Old Fashioned Swiss Steak is a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This classic Swiss steak recipe features tender cube steak braised slowly in a rich tomato, onion, and pepper gravy. The moment you take your first bite, you will be transported back to simpler times, where hearty meals were the norm. With its robust flavors and tender meat, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
This dish isn’t just about taste; it offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite among home cooks. First, the simplicity of the traditional Swiss steak preparation means anyone can master it. Second, it’s a great way to utilize affordable cuts of meat, making it a budget-friendly option. Additionally, this old-fashioned Swiss beef steak is versatile — you can serve it over rice, potatoes, or noodles, allowing for easy customization. The slow-cooked Swiss steak recipe results in tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, while the rich gravy enhances every bite. Finally, it’s perfect for family gatherings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere while delivering comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
Gather these items:
- 2 lbs cube steak
- 0.5 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1.5 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
How to Make Old Fashioned Swiss Steak Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge cube steaks in flour.
- Step 2: Brown steaks in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3: Sauté onions and peppers until softened. Add garlic briefly.
- Step 4: Add tomato sauce, tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire, and spices.
- Step 5: Nestle steaks under the sauce. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours.
- Step 6: Serve over potatoes, rice, or noodles for the best sides for Swiss steak.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
Keep these in mind:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking.
- Let the dish simmer low and slow for maximum tenderness.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the cube steak overnight.
- Experiment with different vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for easy Swiss steak variations.
Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
When it comes to serving this hearty Swiss steak dinner, you have options. Traditional accompaniments include creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice, which soak up the delicious gravy. Alternatively, serve it over egg noodles for a vintage Swiss steak meal that feels indulgent yet comforting. For a healthier twist, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
To store leftovers, let the Swiss steak cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Swiss Steak
What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Swiss Steak?
The secret lies in the slow-cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become incredibly tender. Using a quality cut of cube steak and ensuring it’s well-browned also contributes to a richer flavor.
Can I make Old Fashioned Swiss Steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Swiss Steak?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t rush the browning step. Browning the meat properly enhances the flavor. Additionally, monitor the simmering time; too little time can result in tough meat.
Variations of Old Fashioned Swiss Steak You Can Try
If you’re looking to shake things up, consider these variations. You can add different vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition. For a spicier kick, incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving. Finally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your dish to your tastes!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Cauliflower Soup or Southern Buttermilk Biscuits. If you want to explore more about Swiss steak, visit Swiss Steak Recipe for additional insights.
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Old Fashioned Swiss Steak: 7 Comforting Dinner Ideas
- Total Time: 135 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Tender cube steak braised slowly in a rich tomato, onion, and pepper gravy. A nostalgic, comforting dinner that tastes like home.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cube steak
- 0.5 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1.5 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp thyme
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge cube steaks in flour.
- Brown steaks in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté onions and peppers until softened. Add garlic briefly.
- Add tomato sauce, tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire, and spices.
- Nestle steaks under the sauce. Cover and simmer 1.5–2 hours.
- Serve over potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 120 min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Old Fashioned Swiss Steak