Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

Ingredients

• 2 pounds round steak (about 1 inch thick)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional but traditional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but recommended)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Tenderize the Meat

Place the round steak on a cutting board and use a meat mallet to pound it to about ½ inch thick. This tenderizes the meat and allows it to absorb flavors better. Cut into serving-sized pieces.

2. Dredge in Seasoned Flour

Combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish. Dredge each steak piece in the seasoned flour, pressing to coat thoroughly. This creates a crust and thickens the sauce.

3. Brown the Steak

Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the floured steak pieces on both sides (3-4 minutes per side). Work in batches if needed. Set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, sauté sliced onions and bell peppers for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

5. Build the Gravy

Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir, scraping browned bits. Bring to a simmer.

6. Simmer to Perfection

Return steak to the pan, cover, and simmer on low for 1½ to 2 hours until fork-tender. Stir occasionally and add broth if needed.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with parsley. Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice to soak up the savory gravy.

Tips for the Best Swiss Steak

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking.
• Don’t skip tenderizing the meat.
• Add carrots or celery for extra flavor.
• Make it ahead for deeper flavors.

Why We Love It

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a nostalgic comfort food, perfect for family dinners. Its slow-simmered richness brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Enjoy!