Every time I make Oven Roasted Swiss Steak, it takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of tender meat combined with savory spices would fill the air. I can still picture her bustling around, laughter echoing as we gathered around the table for Sunday dinners. Those were special times, filled with love and comfort, and the food was the heart of it all. I know that once you try this recipe, it’ll create similar memories for you and your family. The joy that comes from cooking and sharing a meal is irreplaceable, and that’s why I’m so excited to share my Oven Roasted Swiss Steak recipe with you!
This dish is not only delightful but also incredibly soul-satisfying. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something comforting. Just imagining the juicy, flavorful Swiss steak melting in your mouth fills me with warmth. I can guarantee that your family will ask for seconds and maybe even thirds. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
How to Make Oven Roasted Swiss Steak
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Swiss steak (beef) | 2 lbs |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1, sliced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup (canned or fresh) |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried thyme (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
I love adding fresh herbs like thyme; they provide an incredible aroma and flavor that will make your kitchen smell heavenly! You can easily substitute fresh herbs with dried ones if that’s what you have on hand. It still turns out delicious!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your Swiss steak cooks evenly and becomes tender.
2. Sear the Meat
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the Swiss steak dry and season it generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the Swiss steak on both sides until it’s nicely browned. This will lock in those lovely juices! Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add your sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. It’s amazing how this step brings out their natural sweetness!
4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Now, pour in 1 cup of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth. Stir it all together, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet to add more flavor to your sauce.
5. Season the Mixture
Next, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if you’re using it. This adds a depth of flavor that complements the beef perfectly!
6. Place the Steak in a Baking Dish
Transfer the seared Swiss steak to a baking dish.
7. Pour the Mixture Over the Steak
Pour the savory broth and vegetable mixture over the steak, making sure it’s well covered. The liquid helps in keeping the meat moist and flavorful while it cooks.
8. Cover with Foil
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps trap the steam, making the steak tender as it roasts.
9. Roast in the Oven
Place the covered baking dish in your preheated oven. Let it roast for about 2 to 2.5 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender it gets.
10. Check for Tenderness
After the time is up, carefully remove the foil and check if the steak is fork-tender. If it’s not quite there, cover it again and give it more time.
11. Serve It Up
Once your oven-roasted Swiss steak is ready, let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it up, spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes this Oven Roasted Swiss Steak special for me is how it brings everyone together. The aroma wafts through the house, drawing my family in, and I can feel the excitement building. When I see their faces light up as they take the first bite, it warms my heart. It’s truly a labor of love!
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a few special tools to make this dish: a good-quality skillet for searing and a covered baking dish to hold everything during roasting. A sharp knife for slicing the steak is also essential!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Sear the Swiss steak until browned on both sides.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet.
- Season with Worcestershire sauce and thyme.
- Pour the mixture over the steak in a baking dish.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Roast for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Tips for Perfect Results
Make sure to sear the meat well—this step enhances the flavor immensely! I also recommend using a meat thermometer to check for tenderness; the juices should run clear when it’s done cooking. If you have time the night before, season the meat and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight. It adds even more flavor and tenderness! Don’t rush the process. Good things come to those who wait, and this dish is a true testament to that saying!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Oven Roasted Swiss Steak pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. You could also serve it alongside fresh steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. The rich sauce is perfect for drizzling on your sides, making every bite irresistible!
Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! This dish heats up beautifully. Simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
FAQ Section
Can I use different cuts of beef?
You sure can! While Swiss steak is my go-to, chuck roast or flank steak can work well too. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the cut.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No problem! You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch, although the flavor may not be as rich.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It can freeze well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Conclusion
This Oven Roasted Swiss Steak has truly become a beloved staple in my home. I can’t wait for you to try it! The tenderness of the meat and the wonderfully rich flavors are bound to make you smile. You’ll feel the warmth and comfort of home cooking wrapping around you, just like I do. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together. I’d love to hear how your family enjoys it—who knows? You might even create new traditions around this delightful dish!
Oven Roasted Swiss Steak
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Swiss steak (beef)
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 1 Onion, sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (optional) Fresh herbs can be used for better aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (for garnish), chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the Swiss steak dry, season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and sear it on both sides until browned. Remove the steak and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet, stirring to scrape up brown bits for added flavor.
- Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme (if using).
- Transfer the seared steak to a baking dish and pour the broth and vegetable mixture over it.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Roast in the oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours or until the steak is tender.
- Check for tenderness after roasting. If not fork-tender, re-cover and roast longer.
- Once cooked, let the Swiss steak rest for a few minutes, slice it, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.