The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

This The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any dinner table. With tender cubed steak braised in a rich tomato gravy, it’s ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals. The combination of savory flavors from mushrooms, peppers, and onions makes this recipe a standout choice that you’ll love to share with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: This recipe embodies what comfort food should be, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can master this dish without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a complete meal that suits every palate.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of hearty vegetables and spices creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the steak.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the 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: Retains heat well and ensures even cooking for tender steak.
• Large resealable plastic bag: Makes coating the steak with flour mess-free and easy to handle.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables, which contributes to even cooking.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

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 and Vegetables

• 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)
• 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)

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons 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. This ensures that your dish cooks evenly throughout its baking time.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Coating

1. Combine flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic in a large resealable plastic bag.
2. Add steak pieces a few at a time into the flour mixture; shake gently to coat evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Steak

1. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown steaks on both sides until they form a nice crust; transfer them to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 5: Create the Sauce

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

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Cover and bake in preheated oven for 1½ to 2 hours until meat is fork-tender.
Once done, carefully remove pot from oven; transfer steaks to a plate while leaving gravy behind.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
Stir this slurry into the gravy in the pot. Return pot to stovetop over medium heat; bring gravy to gentle boil 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 for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Serving your Swiss steak is just as important as preparing it. The rich flavors and tender meat pair well with a variety of sides that enhance the overall dining experience.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy from the Swiss steak, creating a comforting plate.

Over Buttered Egg Noodles

• Serve the steak over a bed of buttered egg noodles for a satisfying meal. The noodles add a nice texture and absorb the sauce beautifully.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans offer a fresh contrast to the hearty steak, balancing out the meal.

Paired with Rice

• Cooked white rice is another great option, providing a neutral base that allows the flavors of the Swiss steak to shine through.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll can be used to mop up any remaining gravy, making sure no flavor goes to waste.

As Part of a Salad Plate

• For lighter fare, serve slices of Swiss steak alongside a simple garden salad. This provides freshness and crunch to complement the dish.

How to Perfect The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

To ensure your Swiss steak turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind for best results.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality cubed or round steak will result in better flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

• Browning is Key: Take time to brown the meat well before baking. This step adds depth and richness to your gravy.

• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing sufficient time for braising ensures that the meat becomes fork-tender and absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary for balance.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance both texture and flavor in your dish, making it more vibrant.

• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest after cooking; this helps redistribute juices throughout the meat for improved flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Swiss steak can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and flavorful, they’re ideal for sopping up gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they add a delightful crunch.
3. Sautéed Green Beans – Lightly sautéed with garlic, they provide freshness that complements the richness of the steak.
4. Buttered Noodles – Simple yet satisfying; they soak up any leftover sauce beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds brightness and sweetness, creating a well-rounded plate.
6. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that offers great texture without overpowering other flavors.
7. Coleslaw – A crunchy side that adds a refreshing contrast to warm Swiss steak.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory flavors from the steak dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Swiss steak dish.

• Using too much flour: Over-coating the steak can lead to a gummy texture. Use just enough flour to lightly coat each piece for a better crust.
• Not browning the steak properly: Skipping the browning step can result in a lack of flavor. Make sure to brown each side until golden to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Ignoring the simmering time: Cooking for too short a time may leave the meat tough. Allow at least 1½ hours for proper braising, ensuring fork-tender results.
• Rushing the gravy thickening process: Adding cornstarch too quickly can cause lumps. Mix it well with water before adding it to the gravy and stir constantly until it thickens.
• Forgetting about seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process for a more balanced dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Swiss steak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The Swiss steak can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place covered steak in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth. Heat gradually while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of meat is best for Swiss steak?

Cubed steak or round steak are ideal choices due to their tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs; however, adjust cooking time accordingly as chicken cooks faster than beef.

How do I enhance the flavor of The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe?

Adding additional herbs such as rosemary or bay leaves can elevate flavor profiles. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe by browning the meat first and then transferring everything into the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any dinner table. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your family’s tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy cozy family dinners!