Calcium 55 mg

Iron 4 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices as desired.

Keywords: Swiss Steak, comfort food, beef, family recipe, nostalgic