Name: Slow Cooker Swiss Steak
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 320 min
Ingredients: 2 to 2 1/2 pounds cubed steak; salt and pepper; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil; 1 medium onion (sliced); 1 green bell pepper green bell pepper (sliced); 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 2 14.5-ounce cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes with garlic (undrained); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons brown sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 garlic cloves (minced)

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There’s something about a tender, flavorful dish like Slow Cooker Swiss Steak that brings back warm memories of home-cooked meals shared with family. I still remember those chilly winter evenings when the aroma of savory steaks simmering in rich tomato sauce filled the house, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. My mom would toss the ingredients into the slow cooker before heading out for the day, and by dinner time, we’d be greeted with a deliciously comforting meal that left us feeling grateful and satisfied. It’s one of those recipes that just feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for warming you up and lifting your spirits.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
300 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Slow Cooker, Baking Sheet

Why This Slow Cooker Swiss Steak Is So Good

Hearty and Filling

When it comes to comfort food, the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak truly shines. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy get-togethers. The tender pieces of cubed steak are enveloped in a rich sauce that brings out the best in each ingredient.

Perfect for Busy Schedules

One of the best parts about this recipe is how effortless it is to prepare. Just season the steak, toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you go about your day. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatility

The Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is incredibly versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Want to throw in some mushrooms or carrots? Go for it! The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to adapt to your tastes.

A Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is perfect for gatherings or potlucks. The delicious aroma and mouthwatering flavors will surely impress your guests. Pair it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s a reason this dish is a classic. The combination of tender beef, savory sauce, and aromatic vegetables creates a warm embrace of flavors that makes you feel right at home. It’s the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite has been savored.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

Cooking is all about the ingredients you choose. The combination of flavors in the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak comes from fresh, wholesome ingredients that meld together beautifully during cooking. Key players include rich cubed steak, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables that all contribute to the depth of flavor in this hearty dish.

2 to 2 1/2 pounds cubed steak – This is the star of your dish. Look for cuts that are well-marbled for tenderness and flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the steak and enhancing the overall flavors of the dish.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Used to coat the steak, giving it a lovely crust when browned.
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil – This is used for browning the steak, adding a delicious layer of flavor.
1 medium onion, sliced – Contributes sweetness and depth to the dish.
1 green bell pepper, sliced – Adds color and a subtle crunch.
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce – A key ingredient that brings a rich, savory flavor.
2 (14.5-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes with garlic, undrained – These add body and a slightly smoky flavor.
3 tablespoons tomato paste – Helps to thicken the sauce and intensify the tomato flavor.
2 teaspoons brown sugar – Balances out the acidity from the tomatoes.
1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs that adds a wonderful aroma.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Enhances the flavor profile with its earthy notes.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of heat without being overwhelming.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds additional seasoning.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Imparts a robust flavor that complements the beef.

Directions for Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

Cooking the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a delightful experience that requires minimal effort. Just follow these detailed steps to create a meal your family will love. Let’s get started!

Start by seasoning the cubed steak with salt and pepper. This initial step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of the meat. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it will permeate the dish.
Next, place flour in a shallow bowl. Take each seasoned piece of steak and press both sides into the flour, ensuring an even coating. This will help create a delicious crust when you brown the meat.
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the floured steak pieces. Sear each side until golden brown, which should take about three to four minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds a rich flavor.
While the steak is browning, prepare your slow cooker. Place the sliced onion and green pepper at the bottom. They’ll create a beautiful bed for the steak to rest on, infusing their flavors into the meat as it cooks.
Once browned, place the steak directly on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Don’t worry about the skillet; you’ll be adding delicious ingredients shortly!
In the same skillet, carefully add the Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, thyme, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and minced garlic. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom to release any tasty bits stuck to the pan.
Pour this flavorful mixture over the steak in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well-covered. This is where the magic happens; all these ingredients meld together to create a mouthwatering sauce.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for five to six hours, or HIGH for three to four hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the steak will become. You want it meltingly tender!
Once the cooking time is up, check the seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it.
Serve your Slow Cooker Swiss Steak over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a crusty piece of bread. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the warm atmosphere it creates around your dinner table!

Things Worth Knowing

Rest the Meat: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after browning. This helps retain the juices.
Slow Cooking: The longer you cook, the more tender the steak will be. Low and slow is the key!
Flavor Infusion: For even richer flavor, consider marinating the steak overnight with the Worcestershire sauce.
Thickening Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.

Tips and Tricks about Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Swiss Steak can be made easier with a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance out the flavors.
Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model. Always check for doneness and adjust as needed.
Serving Size: This recipe serves four, but it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

When it comes to serving the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak, you have plenty of options to create a delightful meal experience.

Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the steak and sauce generously over creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy seeps in, adding an incredible flavor.
With Rice: A bed of fluffy rice is another great option to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crusty Bread: Offer a side of crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy every last bite!
Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables to add color and nutrition to your plate.
For Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy winter dinners. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers in a savory sandwich or as a filling for tacos for a delicious twist.

FAQ

You can serve Slow Cooker Swiss Steak with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, as they soak up the delicious sauce beautifully. If you prefer something lighter, a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables would pair wonderfully. You could also serve it over rice or with crusty bread for dipping. These options not only complement the flavors of the dish but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!

Yes, Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a great dish to prepare ahead of time. You can brown the steak and combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just set it to cook while you’re out for the day. This allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender, making for an even more delicious meal by the time you’re ready to serve!

While Swiss Steak and Salisbury Steak may seem similar, there are key differences. Swiss Steak is typically made with cubed or round steak that is braised in a rich tomato-based sauce. This method allows the meat to become tender and flavorful over a long cooking time. On the other hand, Salisbury Steak is made from ground beef that is shaped into patties and often served with gravy. Each dish has its own unique preparation and flavor, but they both provide that comforting, hearty experience!

Absolutely! Adding vegetables to your Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a fantastic way to enhance the dish. You can toss in carrots, mushrooms, or even potatoes for a complete meal in one pot. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a colorful variety of textures and flavors to the final dish!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Swiss Steak stands out as a comforting and flavorful dish that warms the heart and home. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I encourage you to try it soon; you won’t be disappointed!