Why You’ll Love This Smothered Swiss Steak Recipe
You’re going to love this Smothered Swiss Steak recipe for its incredible flavors and ease of preparation.
The tender beef absorbs a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible. I enjoy how it warms me up on chilly evenings, filling my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder! I can toss everything into the slow cooker and forget about it for hours.
When I finally dig in, the steak is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sauce is perfect over rice or mashed potatoes.
Trust me, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your home, just like it’s in mine!
Ingredients of Smothered Swiss Steak
When it comes to making a cozy and hearty meal, the ingredients for Creamy Tomato Smothered Swiss Steak really set the stage for something special. This dish brings together a handful of simple yet flavorful components that create a delicious symphony of tastes.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how these everyday ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. So, let’s dive right into what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless beef top round steaks (cut into 4 serving pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion (halved lengthwise, then thinly sliced)
- 1 medium carrot (shredded, about 1/3 cup)
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, the beef top round is a great cut for this recipe because it becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
If you can’t find top round, don’t worry! You could use another cut like chuck or even flank steak—just be mindful that cooking times may vary a bit.
And about that cream of chicken soup—feel free to use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake. You can also substitute it with a homemade cream sauce if you’re feeling adventurous, but let’s be real, sometimes the can is just too easy and reliable.
Finally, the onion and carrot pack in some sweetness and texture, balancing the savory flavors beautifully.
How to Make Smothered Swiss Steak
Making Creamy Tomato Smothered Swiss Steak is like giving your kitchen a warm hug. It all begins with 1 1/2 lbs of boneless beef top round steaks, which you’ll cut into four pieces. Grab that trusty salt—1 teaspoon—and sprinkle it over the beef along with 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. This simple seasoning is the start of something delicious.
Now, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer a bit, like it’s ready to dance. Place the seasoned beef in the skillet and let it sizzle for about 4 to 6 minutes, turning it once until it’s beautifully browned on both sides. Don’t skip this step; it’s where all the flavor starts to develop.
Once your beef is browned, it’s time to bring in the big guns: your 3-4 quart crock pot. Give it a quick spray with cooking spray so the steak doesn’t stick like a stubborn roommate.
Now, in that same skillet you used for the beef, toss in your 1 medium onion (sliced thin) and 1 medium carrot (shredded, about 1/3 cup). Sauté them for a few minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. The aroma of onions cooking is like a welcome party for the senses, right?
After that, grab a can of 10 3/4 ounces of cream of chicken soup and an 8-ounce can of tomato sauce. Mix them together in the skillet, and pour this creamy goodness over the beef in the crock pot. Cover it up and let it work its magic on low heat for 8 to 10 hours. Yes, you heard that right—just let it be while you go about your day.
When it’s finally time to serve, give the sauce a good stir to blend everything together. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Smothered Swiss Steak Substitutions & Variations
While the classic creamy tomato smothered Swiss steak recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate this dish even further.
For instance, you can swap the beef for pork or chicken for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try using low-fat cream of chicken soup or even a homemade tomato sauce.
Adding bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the veggie profile too. Feel free to sprinkle some Italian herbs for extra depth, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Get creative and make it your own!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your creamy tomato smothered Swiss steak turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping your ingredients ahead of time. This not only saves you stress during cooking but also guarantees everything’s ready when you need it.
Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds flavor! If you want extra depth, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the sauce.
For a thicker sauce, let it cook a bit longer uncovered. Finally, serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your dish, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!