Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Old-fashioned Swiss steak is a classic comfort food that harks back to simpler times. This dish combines tender beef with a rich, savory sauce made from tomatoes and veggies, making it a staple in many households. I vividly remember my grandmother whipping up this meal on chilly Sunday evenings, welcoming us with its heartwarming aroma. It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that evokes feelings of warmth and family, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak apart from other beef dishes is its simplicity and flavor. It’s comforting yet sophisticated enough for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The slow-braising technique allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that the steak turns tender while soaking up the delicious sauce. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option, making it an excellent choice for families.

"This Swiss steak is the definition of comfort food! It melts in your mouth and is bursting with flavor. Always a hit with my family!" – A satisfied home cook.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. The method includes browning the meat, sautéing your veggies, and then letting everything simmer together beautifully in the oven. Here’s how it breaks down:

1. Season and dredge the steak.
2. Sear it in a skillet until browned.
3. Sauté the vegetables until softened.
4. Combine everything for a long, leisurely bake.

This means that while the steak cooks, you can relax or prepare your sides, making it a stress-free choice for any busy evening.

What You’ll Need

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 to 2 pounds round steak, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the round steak generously with salt and pepper. Dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the steak on both sides, then remove it and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
5. Return the browned steak to the skillet. Then add in the canned tomatoes (or sauce), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and transfer it to the oven.
7. Bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the steak is tender.

Best Way to Serve

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak shines brightly when served with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice—both of which are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Consider adding a side of buttery green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance out the meal. For a fun twist, serve it over egg noodles for a satisfying variation.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers, let the Swiss steak cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When reheating, heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain its tenderness. Always ensure to reheat thoroughly to a safe temperature.

Pro Chef Tips

For the most delightful results, sear the steak until it has a deep brown crust; this enhances the flavor significantly. Don’t rush the sautéing process either; allowing the onions and peppers to caramelize adds an extra layer of richness to the dish. If you find the sauce too thick, simply add a little more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this timeless recipe! For a bit of a kick, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, substituting lean cuts of beef such as flank steak will work perfectly. For a unique twist, try adding mushrooms or carrots to the mix for added flavor and nutrients.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, with a cooking time of 2 to 2.5 hours in the oven.

Can I use another cut of meat?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use chuck roast or flank steak; they’ll still yield tender results if cooked low and slow.

How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Is it possible to double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have a sufficiently large ovenproof dish to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through.

This Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak recipe is bound to become a treasured favorite, giving you a hearty meal filled with flavor and nostalgia, perfect for any occasion!

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

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• Total Time: 180 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free optional

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Description

A classic comfort food featuring tender beef in a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 to 2 pounds round steak, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the round steak generously with salt and pepper. Dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the steak on both sides, then remove it and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
5. Return the browned steak to the skillet. Add in the canned tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and transfer the skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the steak is tender.

Notes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the sauce. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats well.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 150 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Swiss Steak, Comfort Food, Hearty Dinner, Family Meal