Handwritten recipe card for Swiss Steak
by: salvagedrecipes

Swiss Steak with Tomatoes and Onions

Swiss Steak
Swiss Steak is a timeless comfort dish rooted in classic American home cooking, inspired by European braising traditions rather than Swiss origins. Typically made from economical cuts of beef like round steak, the meat is tenderized, dredged in flour, browned, and then slow-simmered in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables. The long cooking time transforms the tough cut into a fork-tender meal infused with deep, savory flavor. Often served over mashed potatoes or rice, this hearty dish evokes nostalgic warmth and remains a favorite for family dinners and cozy weekends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine european – other
Servings 6
Calories 365 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs round steak (about 2 inches thick)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 tbsp shortening (or oil)
  • 6 onions (medium, sliced)
  • ½ green pepper (diced)
  • 1 stalk celery (or 1 tsp celery seed)
  • 14 ½ oz diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup water (add more if needed)
  • salt (to taste)
  • black pepper (to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

  • Wipe the round steak with a damp cloth. Pound with a meat mallet and dredge thoroughly in flour.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

  • In a large skillet, heat shortening or oil over medium heat. Add the steak and cook until both sides are browned. Remove the steak and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

  • Add sliced onion, green pepper, and celery (or celery seed) to the same pan. Cook until slightly browned and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

  • Return steak to the pan. Add tomatoes and a small amount of water. Season with salt and pepper. Cover tightly.

Step 5: Slow Cook

  • Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the steak is tender. Add a bit more water if the mixture becomes too dry.

Step 6: Serve

  • Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Tips

  • Substitute diced tomatoes with tomato sauce for a thicker gravy.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
  • Use a slow cooker for all-day tenderness (cook on low for 6–8 hours).
  • Add sliced mushrooms for extra richness.
  • Serve leftovers shredded in sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword Beef, classic recipes, comfort food, family dinner, hearty, slow-cooked, tomato sauce, vintage recipes
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