What makes a perfect comfort food dinner? Tender swiss steaks, homemade mashed potatoes and rich gravy, all made easy in a crockpot for a quick weeknight dinner, save this idea for a family favorite meal to try soon

crockpot swiss steaks with mashed potatoes and gravy on the side

Introduction

Cooking a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the help of a crockpot, you can create a mouth-watering dish like Swiss steaks with mashed potatoes and gravy, using everyday ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and creativity. The slow-cooked Swiss steaks are tender and juicy, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich, savory gravy that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe combines the richness of beef with the earthiness of mushrooms and the comfort of mashed potatoes, all of which are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The use of a crockpot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to prepare the ingredients in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include top round or top sirloin steaks, which are ideal for slow cooking due to their tenderness and flavor. You’ll also need some onions, mushrooms, and garlic for added flavor, as well as beef broth and tomato paste for the gravy. For the mashed potatoes, you’ll need Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, butter, milk, and some salt and pepper to taste. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using different types of potatoes or adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the crockpot.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by seasoning the steaks with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Chop the onions and mushrooms, and mince the garlic. Heat some oil in a pan and sear the steak on both sides until browned, then set it aside.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onions and mushrooms to the pan and cook until they’re softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Place the steak in the crockpot, followed by the cooked onions and mushrooms, and pour in the beef broth and tomato paste. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule and preference.
4. Step 4: About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the mashed potatoes by boiling the diced potatoes until they’re tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Serve the Swiss steaks with the mashed potatoes and a side of gravy, which can be made by straining the cooking liquid from the crockpot and whisking in some flour or cornstarch to thicken.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to brown the steak properly before adding it to the crockpot, as this will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Also, don’t overcook the potatoes, as they can become gluey and unappetizing.

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s essential to cook the steak and vegetables on low heat for an extended period, as this will break down the connective tissues in the meat and create a tender, fall-apart texture. The ideal temperature for cooking the steak is between 150°F and 160°F, which can be achieved by cooking it on low for 8-10 hours. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the steak; it should slide in easily and come out clean.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the sautéed onions and mushrooms, which add a nice texture contrast to the tender steak and creamy mashed potatoes. To achieve this, make sure to cook the onions and mushrooms until they’re softened and fragrant, but still slightly crunchy. You can also add some crispy bacon or chopped nuts on top of the mashed potatoes for extra crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the dish, use high-quality ingredients like grass-fed beef and fresh mushrooms. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings, such as paprika or thyme, to add depth and complexity to the recipe.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Swiss steaks and mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave the leftovers until they’re hot and steaming, or reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This recipe is perfect for gift-giving, especially during the holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging the Swiss steaks and mashed potatoes in a decorative tin or container, along with a side of gravy and some crusty bread. You can also add some fresh herbs or edible flowers on top for a pop of color and fragrance.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some cumin or chili powder to the steak for a spicy kick, or use some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more savory flavor.
• Creative toppings: Add some crispy onions or mushrooms on top of the mashed potatoes, or use some grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan for extra flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, or add some other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the crockpot.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the steak is too tough or chewy, it may be due to overcooking or using low-quality ingredients. Try cooking the steak for a shorter amount of time or using a more tender cut of meat.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have any beef broth, you can use chicken or vegetable broth as a substitute. You can also use different types of cheese or spices to add flavor to the dish.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the steak for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat; it should slide in easily and come out clean. If the potatoes are too mushy or gluey, it may be due to overcooking; try cooking them for a shorter amount of time or using a different type of potato.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the Swiss steaks and mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. However, be sure to check the ingredients of the beef broth and tomato paste to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the steak and potatoes in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this recipe for crockpot Swiss steaks with mashed potatoes and gravy is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious and easy meal. With its tender steak, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and be sure to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!