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Swiss Steak
Swiss Steak is a classic American comfort dish that became popular in the early to mid-20th century, especially in home kitchens where economical cuts of beef were transformed into tender, satisfying meals. The term “Swiss” refers not to the country but to the method of pounding and braising the meat until soft. This version relies on thick round steak, dredged in seasoned flour, browned, and then slowly simmered in tomatoes and onions until fork-tender. The long, gentle cooking creates a rich, savory gravy that soaks perfectly into rice or mashed potatoes, making this dish a staple of Sunday dinners and family tables for decades.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lb round steak (pounded thick)
  • ½ cup seasoned all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp cooking fat (or oil)
  • 15 oz tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1 onion (medium, diced)
  • salt (to taste)
  • black pepper (to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

  • Pound the round steak until evenly thick.
  • Cut into serving-size pieces.
  • Dredge each piece lightly in seasoned flour.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  • Heat fat in a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat.
  • When the fat sizzles, add the steak pieces.
  • Brown for 10 minutes on one side.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Onion

  • Turn the steak pieces over.
  • Add the can of tomatoes and the diced onion to the pan.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

  • Reduce heat to low.
  • Cover the pan and cook for 90 minutes.
  • Lift the lid occasionally to stir and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Serve hot over rice for a rich, comforting meal.

Tips

  • Use a cast iron skillet for best browning.
  • Add garlic for extra depth of flavor.
  • Substitute crushed tomatoes for a thicker sauce.
  • Add mushrooms during the last 30 minutes.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes instead of rice.
  • Use beef broth for extra gravy.
  • Slow cook in the oven at 300°F if preferred.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 38gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 820mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 55mgIron: 4.8mg
Keyword beef dinner, braised steak, comfort food, one pot meal, retro cooking, vintage recipe
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