
Why Make This Recipe
Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is a hearty and comforting dish that many people love. It combines tender meat with a flavorful sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe brings back memories of home-cooked meals and is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Cut the round steak into serving-size pieces and season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off the excess.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the steak pieces on both sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned steak to the skillet, cover, and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours until the steak is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is best served hot. You can pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can make the meal even more complete.
How to Store Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
To store leftovers, let the Swiss steak cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container. It should be eaten within 3 months for the best taste.
Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
- For extra flavor, let the meat marinate in the seasoning and flour for at least an hour before cooking.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before browning the steak to seal in the juices.
- Adjust the vegetables based on what you have or your taste preferences. Mushrooms or bell peppers can be great additions.
Variation
You can add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a richer flavor. Alternatively, adding different herbs like rosemary or parsley can change the taste profile of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use chuck roast or flank steak instead of round steak for a different flavor and texture.
How long can I keep the leftover Swiss steak in the fridge?
Leftover Swiss steak can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Can I make Swiss steak in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for tender, delicious results.

Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak
Ingredients
Meat Preparation
- 2 pounds round steak Cut into serving-size pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour For dredging the steak
- Salt and pepper To taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For browning the steak
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Cut the round steak into serving-size pieces and season with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off the excess.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the steak pieces on both sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
Cooking
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned steak to the skillet, cover, and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours until the steak is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.