The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

This Smothered Swiss Steak recipe is the best old-fashioned Swiss steak recipe you will ever make! It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or gatherings. The tender cubed steak braised in savory tomato gravy, along with mushrooms, peppers, and onions, creates a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: The steps are straightforward, making it easy enough for anyone to create a delicious meal.
• Rich Flavor: Slow-braising the steak in a rich tomato gravy infuses it with deep and satisfying flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—perfect for any side preference.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is sure to become a staple at your table, pleasing both kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy oven-safe pot or cast-iron Dutch oven
• Large resealable plastic bag
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy oven-safe pot: This ensures even cooking and helps retain heat while braising the steak.
• Large resealable plastic bag: Perfect for coating the steak with flour without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

To make The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Steak Coating

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

For the Main Dish

• 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. This ensures that your dish cooks evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Coating

• Combine flour, salt, pepper, and granulated garlic in a large resealable plastic bag.
• Add the cubed steak pieces to the flour mixture in batches. Shake gently to coat evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Steak

• Heat vegetable oil in your heavy oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
• Brown the coated steaks on both sides until they form a nice crust. Once browned, transfer them to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

• Reduce heat to medium.
• Add onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for about 6–7 minutes until softened.
• If necessary, add more oil during this step. Stir 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.
• Gently stir to combine while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return browned steaks back into the pot.

Step 6: Braise in Oven

Cover and bake in preheated oven for approximately 1½ to 2 hours until meat is fork-tender. Carefully remove from oven when done.

Step 7: Thicken Gravy

Transfer steaks to a plate while leaving gravy in pot.
* Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
* Stir slurry into gravy. Place pot back on stovetop over medium heat and bring to 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 a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Serving your Swiss steak can enhance the meal experience and make dinner feel special. Here are a few suggestions to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Pair with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory gravy perfectly, adding a rich texture that balances the dish.

Serve with Buttered Egg Noodles

• Soft, buttery egg noodles soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed vegetables, like green beans or carrots, add a pop of color and nutrition, rounding out the meal.

Include a Garden Salad

• A light garden salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak.

Try Cornbread on the Side

• Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up extra gravy and adds a delightful sweetness to your plate.

Add Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy pickled vegetables can brighten the flavors of the dish and provide a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the steak.

How to Perfect The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

Perfecting your Swiss steak can lead to even more delicious results. Keep these tips in mind for an outstanding meal.

• Choose quality meat: Selecting high-quality cubed or round steak ensures tenderness and enhances flavor during cooking.
• Brown well: Properly browning the meat creates a deep flavor base. Don’t rush this step; it adds richness to your gravy.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms enhance flavor and texture compared to their canned counterparts.
• Allow it to braise: Cooking slowly allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Be patient for at least 1½ hours in the oven.
• Make a thick gravy: Use cornstarch slurry effectively for a thicker gravy that clings well to the meat and sides.
• Taste before serving: Always taste your gravy before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed for an optimal flavor profile.

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

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

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up extra gravy, garlic bread adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes bring texture and a rustic feel that pairs nicely with Swiss steak.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness that contrasts well with hearty meats.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the rich flavors of the steak without overpowering them.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic adds vibrant color and nutrition while keeping things simple.
6. Creamed Corn: This sweet side dish offers creaminess that balances out savory flavors from the steak beautifully.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness provides an interesting contrast to savory dishes like Swiss steak.
8. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar can cleanse the palate between bites of rich food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Swiss steak is simple, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using Too Much Flour: This can lead to a heavy crust on the steak. Use just enough flour to lightly coat the meat for a perfect sear.
• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Skipping this step can result in less flavor. Always ensure you brown the steak well for that rich taste.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Mushrooms and peppers should be tender but not mushy. Sauté them until they soften but retain their structure.
• Neglecting to Stir the Gravy: Stirring helps prevent sticking and ensures even flavor. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the pot.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: This thickens your gravy beautifully. Don’t forget to create and add it; otherwise, your sauce may be too thin.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Swiss steak?

Swiss steak is a classic dish made from cubed beef that is braised slowly with vegetables and gravy, delivering tender meat and rich flavors.

How do I make The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the meat without affecting texture or flavor.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter option. Adjust cooking times as needed since chicken cooks faster.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish is great served with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles, which soak up the delicious gravy perfectly.

How can I customize The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas for added flavor and nutrition; just sauté them along with the other veggies.

Final Thoughts

The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is a comforting meal perfect for family dinners. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it versatile enough to serve on any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or sides!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of The Best Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe, a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This delightful recipe features tender cubed steak braised slowly in a rich tomato gravy, complemented by sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Each bite delivers deep, satisfying flavors, making it an instant favorite at your table. Versatile for any occasion, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this Swiss steak is sure to elevate your dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds cubed steak
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 pinch celery seed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water + 2 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. In a resealable bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic. Add cubed steak and shake to coat evenly.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat and brown the coated steaks on both sides; transfer to a plate.
4. Sauté onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms in the same pot until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste.
5. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, sugar, and optional celery seed; return browned steaks to the pot.
6. Cover and bake for 1½ to 2 hours until fork-tender.
7. To thicken gravy: Combine cornstarch and water; stir into gravy on stovetop until thickened.
8. Serve steaks with gravy alongside your choice of sides.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg