Name: Easy Swiss Steak Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1½ lbs round steak; ½ cup flour; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 onions; 2 carrots; 28 oz tomatoes; 10 oz beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch

Indulge in a comforting and hearty dish with this easy Swiss steak recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish combines tender round steak with a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. Serve it over mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Photos of Easy Swiss Steak Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most kitchens, you might need to grab round steak and Worcestershire sauce if they aren't staples in your pantry. The round steak is a tougher cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking, making it incredibly tender. Worcestershire sauce adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish, so it's worth picking up if you don't already have it.

Ingredients For Easy Swiss Steak Recipe

Round steak: A tougher cut of beef that becomes tender when cooked slowly.

Flour: Used for dredging the steak to create a light crust.

Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and color to the dish.

Garlic powder: Provides a hint of garlic flavor.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and seasoning to the steak.

Olive oil: Used for browning the steak and vegetables.

Onions: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked down.

Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a bit of texture to the dish.

Tomatoes: Forms the base of the rich sauce, providing acidity and moisture.

Beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor and creates a rich sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory and slightly tangy depth to the sauce.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce if needed.

One reader, Hurley Jones says:

This easy Swiss steak recipe is a game-changer! The meat turns out incredibly tender, and the flavors meld beautifully. Perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Highly recommend!

Hurley Jones

Techniques Required for Making Swiss Steak

How to pound meat: Use a meat mallet to pound the round steak to a ½-inch thickness. This helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking. How to dredge meat: Combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Coat the meat in this flour mixture to create a light crust that will brown nicely when cooked. How to brown meat: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the steaks on each side, which helps to develop flavor and color. How to layer ingredients: Place the onion and carrot in the bottom of the pot, then top with the browned steaks. This layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. How to cook in a Dutch oven: Cover the pot and cook in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 2½ to 3 hours. This slow cooking method tenderizes the meat and melds the flavors together.

How To Make Easy Swiss Steak

Enjoy a hearty swiss steak meal for dinner tonight! It’s seasoned to perfection and baked with tender vegetables for a more well-rounded meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbsround steak
½cupflour
½tsppaprika
½tspgarlic powder
½tsppepper
2tbspolive oil,or as needed
2onions,chopped
2carrots,chopped
28oztomatoes,1 can, with juice, diced
10ozbeef broth,1 can
1tbspWorcestershire sauce
1tbspcornstarch

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Using a meat mallet, pound the meat to ½-inch thickness.
Combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, pepper and salt to taste. Dredge the meat in the flour mixture.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven.
Brown the steaks on each side, adding additional olive oil, if needed. Set aside.
Place the onion and carrot in the bottom of the pot, then top with the browned steaks.
Add the tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cover and cook for 2½ to 3 hours.
Serve over mashed potatoes, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If you’d prefer a thicker tomato gravy, combine the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Bring the liquid in the pot to a boil, then stir in the cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.

Nutrition

Calories: 498.69kcal
Fat: 21.48g
Saturated Fat: 6.57g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.07g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.55g
Carbohydrates: 32.57g
Fiber: 4.96g
Sugar: 10.21g
Protein: 43.19g
Cholesterol: 117.37mg
Sodium: 313.53mg
Calcium: 88.44mg
Potassium: 1437.16mg
Iron: 4.87mg
Vitamin A: 345.41µg
Vitamin C: 34.17mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Making Swiss Steak

To ensure the round steak is tender and flavorful, make sure to thoroughly pound the meat to a uniform ½-inch thickness. This not only helps in even cooking but also allows the flour mixture to adhere better, creating a delicious crust when browned.

Time-Saving Tips for Easy Swiss Steak Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop onions and carrots the night before to save time on cooking day.

Use pre-cut meat: Buy pre-tenderized round steak to skip the pounding step.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to reduce cooking time from hours to minutes.

Pre-mix flour blend: Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper in advance.

Canned tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes to save chopping time.

