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Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

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Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender beef round steak simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy with onions and green bell peppers. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth meat with deep, savory flavors and minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds beef round steak
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for browning)

Optional Variations & Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, carrots, or celery (for vegetable boost)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne (for spicy kick)
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano (to infuse the gravy)
  • Additional thickener: 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with water (for thickening gravy)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the beef round steak dry and lightly coat both sides with flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. This helps create a subtle crust on the meat and thickens the sauce during cooking.
  2. Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Quickly sear the coated steaks until browned on both sides. Browning seals in flavor and adds rich color to the final dish.
  3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the browned steak pieces in the slow cooker. Layer chopped onions and green peppers on top. Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add any optional vegetables or herbs if using.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low-and-slow method allows the beef to become tender and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
  5. Final Touches: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the gravy is too thin, mix some flour or cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the gravy.

Notes

  • Choose tougher cuts like round steak, chuck, or brisket, which become tender when slow cooked.
  • Browning the meat before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and better appearance.
  • Layer onions and peppers directly on the meat for even flavor distribution.
  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain temperature and timing.
  • Adjust gravy thickness at the end with a flour or cornstarch slurry as preferred.

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