Classic Swiss Steak
A hearty Swiss steak dish featuring tender browned beef in a savory tomato sauce with onions and peppers, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the round steak into serving portions.
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a medium-sized bowl.
- Roll the steak pieces in the flour mixture, coating both sides.
- Melt shortening or butter in a hot skillet.
- Brown the meat on both sides but do not fully cook it.
- Place the browned meat in a crock-pot.
- Add tomato sauce, sliced onion, and sliced green pepper to the crock-pot.
- Cook on low for 6 to 12 hours or on high for up to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tender Swiss steak, opt for a well-marbled round steak. If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato puree works well as a substitute. To enhance flavor, you can add garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the crock-pot. For a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve classic Swiss steak over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, try it with buttery egg noodles, or explore similar flavors in dishes like Stroganoff Burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Swiss Steak contains roughly 128 calories, with 6g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1762mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat for Swiss steak?
Yes, while round steak is traditional, you can substitute with flank or chuck steak for a similar result. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as different cuts may require longer cooking to become tender.
How can I make Swiss steak spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crock-pot. For an even bolder flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or serve with a side of spicy mustard.
What can I serve with Swiss steak?
Swiss steak pairs well with comfort food sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Explore more comforting flavors with American recipes to find the perfect pairing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).