Swiss Steak(Crock-Pot Recipe)
A hearty slow-cooked Swiss steak with tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare in a crock-pot.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the meat into four pieces and trim any excess fat.
- Brown the meat in hot oil in a skillet.
- In a 3½ to 4-quart crock-pot, place chopped onion, celery, and carrot.
- Sprinkle the vegetables with thyme, quick cooking tapioca, salt, and pepper.
- Pour undrained tomatoes over the vegetables.
- Add the browned meat on top.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10 to 12 hours.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the meat in your favorite spices or a bit of red wine overnight before cooking. You can substitute the meat with a leaner cut or even use mushrooms for a vegetarian version. If you don't have quick cooking tapioca, cornstarch can work as a thickening agent instead. Don't skip browning the meat; it adds depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss steak pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of Sweet Potato 'Mash' for a comforting combination. It can also be enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Steak(Crock-Pot Recipe) contains roughly 4 calories, with 1g carbohydrates. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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 frozen meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen meat, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can cook it directly from frozen, but you may need to extend the cooking time by a couple of hours to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.
What can I substitute for tomatoes?
If you're not a fan of tomatoes, you can replace them with a combination of beef broth and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, using a can of tomato soup can add creaminess while still providing that rich flavor.
Can I make this dish in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! To make Swiss steak in the oven, brown the meat in a skillet, then combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven. Cover and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender. This method will yield delicious results as well.
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).