Simple Swiss Steak Recipe: Quick and Easy Dinner

Do you crave a home-cooked meal that's both simple to make and packed with flavor? Swiss Steak is your answer, offering a perfect blend of tender meat, rich gravy, and comforting vegetables. This dish, despite its name, isn't Swiss at all but an American classic where steak is braised, smothered in a tomato-based sauce, and cooked to perfection. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want to enjoy a cozy dinner, this Simple Swiss Steak Recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1.5 to 2 pounds of round steak, tenderized
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) of tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2-3 medium potatoes, diced

Step-by-Step Guide

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Cut the steak into portions that will fit comfortably in your Dutch oven or a large baking dish with a lid. If your steak isn’t already tenderized, use a meat mallet to pound the steak gently.

Coating the Steak

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge each piece of steak in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.

Browning the Steak

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the steak pieces, browning them on each side. This will give your Swiss Steak a nice crust and flavor base. Remove the steak to a plate.

Building the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and garlic until they become translucent and aromatic.
2. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and carrots.

Cooking Process

1. Return the browned steak to the pot or baking dish, nestling it into the sauce. The liquid should almost cover the steak.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer on the stove.
3. If using a Dutch oven, cover it with a lid and transfer it to the oven. If using a baking dish, ensure it’s oven-safe, cover it, and place it in the oven.
4. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the liquid isn’t too low.

⚠️ Note: If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Swiss Steak is tender and the gravy has thickened, it’s time to serve:

• Place the steak on plates, spooning plenty of gravy over the top.
• Consider pairing your Swiss Steak with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Benefits of Cooking Swiss Steak

• Flavor Fusion: The slow cooking process infuses the steak with the essence of the tomatoes, onions, and spices.
• Tenderization: Tough cuts of meat become incredibly tender, making this dish perfect for budget-conscious cooks.
• Versatility: You can easily modify ingredients to suit dietary preferences or add different vegetables.

In summary, this Simple Swiss Steak Recipe showcases how a humble cut of beef can be transformed into a flavorful masterpiece. By following these straightforward steps, you’ll create a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a special occasion or a weekday dinner, the rich flavors and tender texture make Swiss Steak a beloved choice.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Swiss Steak?

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Yes, you can use chuck steak or other stewing beef cuts. The key is to choose a cut that benefits from long, slow cooking.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

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Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a mix designed for coating.

Can Swiss Steak be cooked in a slow cooker?

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Absolutely, after browning the meat, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.