Small Slow Cooker Swiss Steak is one of those easy classic recipes, made with tender slices of sirloin simmered in a savory tomato and onion infused sauce. Portioned perfectly for one hearty appetite of two smaller ones. This recipe comes together easily in a small 2-quart slow cooker, delivering that old-fashioned home-cooked flavor with minimal effort.

Beef stew with tomatoes and herbs served over mashed potatoes on a white plate, with slices of bread in the background.

Just the right amount for a hearty solo meal and maybe a bit for lunch the next day. Simple ingredients and minimal steps mean you can set it and forget it. The onion soup mix and steak sauce bring bold taste to this small batch. Slow cooking ensures the steak becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Ingredients Notes

Raw beef strips on a wooden board surrounded by bowls of flour, diced tomatoes, dry seasoning, broth, and a dark sauce on a light surface.

Sirloin is flavorful and tender when sliced thin. You can substitute with round steak or chuck for a more budget-friendly option, though they may require slightly more cook time for optimal tenderness.
Onion soup mix: Adds rich, savory flavor. You can use homemade onion soup mix or a bouillon and dried onion blend in a pinch.
Steak sauce: Provides tang and umami. Brands like A1 work well, but Worcestershire sauce can be used as a lighter alternative.
Roma tomato, diced: Offers a fresh pop of flavor and texture. Canned diced tomatoes (drained) can work in a pinch.

Recipe Notes

Slice against the grain: This step is essential for tender bites.
Layering matters: Placing the steak on the bottom ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Don’t skip the flour: It thickens the sauce while the steak cooks.
Check tenderness: At the 5-hour mark, the steak should be fork-tender. If not, give it another 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Swiss steak over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Pair it with a side of green beans, steamed carrots, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Step-by-Step Photos for Swiss Steak Recipe

Three-panel image showing a slow cooker with frozen meat, then with added chopped tomatoes, onions, and sauce, and finally the cooked dish with a fork and napkin beside the slow cooker.

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