Smothered Round Steak
Smothered round steak is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender beef cooked in a rich gravy with onions. Its savory flavors make it perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a satisfying meal with a classic Southern flair that pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and trim excess fat from the steak.
- Cut the steak into 3-inch wide by 5-inch long pieces.
- Salt and pepper the steak and dredge in the flour.
- In a frypan, heat the cooking oil.
- Place the steak in the frypan and cook, turning occasionally until done.
- Remove the steak from the frypan and set aside.
- Add remaining flour to the hot cooking oil and stir until brown.
- Add water to the flour mixture to make a smooth gravy.
- Add chopped onions to the gravy.
- Return the steak to the frypan with the gravy and onions.
- Cover and cook over low heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the steak overnight with your favorite spices or a splash of vinegar. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging. Additionally, you can experiment with adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the flour for a unique twist. Make sure to allow the gravy to thicken before returning the steak for optimal results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smothered round steak over creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious gravy. It pairs well with steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner experience, consider offering a side of crusty bread to mop up the remaining gravy. This dish also complements a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover smothered round steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smothered Round Steak contains roughly 495 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 this recipe?
Yes, while round steak is traditional, you can substitute other cuts like chuck steak or flank steak. Just ensure the cut you choose has enough fat for tenderness. Adjust cooking times as necessary, keeping an eye on doneness to avoid overcooking.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
To thicken the gravy, you can whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water while it's simmering. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a bit more flour when creating the roux can also help achieve the desired consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, sear the steak first for added flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the gravy and onions. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a tender, flavorful meal.
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).