Crockpot Swiss Steak Recipe

Looking for a hearty, delicious meal that practically cooks itself? This Crockpot Swiss Steak recipe is a classic comfort food dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. With tender, slow-cooked beef smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce and vegetables, it's perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Read on to discover how to make this delectable dish, with all the essential tips, tricks, and variations to make it just right. Keep reading, and you'll be a Crockpot Swiss Steak pro in no time!

this Recipe

What is Crockpot Swiss Steak?

Crockpot Swiss Steak is a traditional comfort food dish made from inexpensive cuts of beef that are tenderized, seared, and then slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce with vegetables. The name "Swiss" comes from the process of tenderizing the meat, known as "swissing," not from the country. By cooking it slowly in a crockpot, you ensure that the beef becomes incredibly tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Swiss Steak

• 2 lbs. beef round steak (boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Additional Ingredients List for Crockpot Swiss Steak (Optional)

• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ¼ cup red wine (adds a deeper flavor)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity from tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoon water (to thicken the sauce)

Substitutions and Variations

1. Beef Alternatives: Instead of round steak, you can use other cuts like chuck steak, blade steak, or even brisket. Each will offer a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
3. Vegetarian Swiss Steak: Substitute the beef with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a rich, meat-free alternative.
4. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add carrots, peas, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Tenderize the Steak: Place the round steak on a cutting board and, using a meat mallet, pound the meat to about ½-inch thickness. This helps to break down the tough fibers, ensuring tenderness after cooking.
2. Season and Dredge: In a small bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge the steak pieces in this seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
3. Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is important for building flavor.
4. Layer in the Crockpot: Place the seared steak in the bottom of your crockpot. Top with sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
5. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the steak and vegetables.
6. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is tender and the flavors have blended.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How to Cook Crockpot Swiss Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop all vegetables and gather your seasonings before you start. This will make the process smoother and faster.
2. Tenderize and Dredge: Don’t skip tenderizing the steak. It's key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Searing the Steak: Searing is essential to lock in juices and add a depth of flavor. The caramelization that happens during searing will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Always start with the meat at the bottom, so it cooks evenly and stays moist. Vegetables on top help infuse the steak with their flavors.
5. Let it Simmer: Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and infuse with the sauce, creating a meal that feels like it took hours of work, but with minimal effort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Sear: While it’s tempting to skip this step, searing adds a lot of flavor to the meat. Don’t miss it!
2. Overcrowding the Crockpot: Make sure everything fits comfortably in the pot. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Not Tenderizing the Steak: Tenderizing helps break down tough muscle fibers, so don’t skip it unless you prefer a chewier texture.
4. Cooking on High Heat for Too Long: Low and slow is the key to tender, flavorful meat. High heat may dry out the steak.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve Crockpot Swiss Steak over:

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Egg noodles
• Polenta

Garnish Ideas:

• Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color

How to Serve Crockpot Swiss Steak

Crockpot Swiss Steak is best served hot, spooned over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles. The thick, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with starchy sides, soaking up all the savory juices. If you want a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Swiss Steak

1. Rustic Plating: Serve the steak in a shallow bowl with sauce ladled over the top, allowing some of the vegetables to peek through.
2. Family-Style Serving: Place the cooked steak on a platter and pour the sauce and vegetables over it. Garnish with fresh herbs.
3. Elegant Individual Portions: Plate each piece of steak individually on a bed of mashed potatoes with a drizzle of sauce on top and a sprig of parsley for garnish.

Crockpot Swiss Steak Recipe Tips

1. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the ingredients the night before. Just layer them in the crockpot, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, set the crockpot to low, and let it cook while you’re at work.
2. Freezing Leftovers: Crockpot Swiss Steak freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, thicken it with cornstarch, or add more tomato paste for a richer flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use cuts like chuck steak, blade steak, or even pork shoulder. The cooking time may vary slightly, but the results will still be tender and flavorful.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce, to the sauce mixture. Jalapeños can also be added for extra heat.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
A: Absolutely! You can use a Dutch oven and cook it on the stovetop or in the oven at 300°F for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warm.

Q: Can I add wine to the sauce?
A: Yes, adding a bit of red wine will deepen the flavors. Just be sure to reduce the beef broth slightly to balance the liquid ratio.

Conclusion

Crockpot Swiss Steak is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy tender, flavorful beef cooked in a rich, savory sauce. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just want a delicious, home-cooked meal, this Crockpot Swiss Steak recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let it work its magic! Happy cooking!

Print