Gather around, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into the heart of comfort food with a smothered steak recipe that’s sure to warm your soul and fill your belly. This dish is all about tender steak, rich gravy, and the kind of flavors that make you close your eyes and sigh with happiness.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooking process ensures the steak becomes fork-tender, melting in your mouth with every bite.
- A rich, homemade gravy smothers the steak, adding layers of flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both rustic and elegant, perfect for any occasion.
- This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef round steak, cut into 4 pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by patting the steak pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the flour coating stick better. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge each steak piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Tip: Let the steak sit for a few minutes after coating to help the flour adhere better.
Step 2: Brown the Steak
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak pieces. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the steak and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as the vegetables cook; these add incredible flavor to the gravy.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the remaining flour mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a gravy.
Step 5: Simmer the Steak
Return the steak pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the steak is very tender. Check occasionally and add more broth if the gravy becomes too thick. Tip: For extra tender steak, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated 300°F oven and bake for the same amount of time.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider using a combination of beef broth and red wine in the gravy. If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can reduce the cooking time significantly—just follow your appliance’s instructions for beef. Don’t skip the step of letting the flour-coated steak sit; it makes a noticeable difference in the final texture. For a thicker gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) at the end of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Swap out the beef for chicken or pork for a different take on the dish.
- Add mushrooms to the vegetable mix for an earthy flavor and extra texture.
- Use coconut milk instead of beef broth for a dairy-free gravy option.
- Top with crispy bacon bits before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture of the gravy might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen the gravy if necessary.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, smothered steak freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Summary
This smothered steak recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With tender steak, rich gravy, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
