If you’re craving a dish that feels like home, Old-Fashioned Swiss Steak is the answer. This recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing tender, fall-apart beef together with a savory tomato-based gravy. Slow-braised in the oven, it’s hearty, flavorful, and pure comfort food. Perfect for Sunday dinners or whenever you need a cozy meal, this Swiss steak is sure to remind you of family gatherings around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Tender & Juicy – The slow braise makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
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Comfort Food Classic – Rich, savory flavors with a nostalgic feel.
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Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples like tomatoes, onion, and broth.
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Family Favorite – A hearty dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
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1 ½ pounds round steak
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup beef broth or water
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prep Steak
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Trim any excess fat from the round steak and cut it into serving-size pieces. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Steak
Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each steak piece, shaking off the excess. Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Braise the Steak
Return the steak to the skillet, placing it on top of the onions. Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juice) over the meat. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, oregano, and thyme. Mix gently to combine.
5. Cook Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid or tightly with foil, then transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Carefully remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Tips for the Best Swiss Steak
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For deeper flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
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A cast-iron Dutch oven works perfectly for this recipe.
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Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
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Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Swiss Steakis a timeless dish that brings the best of comfort food straight to your table. With tender beef, a rich tomato gravy, and simple ingredients, it’s proof that old-fashioned recipes never go out of style. Serve it up for family dinners, holidays, or whenever you want to enjoy a taste of tradition.