A Tender Southern Round Steak Simmered in Tomato Gravy
Round Steak Dish is a comforting Southern classic featuring well-seasoned round steak stuffed with bacon and slowly simmered in a rich tomato gravy. The slow cooking transforms an economical cut of beef into a tender, flavorful meal that’s perfect for serving alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or homemade biscuits.
Featured in Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon, this recipe reflects the Southern tradition of turning simple ingredients into hearty family meals through patience and slow cooking.
Ingredients
- 3-1/2 pounds round steak
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1-1/2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cups tomatoes (cooked)
- 1-1/4 cups water
Serves: 5–7
Instructions
- Using a sharp knife, cut small pockets lengthwise into the round steak.
- Fill each pocket with bacon slices.
- Season the steak with the salt, black pepper, and red pepper.
- Melt the butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the steak on both sides until nicely seared.
- Add the brown sugar, cooked tomatoes, and water to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the steak is tender.
- Slice and serve with the tomato gravy spooned over the top.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- Slow simmering helps make round steak tender and flavorful.
- Bacon tucked inside the meat adds richness as it cooks.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered biscuits to enjoy the savory tomato gravy.
- Leftover gravy is delicious spooned over vegetables or cornbread.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern home cooking. Her cookbook highlights comforting dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions and celebrates the warmth of homemade meals prepared with simple ingredients and care.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
