The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

This The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is a delightful way to bring comfort food to your table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish provides hearty flavor and nostalgic appeal. The tender cubed steak braised in savory tomato gravy with mushrooms, peppers, and onions will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of tomato gravy, vegetables, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that satisfies.
• Versatile Serving Options: This Swiss Steak pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, making it adaptable to any meal.
• Ideal for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more enjoyable the next day.
• Family-Friendly: This comforting dish appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven
• Large resealable plastic bag
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven: These retain heat well and distribute it evenly for perfect braising.
• Large resealable plastic bag: Ideal for coating your steak evenly with flour without creating a mess.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like cornstarch and water to create a slurry for thickening the gravy.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for gently scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot while stirring.

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!

Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
– 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
– 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 Flour Mixture

Combine flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic in a large resealable plastic bag.
* Add the cubed steak pieces one at a time and 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 the steaks on both sides until they have a nice crust.
* Transfer them to a plate once browned.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Lower heat to medium.
* Add onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the same pot.
* Sauté these vegetables for about 6–7 minutes until they soften.
* If needed, add more oil before stirring in garlic and tomato paste; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 6: Bake

Cover and bake in your preheated oven for about 1½ to 2 hours until the meat becomes fork-tender.
* Once done, carefully remove from the oven and transfer steaks to a plate while leaving gravy behind.

Step 7: Thicken Gravy

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
* Stir this slurry into the gravy left in the pot.
* Place back on stovetop over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

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 The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is all about complementing the rich flavors of the dish. This comforting meal pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its savory taste.

Classic Comfort Foods

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy from the steak.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: Soft egg noodles tossed in butter provide a delightful, mild base for the flavorful steak.
• Cooked White Rice: Fluffy white rice serves as a neutral side that balances the hearty flavors of the Swiss steak.

Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crunchy green beans add a fresh contrast to the rich steak dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A touch of caramelization brings out their natural sweetness, making them an ideal pairing.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients, complementing the meal without overpowering it.

Garnishes and Accompaniments

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a pop of color and freshness on top of your plated steak.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickles can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Perfecting this classic recipe involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking methods. Here are some tips to help you achieve outstanding results.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose good-quality cubed or round steak for tenderness and flavor. Look for marbling for better taste.
• Brown Steaks Thoroughly: Achieving a nice crust on your steaks not only enhances flavor but also adds depth to your sauce.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allowing the steak to braise slowly in the oven ensures it becomes tender and absorbs all flavors from the gravy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your gravy before serving, and feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Thicken Gravy Properly: Ensure your cornstarch slurry is mixed well before adding it to avoid lumps in your gravy.
• Pair Wisely with Sides: Choose sides that balance out the richness of the dish for a well-rounded meal experience.

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

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options that work wonderfully with Swiss steak.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a flavorful base for your steak’s gravy.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey add a pop of color and sweetness, balancing savory notes.
3. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender steak.
4. Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob is a classic choice that complements hearty meals perfectly.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach adds creaminess while also providing nutritional value, enhancing your plate’s appeal.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Slightly sweet baked sweet potatoes bring warmth and comfort alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Flour Coating: Not coating the steak in flour can lead to uneven browning and texture. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly for a nice crust.
• Overcrowding the Pot: If you add too many steaks at once, they will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
• Ignoring Vegetable Sautéing: Skipping the sautéing step for vegetables may result in a less flavorful gravy. Take time to soften them properly before adding liquids.
• Not Scraping the Bottom: Failing to scrape up the browned bits from the pot can rob your dish of rich flavor. Always deglaze after browning meat or vegetables.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can make your gravy bland. Opt for a good quality beef broth for depth of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Place cooled steak and gravy in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20–30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

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 chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since chicken cooks faster.

What sides pair well with Swiss steak?

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is delicious served with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice as they complement the rich gravy beautifully.

How do I thicken the gravy without cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can simmer the gravy longer to reduce it or use a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) as an alternative thickener.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe ahead and reheat when ready to serve. It often tastes even better after sitting overnight!

Final Thoughts

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe offers warmth and comfort with its tender meat and savory gravy. This versatile dish allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try for your next family dinner!

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Indulge in the warmth and nostalgia of The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, a comforting dish that brings hearty flavors to your dinner table. This delightful meal features tender cubed steak slowly braised in a rich tomato gravy, complemented by savory mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also promises to leave everyone asking for more. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying experience.

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds cubed steak or round steak
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1–2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 ounces cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 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 the oven to 325°F.
2. In a large resealable bag, mix flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic. Add cubed steak pieces one at a time to coat.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat and brown the steaks on both sides. Set aside.
4. In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, sugar, and optional celery seed. Return steaks to the pot ensuring they are submerged.
6. Cover and bake for 1½ to 2 hours until fork-tender.
7. To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir into the pot over medium heat until thickened.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (180g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 85mg