Quick thickening: Mix cornstarch with a bit of water before adding to the pot for faster thickening.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Swiss Steak Recipe

round steak - Substitute with chuck steak: Chuck steak is similarly tough and benefits from slow cooking, making it a good alternative for swiss steak.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used to coat the steak and thicken the sauce, providing a gluten-free option.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar flavor with an extra smoky depth.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more robust garlic flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used if you prefer a less pungent taste.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for browning the steak.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and a slightly sweeter taste, making them a good alternative.
tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can provide a similar consistency and flavor for the sauce.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used if beef broth is unavailable, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor, though it will be saltier.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a good thickening agent and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.

Presentation Tips for Swiss Steak

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the round steak into elegant, bite-sized medallions to ensure a refined presentation. This allows for a more delicate and sophisticated dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a touch of color and freshness. A sprinkle of microgreens can also elevate the visual appeal.
Layer the ingredients: Create a visually appealing stack by layering the mashed potatoes at the base, followed by the carrots and onions, and finally topping with the steak medallions. This adds height and dimension to the plate.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the tomato and beef broth sauce artfully around the plate rather than pouring it over the steak. This technique highlights the sauce while keeping the steak as the focal point.
Use high-quality plates: Opt for a sleek, white porcelain plate to make the colors of the dish pop. The simplicity of the plate will allow the vibrant hues of the tomatoes and carrots to stand out.
Add texture: Incorporate a crispy element, such as a parmesan crisp, to contrast with the tender steak and creamy mashed potatoes. This adds an extra layer of sophistication and texture.
Highlight the vegetables: Cut the carrots into thin, elegant julienne strips and arrange them in a fan shape around the steak. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also showcases the care taken in preparation.
Finish with a glaze: Brush the steak medallions with a light balsamic glaze just before serving. This adds a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
Use edible flowers: Place a few delicate edible flowers on the plate to add a touch of elegance and color. This small detail can make a significant impact on the overall presentation.
Serve with precision: Use tweezers for precise placement of garnishes and components. This attention to detail ensures that each element is perfectly positioned, creating a visually stunning dish.

Essential Tools for Making Swiss Steak

Meat mallet: Used to pound the round steak to a ½-inch thickness, ensuring it becomes tender.
Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt for dredging the meat.
Dutch oven: Essential for browning the steaks and cooking the dish in the oven.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the steaks while browning them in the dutch oven.
Measuring cups: Required to measure out the flour, olive oil, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out the paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the onions and carrots in the dutch oven.
Cutting board: Used for chopping the onions and carrots.
Chef's knife: Essential for slicing the onions and carrots.
Can opener: Needed to open the cans of tomatoes and beef broth.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the cornstarch with a bit of water to thicken the sauce if needed.
Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot dutch oven when placing it in and taking it out of the oven.
Serving spoon: Used for serving the finished Swiss steak over mashed potatoes.

Storing and Freezing Swiss Steak

Allow the swiss steak to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled swiss steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the swiss steak:
1. Transfer the cooled swiss steak to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
2. If using a container, ensure there is minimal air space to prevent freezer burn.
3. If using a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen swiss steak can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen swiss steak:
1. Thaw the frozen swiss steak in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Transfer the thawed swiss steak to a pot or Dutch oven.
3. Heat the swiss steak over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
4. If the sauce appears too thick, add a small amount of beef broth or water to thin it out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen swiss steak in the microwave:
1. Transfer the thawed swiss steak to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
3. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, then stir the swiss steak.
4. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the swiss steak is heated through.

How To Reheat Swiss Steak Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover swiss steak in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the dish in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the steak is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the steak.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover swiss steak in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat the dish on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the steak is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the steak, as it can become tough and rubbery.
For a stovetop reheating method, place the leftover swiss steak in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of beef broth or water to the pan to help keep the steak moist. Cover the pan and heat the steak for 5-7 minutes, or until it is heated through. Stir the steak occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover swiss steak, try slicing it thinly and using it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. You can also dice the steak and add it to a hearty vegetable soup or stew.
Another delicious way to repurpose leftover swiss steak is to shred it and use it as a topping for nachos or tacos. Simply heat the shredded steak in a skillet with some salsa or enchilada sauce, and then spoon it over tortilla chips or taco shells.

Is This Swiss Steak Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This easy swiss steak recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like round steak, onions, carrots, and tomatoes are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of beef broth and worcestershire sauce adds depth without breaking the bank. Overall, I'd rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD.

Is Swiss Steak Healthy or Unhealthy?

