Recipe

Bright Swiss Steak Recipe

Classic Swiss steak, but lighter: tender braised beef in a lemony tomato herb sauce with crisp edges and cozy vibes.

By Matt Campbell

•

4.8

A skillet of tender Swiss steak in a bright tomato herb sauce with lemon slices and chopped parsley

Swiss steak is usually the kind of dinner that feels like it belongs under a blanket: rich, brown, and slow-cooked until your fork basically gives up. I love that version. But sometimes you want the same tender, braisy comfort with a little more spark.

This bright Swiss steak keeps the cozy part, but swaps in a punchy tomato base, plenty of fresh herbs, and a finish of lemon that wakes the whole pan up. The sauce tastes like you tried harder than you did, which is my favorite kind of kitchen magic.

Tomato herb sauce simmering in a Dutch oven with browned beef nestled inside

Why It Works

Tender beef without drama: We tenderize with a quick pound and a steady braise. The flour dredge is there for browned flavor and a little body in the sauce.
Bright, not heavy: Tomatoes, a touch of vinegar, and lemon zest keep the sauce lively.
Big flavor from normal groceries: Canned tomatoes, pantry spices, and a handful of herbs do all the work.
Crisp edges still happen: A proper sear first means the beef tastes beefy, not just stewed.

Pairs Well With

Storage Tips

This is one of those dishes that gets even better after a night in the fridge. The herbs mellow, the beef relaxes, and the sauce tastes more “together.”

Refrigerate

Cool leftovers, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Keep beef submerged in sauce so it stays juicy.

Freeze

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheat

Warm gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water, 8 to 12 minutes over medium-low.
Microwave works too. Use 70 percent power and stir the sauce halfway through.

Common Questions

Why is it called Swiss steak if there is no cheese?

It is commonly said to be “Swiss” from the swissing technique, meaning tenderizing by pounding or rolling. It is not from Switzerland and it is not about Swiss cheese.

What cut of beef is best?

Top round is classic, affordable, and braises well. Bottom round works too. If you want a splurge, chuck steak becomes very tender, but it will be richer.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

Yes. Still do the sear first for flavor. Then cook on LOW 7 to 8 hours or HIGH 3 to 4 hours, or just go by the real finish line: fork-tender. Stir in fresh herbs and lemon at the end.

How do I keep the sauce from tasting too acidic?

Two fixes: add a small pinch of sugar or honey, and finish with a bit of butter. Also make sure you are using enough salt. Under-salted tomato sauce always tastes sharper than it should.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Sliced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers can go in with the onions. If you add potatoes, cut them small so they finish in time.

Matt Campbell

I have always had a huge passion for the culinary arts, people, working as a team, and so on. I wanted to pursue my love for cooking initially at Virginia Commonwealth University with a culinary arts degree; however, I instead decided to apply myself and acquire more practical skills. My end goal is to eventually open my own restaurant or similar establishment.

Kitchen Essentials

Dutch oven or heavy, oven-safe pot with lid (5 to 7 quarts)
Meat mallet or sturdy rolling pin
Shallow bowl or plate for dredging
Tongs
Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)

The first time I made Swiss steak, I treated it like a punishment meal. Brown sauce, soft beef, done. But once I started cooking more by instinct, I realized it was the perfect canvas for the flavors I actually crave: herbs, citrus, and a sauce that makes you want to swipe the pan with bread like you are hiding evidence.

This bright version is what I cook when I want comfort food that still feels awake. Like sweatpants, but with a clean haircut.

Bright Swiss Steak Recipe

(4.8 Reviews)

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 1 hr 45 mins

Total Time 2 hrs 5 mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

For the beef

2 pounds top round steak (about 1 inch thick), cut into 6 portions
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed)

For the bright herb tomato braise

1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted is great here, optional)
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 bay leaf

Finish (do not skip)

Zest of 1 lemon, plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or basil (optional but very good)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a silkier sauce)

Floured and seasoned beef steaks on a plate ready to be seared

Instructions

Heat the oven: Set oven to 325°F.
Tenderize the steak: Pat the beef dry. Cover with plastic wrap and pound from the center outward until the pieces are an even 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon of the salt and the pepper.
Dredge: In a shallow dish, mix flour and smoked paprika. Dredge each piece lightly, shaking off excess.
Sear for crisp edges: Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high. Sear beef 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned. Work in batches so the pan stays hot. Transfer beef to a plate.
Build the base: Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring, until softened and picking up browned bits. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Toast the tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute until it darkens slightly.
Make it bright: Add diced tomatoes, broth, vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot.
Braise: Nestle beef back into the sauce. Cover and transfer to oven. Cook 1 hour 30 minutes, until fork-tender. If you remember and it feels easy, flip the beef halfway through. If not, do not stress it.
Check tenderness and sauce: The beef should cut easily with a fork. If it is still tight, cover and braise 15 to 30 minutes more. If the sauce is thinner than you want, simmer on the stovetop 10 to 15 minutes with the lid off. If it gets too thick, loosen with a splash of broth.
Finish like you mean it: Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dill or basil. If you want a glossy sauce, stir in butter until melted.
Serve: Spoon sauce over the beef and serve with mashed potatoes, noodles, or crusty bread. Taste and adjust salt and lemon right at the end. That is where the “bright” lives.

Nutrition information is estimated.

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