Description
Swiss Steak is a tender and flavorful slow-cooked beef dish characterized by seared round steak simmered in a rich sauce of crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and sautéed vegetables like onions, carrots, and green bell peppers. This homestyle American classic is perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 pounds round steak, sliced into 6–8 rectangular pieces
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup flour
Vegetables and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ⅓ cup beef broth (add more as needed)
Instructions
- Dredge the Steak: In a shallow dish, whisk together the onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and flour. Thoroughly coat each piece of steak in the flour mixture to help create a flavorful crust when searing.
- Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the coated pieces of steak in the skillet and brown on both sides to seal in juices and build flavor. If necessary, sear in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the seared steak and place it on a plate. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then add the chopped onions, carrots, green bell peppers, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Boil the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Simmer and Slow Cook: Reduce the heat to low to achieve a gentle simmer. Return the steak pieces to the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the steak is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Finish and Serve: Once tender, serve the Swiss steak hot over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- If the sauce reduces too much during simmering, add extra beef broth or water to keep the steak moist.
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf to the sauce during simmering.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead as the flavors improve after resting overnight.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- Using round steak is budget-friendly but ensure you cook it low and slow to achieve tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Swiss steak, round steak recipe, tomato beef stew, comfort food, slow simmered beef
