Copycat McCormick Swiss Steak Bag and Seasoning: A Culinary Blast from the Past

I can almost smell it now – the comforting aroma of tender steak simmering in a rich tomato sauce, a dish my grandma used to make every Sunday. Back then, she swore by those little McCormick Swiss Steak seasoning bags, and the ritual of tearing one open, the anticipation of that classic flavor, is etched in my memory. Unfortunately, those bags are harder to find these days. So, I set out to recreate that iconic taste from scratch, and I think I’ve cracked the code. This copycat recipe captures all the magic of the original, perhaps even elevates it, delivering a deeply satisfying and flavorful Swiss steak that will transport you back to simpler times.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 3
• Yields: 6 pieces
• Dietary Type: Generally adaptable to Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons instant minced onion
• 1 tablespoon dried green bell pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (coarse ground recommended) or 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 lbs round steak (eye of round is suitable)

Note: For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. If you can’t find dried green bell pepper, dehydrate your own or use a finely chopped fresh green bell pepper, cooked until softened, then dried slightly on paper towels before adding to the spice blend. Lemon pepper provides a zing, but coarse ground black pepper works perfectly for a more traditional flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Resealable jar or spice container
• Small electric chopper or spice grinder (optional, for powdering the spices)
• Baking dish
• Cooking bag (such as an oven bag)
• Fork

Instructions

1. In a resealable jar (or directly in your spice container), combine the flour, instant minced onion, dried green bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper (or lemon pepper), and paprika.
2. Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. (Optional step for a finer texture): For a more powdered consistency similar to the original seasoning bag, transfer the spice mixture to a small electric chopper or spice grinder. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely ground. This will ensure even distribution of flavors on the steak.
4. Store the dry Swiss steak seasoning in a cool, dry, and dark place for up to one month. This prevents the spices from losing their potency.
5. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
6. Prepare the Swiss steak. Generously sprinkle the dry seasoning mixture over both sides of the round steak. Use a fork to pierce the steak all over. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
7. Allow the seasoned steak to sit for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the steak to begin absorbing the spices.
8. In a separate bowl, combine the 8 oz of tomato sauce and 1 cup of water. Stir well until fully incorporated.
9. Place the seasoned round steak in a cooking bag. This helps keep the steak incredibly moist and tender during baking.
10. Pour the tomato sauce and water mixture over the steak inside the cooking bag.
11. Secure the cooking bag according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to pierce the top of the bag in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the bag from bursting.
12. Place the cooking bag with the steak in a baking dish.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the steak is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steak.
14. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Tenderizing the Steak: For an extra tender steak, consider using a meat mallet to pound the round steak before seasoning. This breaks down the muscle fibers and helps it cook more evenly.
• Flavor Depth: Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the tomato sauce mixture will boost the savory depth of the dish.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of black pepper or lemon pepper to your personal preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount slightly. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend.
• Browning the Steak: For enhanced flavor and appearance, you can quickly sear the steak in a hot skillet with a little oil before placing it in the cooking bag. This creates a beautiful crust that adds a nice textural contrast.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Swiss steak hot, spooning the delicious tomato sauce over the steak. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or creamy polenta. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad also make excellent accompaniments.

Storage: Leftover Swiss steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the steak and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or beef broth to the sauce to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Swiss steak in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated values, will vary depending on specific ingredients used)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	350 kcal	18%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	90mg	30%
Sodium	1200mg	50%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Sugars	7g	–
Protein	40g	80%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian “Swiss Steak”: Substitute the round steak with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, pressing out excess water before seasoning.
• Slow Cooker Swiss Steak: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Spicy Swiss Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Swiss Steak: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an even richer, earthier flavor.
• Wine-Infused Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of red wine to the tomato sauce mixture for a more complex and sophisticated flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: While round steak is traditional, you can also use sirloin or chuck steak. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness and tenderness of the cut.

Q: Can I make the seasoning mix ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The dry seasoning mix can be prepared weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Q: What if I don’t have a cooking bag?
A: If you don’t have a cooking bag, you can bake the steak in a covered baking dish. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the dish to keep the steak moist.

Q: My steak is tough, what did I do wrong?
A: Round steak can be tough if not cooked properly. Make sure to tenderize it well, pierce it with a fork, and cook it until it’s fork-tender. Slow cooking or braising can also help.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
A: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like sliced onions, carrots, or potatoes to the baking dish for a complete one-pot meal.

Final Thoughts

This copycat McCormick Swiss Steak recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia, a connection to family traditions, and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Don’t be intimidated by making your own seasoning blend – it’s incredibly easy and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a comforting and flavorful Swiss steak that will become a family favorite for years to come. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback! And if you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon for an unforgettable dining experience.