Are you searching for a hearty and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than Slow Cooker Swiss Steak! This timeless dish features tender beef blade steaks smothered in a savory mushroom and onion gravy, all cooked to perfection in the convenience of your slow cooker. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving some classic comfort food, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the world of Slow Cooker Swiss Steak and learn how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 6 average-sized beef blade steaks
- 1 average-sized onion, cut into slices
- 8 ounces of thinly sliced fresh mushrooms
- 3/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of cream
- 1/4 cup of dry sherry
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of minced fresh thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of mild paprika
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steaks: Season the beef blade steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Coat with Flour: In a shallow dish, spread out the all-purpose flour. Dredge each steak in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the steaks on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned steaks to the slow cooker.
- Layer with Onions and Mushrooms: Arrange the sliced onions and mushrooms over the top of the steaks in the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream, dry sherry, minced thyme, and mild paprika until well combined. Pour the sauce over the steaks, onions, and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the steaks are tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Once the steaks are cooked to perfection, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Cook Notes:
- Choosing the Right Cut: Beef blade steaks are ideal for slow cooking as they become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. However, you can also use other cuts such as chuck steak or round steak if preferred.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Adjusting the Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for added flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef steaks with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu. Increase the amount of mushrooms and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty meatless meal.
- Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to coat the steaks. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, including the chicken broth and dry sherry.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Slow Cooker Swiss Steak, omit the flour coating on the steaks and thicken the sauce with xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener instead. Serve the steak and gravy over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or round steak instead of blade steaks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the meat.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of Slow Cooker Swiss Steak? A: Absolutely! Allow the leftover steak and gravy to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Q: Can I add extra vegetables to the slow cooker? A: Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the steaks for added flavor and nutrition.
Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef, savory gravy, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience. So dust off your slow cooker and give this classic dish a try – you won’t be disappointed!
