The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

This Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any family gathering. With tender cubed steak braised in a rich tomato gravy, this recipe not only satisfies but also showcases a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions, this hearty meal is sure to impress your loved ones with its savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The rich combination of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates an irresistible sauce that envelops the steak in deliciousness.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to create a complete meal that suits any palate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having the proper equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Perfect for even heat distribution, essential for browning the steak and simmering the gravy.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.

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!

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

• 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)

For the Vegetables

• 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)
• 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. Combine flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic in a large resealable plastic bag.

Step 2: Coat the Steak

Add the steak to the flour mixture pieces a few at a time. Shake gently to coat evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Steak

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Brown steaks on both sides until a nice crust forms.
* Transfer them to a plate once browned.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

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

Step 6: Bake

Cover and bake in the preheated oven for 1½ to 2 hours until meat is fork-tender.
Carefully remove the pot from the oven and transfer steaks to a plate while leaving gravy in pot.

Step 7: Thicken Gravy

Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
Stir this slurry into the gravy.
Place pot back onto stovetop:
* Bring gravy to a gentle boil over medium heat.
* Stir constantly until it thickens.

Step 8: Serve

Serve steaks generously topped with gravy alongside mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or cooked white rice. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Serving Swiss Steak is a delightful experience that can be tailored to fit any occasion. This comforting dish pairs well with various sides, enhancing its savory flavors and creating a satisfying meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect companion for Swiss Steak, as they soak up the rich gravy beautifully.

Over Buttered Egg Noodles

• Serve the steak on a bed of buttered egg noodles for a hearty twist that complements the dish’s texture and flavor.

Accompanied by Cooked White Rice

• Cooked white rice is a simple yet effective side that allows the savory sauce to shine, making every bite enjoyable.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, add freshness and color to your plate, balancing out the richness of the steak.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your Swiss Steak with fresh parsley or thyme for an aromatic touch that enhances both presentation and flavor.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Use leftover Swiss Steak in sandwiches for lunch. The tender meat and gravy create an incredible filling when paired with crusty bread.

How to Perfect The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh cubed steak or round steak from your butcher for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Brown the Meat Well: Ensure you brown the steaks thoroughly before braising; this adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow your steak to braise slowly in the oven. Patience leads to fork-tender meat that melts in your mouth.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your preferences; adding herbs like rosemary or bay leaves can enhance the dish.
• Thicken Gravy Properly: Make sure to stir your cornstarch slurry into the gravy gradually, ensuring it thickens evenly without lumps.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the steak rest briefly before serving. This helps retain moisture and improves overall flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with Swiss Steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy loaf slathered in garlic butter is perfect for sopping up gravy.
2. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender meat.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a crispy texture that complements the softness of Swiss Steak.
4. Creamed Spinach: This classic side brings richness and creaminess, elevating your meal’s comfort factor.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of sweetness and color to your plate, balancing out savory flavors.
6. Baked Beans: A side of baked beans offers a sweet-and-savory element that pairs well with beef dishes.
7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides a cool, crunchy contrast to the hearty steak.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette brings freshness and acidity that brightens up each bite of steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious outcome.

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the steak can lead to less flavor. Ensure you sear the meat until it’s well-browned on both sides before continuing.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking times are essential for tender meat. Use a timer and check for tenderness after 1½ hours, adjusting as necessary.
• Ignoring the Gravy Consistency: A runny gravy can ruin your dish. Make sure to add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the gravy thickens properly.
• Skipping the Marinade Step: Marinating or seasoning before cooking enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; it makes all the difference!
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality ingredients affect taste. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for a richer flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through (about 4-6 minutes).
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute with turkey or lamb if preferred. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat choice.

What should I serve with Swiss steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles for a complete meal.

How do I make my gravy thicker?

To thicken gravy, use a cornstarch slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and water. Stir it into the gravy while heating until thickened.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is perfect for family dinners, offering comfort and rich flavors. It’s versatile too—you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today for a delightful meal that everyone will love!