Microwave Swiss Steak
This microwave Swiss steak offers tender, flavorful beef cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, it combines savory and sweet flavors, and is ideal for those seeking a hearty, fuss-free meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a 2-quart baking dish (12 x 7-inch) and microwave on Roast for 1 minute or until melted.
- Combine flour, salt, pepper, and dry mustard on a plate.
- Coat the meat in the seasoned flour.
- Arrange the coated meat in the melted butter in the baking dish.
- Cover with a glass lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes or until no longer pink inside.
- Turn the meat over and place onion slices on top.
- Combine ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Pour the ketchup mixture over the meat and onions.
- Cover and microwave for 20 minutes on Simmer.
- Rearrange the meat, cover, and continue cooking on Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until fork tender.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ketchup mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-sliced onions. Ensure the meat is thoroughly coated in the seasoned flour for a nice crust. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor. This dish is a great way to utilize leftover round steak from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Swiss steak over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the savory sauce. Pair it with steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting family dinner, consider rounding out the meal with a side of Quick Cabbage Rolls, which complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can gently reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Swiss Steak contains roughly 215 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2090mg per serving (91% 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 beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust the microwave time based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it’s tender and cooked through. Just be mindful that leaner cuts may require less time.
What can I substitute for ketchup?
If you want a different flavor profile, you can substitute ketchup with barbecue sauce or a homemade tomato sauce. For a healthier option, consider using a sugar-free ketchup or a blend of tomato paste with vinegar and spices to mimic the taste.
How do I know when the steak is tender enough?
The steak is fork tender when you can easily pierce it with a fork and it pulls apart without much effort. If it's not tender after the initial cooking time, continue to microwave in 5-minute increments until it reaches the desired texture.
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).