This easy Swiss steak recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like onions, carrots, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. The use of round steak as the main protein source is also a leaner choice compared to fattier cuts of beef. However, the recipe's unhealthy aspects include the use of flour for dredging, which adds refined carbohydrates, and the potential for high sodium content from the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the all-purpose flour with a whole-grain alternative, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Use low-sodium beef broth to control the dish's salt content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding bell peppers or mushrooms, to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content
Opt for grass-fed or organic beef, which tends to have a healthier fat profile and fewer antibiotics or hormones
Serve the Swiss steak with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables instead of mashed potatoes to reduce the overall carbohydrate content of the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Swiss Steak Recipe

This easy Swiss steak recipe is a comforting classic that delivers robust flavors with minimal effort. The combination of tenderized round steak, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato-beef broth creates a hearty dish perfect for a cozy dinner. The use of a Dutch oven ensures even cooking and deep flavor infusion. Serving it over mashed potatoes adds a creamy contrast to the savory sauce. A touch of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami, making each bite satisfying. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful dish that's simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.

Enhance Your Easy Swiss Steak Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor that complements the hearty swiss steak beautifully.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower: Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for a creamy, garlic-infused mashed cauliflower. The addition of parmesan cheese gives it a rich, savory taste that pairs wonderfully with the tender steak.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and a hint of thyme bring a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of the swiss steak. These vibrant vegetables add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to your plate.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Serve a warm, creamy spinach and artichoke dip alongside your swiss steak. This indulgent side dish, with its rich blend of cheeses and vegetables, offers a luxurious texture and flavor that elevates the entire meal.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A refreshing salad featuring cranberries, walnuts, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a crisp, tangy counterpoint to the savory swiss steak. The combination of textures and flavors makes this a standout side.

Similar Recipes to Easy Swiss Steak

Braised Beef With Root Vegetables: Dive into the hearty flavors of braised beef with a medley of root vegetables. This dish features tender beef slow-cooked to perfection with carrots, potatoes, and parsnips. The rich, savory broth is enhanced with herbs and a splash of red wine, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of beef stroganoff. This classic dish combines tender strips of beef with a luscious mushroom and sour cream sauce. Serve it over a bed of egg noodles or rice for a satisfying meal that's sure to please.

Hungarian Goulash: Experience the robust flavors of Hungarian goulash, a traditional stew made with chunks of beef simmered in a rich, paprika-infused tomato sauce. This dish is packed with onions, bell peppers, and potatoes, creating a hearty and flavorful meal that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Beef And Vegetable Stew: Warm up with a comforting bowl of beef and vegetable stew. This hearty dish features tender pieces of beef slow-cooked with a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. The savory broth is seasoned with herbs and spices, making it a perfect meal for chilly days.

Salisbury Steak: Savor the classic flavors of Salisbury steak. This dish features seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom and onion gravy. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Swiss Steak

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs. A touch of parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms. These bite-sized treats are baked until golden and bubbly, making them an irresistible appetizer for any occasion.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, creating a refreshing and aromatic bite. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for showcasing the season's freshest ingredients.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of this decadent dessert. The chocolate lava cake offers a perfect balance of a slightly crisp exterior and a gooey, chocolatey interior. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch, drizzle with raspberry sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar. This dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic dessert. The tiramisu layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream. A dusting of cocoa powder on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly complements the sweetness. Serve chilled, and for an extra flair, garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprig of mint. This elegant dessert is perfect for any special occasion or a delightful end to a meal.

Why trust this Easy Swiss Steak Recipe:

This easy Swiss steak recipe is a tried-and-true classic that delivers tender, flavorful results every time. The combination of round steak, onions, and carrots simmered in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can achieve delicious success. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation, ensuring a satisfying meal for your family.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Easy Swiss Steak Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know when the steak is done?

The steak is done when it's fork-tender. After cooking for 2½ to 3 hours, it should be easy to cut with a fork. If it's still tough, let it cook a bit longer.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck steak or even brisket. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat becomes tender.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the meat, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

It's up to you. Peeling the carrots gives a smoother texture, but if you prefer a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on. Just make sure to wash them well.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 4-5 large tomatoes, chopped. You might want to add a bit more beef broth if the mixture seems too thick.