Introduction
Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a comforting, hearty dish that has been passed down through generations. Tender beef steaks are slowly simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable sauce until melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This classic meal is the perfect example of simple ingredients coming together to create a flavorful, stick-to-your-ribs dinner the whole family will love. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a wholesome, old-fashioned comfort food experience.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef round steak (about 1-inch thick)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
- Cut the round steak into serving-size portions.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the steak pieces in the flour mixture, coating both sides.
2. Brown the Meat
- Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak pieces and brown well on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Sauté for 5 minutes, or until vegetables begin to soften.
4. Make the Sauce
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
- Return the browned steaks to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
5. Simmer Slowly
- Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until steak is fork-tender and sauce is rich and thick.
6. Serve
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, spooning the sauce and vegetables over the top.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months (thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating).