Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Name: Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 lbs cube steak or round steak sliced; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 1 onion diced; 1–2 stalks celery diced; 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced; 8 oz mushrooms sliced; 2 cloves garlic minced; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp sugar; Pinch of celery seed (optional); 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Author: Lora

Published: May 20, 2025

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Introduction to Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Welcome to the heartwarming world of cooking, where flavors translate into stories! Today, I’m excited to share my version of Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak, a dish that brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners. There’s something incredibly comforting about tender steak simmered in a savory tomato and vegetable sauce. This recipe is your perfect solution for a busy day or a chance to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. It’s hearty, flavorful, and forgiving—perfect for even the most chaotic weeknight. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

This Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a game changer for busy days. It’s a one-pot wonder that not only simplifies cleanup but also maximizes flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even kitchen novices will shine. The combination of tender steak and savory sauce warms the soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies, pleasing the pickiest of eaters around your table. Trust me; this dish will become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in crafting this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak:

All-purpose flour: This is used to coat the steak, creating a delightful crust that seals in the juices.
Salt and black pepper: Perfect for seasoning the steak and enhancing its natural flavors.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the dish, giving it that warm, welcoming aroma.
Cube steak or round steak: These cuts are affordable and ideal for slow cooking, becoming tender as they simmer.
Vegetable oil: Used for browning the steak, it adds a touch of richness.
Onion: Diced onions develop a sweet, caramelized flavor when sautéed, infusing your dish with goodness.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and earthy notes, elevating the overall texture of the dish.
Green bell pepper: Its slight bitterness harmonizes with tomato sauce, brightening the flavor palette.
Mushrooms: These lend a savory umami element, enriching the dish and providing a satisfying bite.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a punch of flavor, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile.
Tomato paste: A concentrated flavor bomb, it thickens the sauce and imparts a rich tomato taste.
Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add body and texture to the sauce, combining with the other ingredients wonderfully.
Beef broth: A key player for building a deep, savory base that simmers beautifully with the steak.
Worcestershire sauce: This iconic sauce introduces tangy notes that brighten the overall profile of the dish.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that adds warmth and earthiness to your sauce.
Sugar: Just a pinch balances out the acidity from the tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor.
Celery seed (optional): Tiny but mighty, it can bring an extra layer of flavor if you choose to use it.
Cornstarch and water (for thickening): If you prefer a richer sauce, mixing these will achieve that velvety gravy consistency.

For exact quantities, scroll down for the recipe at the bottom. You’ll also find it available for printing. Let’s get cooking and make some memories around the dinner table!

How to Make Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

Creating a delicious Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a delightful journey that you’ll want to embark on. It’s straightforward and straightforward, letting you unleash your inner chef while keeping your kitchen relatively tidy. Let’s walk through the preparations step by step!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for a slow and gentle bake, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the steak becomes fork-tender. A preheated oven is key to achieving that ideal texture!

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Now, let’s focus on the star of the show: the steak. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This mix not only seasons the meat but also helps achieve a lovely crust. Coat each piece of steak thoroughly in this mixture. Then, heat vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium heat. Brown the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step locks in the juiciness and provides an irresistible flavor base.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next up, let’s add those vibrant vegetables! In the same pot you used for the steaks (don’t wash it, just embrace the flavor!), sauté the diced onion, celery, green bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Sautéing these vegetables helps release their natural sweetness and creates a foundation of flavor that enhances the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for the magic to happen! Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, allowing them to cook for a minute or two. This step intensifies the flavors to a whole new level. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, adding Worcestershire sauce, thyme, sugar, and optional celery seed. Give it a good stir to combine the ingredients before placing the browned steak back into the pot. Each ingredient sings in unison, promising a symphony of flavors.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Cover your pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, allowing the steak to simmer luxuriously. The long cooking time is essential for achieving that tender texture we all crave in Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak. Just imagine the aroma filling your home—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Step 6: Optional Gravy Thickening

If you prefer a thicker gravy, here’s a handy tip! Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir this into your pot and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This optional step ensures every bite of your steak is enveloped in delicious gravy.

Tips for Success

Marinate your steak overnight for deeper flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
Don’t rush the browning process; letting the meat get a nice sear adds fabulous flavor.
Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to suit your family’s preferences.
Feel free to add any leftover veggies you have on hand for added nutrition.
To save time, chop your veggies the night before.

Equipment Needed

Large oven-safe pot: A Dutch oven works wonderfully, but any heavy pot with a lid will do.
Wooden spoon: Essential for stirring, but a spatula can also serve!
Shallow dish: For coating the steak; a plate works just fine.
Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot pots!

Variations

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
Swap in different proteins, like chicken or turkey, for a lighter twist on this classic dish.
Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for added sweetness and a vibrant presentation.
For a low-carb option, serve the steak over spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides.
Try using fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a fragrant twist on the classic thyme.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce.
Serve it over buttered egg noodles for a comforting, hearty meal.
A side of steamed green beans or garlic sautéed spinach adds a lovely pop of color.
Complete the meal with a glass of robust red wine for a cozy evening.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright touch before serving!

FAQs about Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak

As you prepare to dive into making Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help guide your culinary journey:

Can I use a different cut of beef for Swiss Steak?

Absolutely! While cube steak or round steak are traditional choices, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or flank steak for a richer flavor. Just remember that the longer the cooking time, the more tender your meat will become!

How can I store leftovers of Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!

Is Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak gluten-free?

This recipe contains all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch coating to enjoy this comforting dish!

What sides pair well with Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak?

This hearty meal is great with classic sides like mashed potatoes or egg noodles. For a fresher option, consider steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad to balance the rich flavors.

Can I make Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply brown the steak and sauté the vegetables, then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours. It’ll be just as flavorful and tender with this method!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is not just about creating a meal; it’s about weaving moments and memories around your table. The rich, savory aromas that fill your kitchen invite everyone to gather and indulge. Each bite offers a sense of comfort and warmth, perfect for lifting spirits after a long day. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish shines brightly in the spotlight. I hope you experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from preparing and sharing this classic recipe with your loved ones. Happy cooking!