Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

When you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal that evokes the warmth of a home-cooked dinner, look no further than the classic Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak. This nostalgic dish, which has been passed down through generations, features tender, slow-cooked beef, smothered in a rich tomato-based gravy with vegetables and a touch of seasoning. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings out the best in flavorful, affordable cuts of meat.

With its tender meat, rich sauce, and delicious vegetables, Swiss Steak is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, filling, and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special gathering, or simply craving a meal full of tradition, this recipe will deliver a delicious, satisfying experience. Let’s dive into how you can make this old-fashioned favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs round steak (or other affordable cuts like chuck steak)
• 1/4 cup flour (for dredging)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Start by tenderizing your round steak (or chuck steak) with a meat mallet or the edge of a plate. This will break down the tough fibers in the meat and ensure it becomes nice and tender during cooking. Once tenderized, cut the steak into 2-inch pieces (or leave it in large pieces if preferred). Season the steak pieces generously with salt and black pepper.

Next, dredge the steak pieces in flour, making sure each piece is well-coated. This will help the steak develop a slight crust when seared and thicken the gravy as it cooks.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the floured steak pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the steak on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. The goal is to get a rich, caramelized color on the steak, which will deepen the flavor of the final dish.

Once the steak is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. If there’s any excess fat, drain it, leaving a little bit to sauté the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 4: Create the Gravy

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as this will add extra flavor to your gravy.

Add the beef broth, dried thyme, and black pepper, then stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Steak

Return the browned steak pieces to the pan, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking process will allow the beef to become incredibly tender, and the sauce will thicken into a rich, flavorful gravy.

If the gravy starts to reduce too much, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it at the desired consistency.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the steak is tender and the gravy is thick and flavorful, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. For an added richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter just before serving. This will give the sauce a velvety finish.

Serve your Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy.

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

1. Tender and Flavorful Meat

The key to Swiss steak is cooking it low and slow. As the beef simmers in the tomato-based gravy, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s a comforting dish that makes even tougher cuts of meat taste amazing, giving you a budget-friendly option for a hearty dinner.

2. Rich, Savory Gravy

The combination of beef broth, tomato paste, and di