Experience the crispy, golden-brown glory of authentic Chicken Fried Steak smothered in creamy peppered gravy – a legendary Southern dish that turns budget-friendly cube steak into a soul-satisfying masterpiece. Our perfected recipe delivers that iconic crunchy coating and velvety gravy that’ll transport you straight to a Texas roadhouse!
Ingredients
(Professional Tip: Use a meat mallet to tenderize the steak for maximum juiciness.)
. Steak:
4 (6-8 oz) cube steaks (or round steak, pounded thin)
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar; for marinating)
1 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs , beaten
Vegetable oil , for frying
. Gravy:
3 tbsp pan drippings (or butter)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Marinate the Steak:
Place steaks in a shallow dish and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
Prep the Breading:
Mix ½ cup flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
Place remaining ½ cup flour in a second bowl.
Beat eggs in a third bowl.
Bread the Steak:
Remove steaks from buttermilk (let excess drip off). Dredge in plain flour, dip in egg, then coat in seasoned flour. Press gently to adhere.
Fry the Steak:
Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (350–375°F/175–190°C). Fry steaks 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a rack or paper towels.
Make the Gravy:
Pour off all but 3 tbsp of oil. Whisk in 3 tbsp flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and garlic powder. Simmer until thickened (3-5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
Serve:
Slice steak or serve whole, topped with gravy.
Pro Tips for Success
Crispy Hack: Let breaded steaks rest 5 minutes before frying to set the coating.
Gravy Fix: If too thick, add milk. If too thin, simmer longer.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari for dredging.
Double Duty: Use leftover gravy for biscuits or mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and cornbread.
Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower mash or roasted veggies.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 480 | Fat: 24g | Carbs: 32g | Protein: 32g | Fiber: 1g
Why This Recipe Works
The buttermilk tenderizes the steak, while the double-dredging method creates an ultra-crispy crust. The gravy, made from pan drippings, captures all the savory, smoky flavors of the fried steak for a soul-warming finish.
SEO & Photography Notes
Keywords: Chicken fried steak recipe, Southern comfort food, creamy gravy steak, how to make fried steak
Visuals: Highlight the golden-brown crust, creamy gravy drizzle, and a cross-section showing the tender steak. Style with a checkered tablecloth, cast-iron skillet, and fresh herbs. Use warm, rustic lighting.
Customize Your Dish!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the gravy.
Herb Twist: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary to the breading.
Cheesy Gravy: Stir ¼ cup shredded cheddar into the gravy.
Let me know if you’d like an oven-baked version or tips for meal prepping!
