Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring crispy, golden-fried beef steaks smothered in rich, creamy white gravy. The crunchy coating and tender meat make this an irresistible meal that’s perfect for Sunday dinner or when you’re craving hearty home cooking.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Steaks:
4 cube steaks (about ½ inch thick)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Gravy:
4 tablespoons pan drippings (from frying)
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Steaks:
Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside. -
Set Up the Coating Station:
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and buttermilk together until smooth. -
Coat the Steaks:
Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and coat again with the flour. Press the coating firmly so it sticks. Place the coated steaks on a wire rack for 10 minutes to help the crust adhere. -
Fry the Steaks:
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C), add the steaks in batches. Fry for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel–lined plate and keep warm. -
Make the Gravy:
Carefully pour off most of the oil, leaving about 4 tablespoons with the brown bits in the pan. Lower the heat to medium. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper. -
Serve:
Place each steak on a plate and spoon the warm gravy generously over the top.
Tips:
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To keep steaks crispy, place them on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F) while making the gravy.
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If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
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Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a full Southern-style meal.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 720
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
