If you are craving a true taste of classic American comfort food, this Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, slow-simmered beef coated in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions and bell peppers creates an irresistibly hearty meal that feels like a warm hug. The perfect blend of simple ingredients transforms this dish into a dinner that’s deliciously nostalgic and wonderfully satisfying every single time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe comes from straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each component is essential, adding layers of depth, texture, and vibrant color to the final dish you’ll fall in love with.
- 2 pounds beef round steak: Choose pieces about 1/2 inch thick for tender, juicy results after slow cooking.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used for dredging to create a light crust that locks in flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the beef and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle heat that complements the savory ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: For browning the meat evenly without sticking.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and moisture, melting into the sauce beautifully.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Offers a fresh, slightly tangy counterpoint; swap with red or yellow for a sweeter twist.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a subtle aromatic kick that deepens flavor complexity.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice: The heart of the sauce, creating rich tomato flavor and luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that takes the dish to the next level.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides warmth and a hint of smokiness without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the meat moist during the long simmer and enriches the sauce with meaty goodness.
How to Make Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Dredge the Steak
Start by mixing the flour, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl. This simple step is crucial because it forms the tasty crust that seals in the juices during cooking. Press the beef pieces firmly into this seasoned flour mixture to coat both sides evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the steak pieces thoroughly—about 3 minutes per side. This step adds a deep, rich color and flavor to the meat which is essential for the overall dish. Once browned, transfer the steak to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, without cleaning it, toss in the sliced onions, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and start releasing their juices. These veggies absorb the browned bits left in the pan, building layers of savory flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned steak back to the pan with the softened vegetables. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and beef broth. Stir gently just to combine everything, then bring it all to a simmer. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it cook undisturbed for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme on top brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Swiss steak shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy steamed rice, both perfect for soaking up the luscious tomato gravy. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad bring balance and vibrancy to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the steak slices over buttered egg noodles or polenta for a comforting twist. You can also transform it into a hearty sandwich by piling the tender beef and its sauce on toasted buns, creating a lunch option that’s as satisfying as dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining steak and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the beef. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef round steak is traditional, tougher cuts like chuck or sirloin tip work well too because the long cooking time tenderizes the meat beautifully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the steak. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the meat and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender results without needing to watch the stove.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a splash of soy sauce mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar works well as a replacement to add that umami boost.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If your sauce is too runny, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, stir in a small cornstarch slurry for an instant thickening fix.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe—it’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite of its tender beef and rich, comforting sauce. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or sharing it with friends, this recipe is always a winner that feels like a warm embrace from the past. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your home.
Print
Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Old Fashioned Swiss Steak is a comforting American classic featuring tender beef round steak simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and garlic. This hearty main course is perfect served over mashed potatoes or rice, offering a delicious and satisfying meal reminiscent of traditional home-cooked dinners.
Ingredients
Beef and Coating
- 2 pounds beef round steak, 1/2 inch thick, trimmed and cut into serving-size pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
- Dredge the steak: Press each piece of beef round steak into the flour mixture until well coated on all sides, shaking off excess flour.
- Brown the steak: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the coated steak pieces and brown them for about 3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove the steak and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and develop aroma.
- Combine and simmer: Return the browned steak pieces to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Slow cook the steak: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook gently for 1½ to 2 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the sauce does not dry out. The meat should become fork-tender by the end of the cooking time.
- Serve: Once tender, serve the Swiss steak hot over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow bell peppers for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- For a thicker gravy, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to reduce.
- This recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the steak.
