Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a beloved Southern dish that has become a staple in many households across the United States. The crispy, golden-brown steaks are paired with a rich and creamy gravy that takes comfort food to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to please. With its tender meat and mouthwatering gravy, it’s a true reflection of Southern culinary traditions. Let’s dive into how you can create this flavorful dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 pound each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup pan drippings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
instructions
1. Preparing the Steak
Start by preparing the breading mixture for the steak. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
Next, dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, coating it well on both sides. Dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring the steak is fully coated with the liquid. Finally, coat the steak in the flour mixture again for a thick, crispy layer. Once breaded, place the steaks on a wire rack and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This step helps the breading adhere better during frying.
2. Frying the Steaks
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the steaks but not so hot that the breading burns. Test the oil by dropping a small amount of flour into it — if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the breaded steaks into the skillet, frying them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steaks are golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to fry the steaks in batches. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Keep them warm while you prepare the gravy.
3. Making the Gravy
Using the same skillet where you fried the steaks, retain about 1/4 cup of the pan drippings. This adds flavor to your gravy. Over medium heat, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Slowly add 2 cups of whole milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the gravy for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serving
To serve, place each fried steak on a plate and spoon a generous portion of the creamy gravy over the top. Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad to round out your meal.
Variations and Tips
- Add spice to the gravy: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy. This will give the dish a subtle spicy kick without overwhelming the flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce: For an added depth of flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the egg mixture. This will enhance the savory profile of the dish.
- Tenderizing the steak: To ensure the cube steaks are tender, use a meat mallet to gently pound them before breading. This will help break down the muscle fibers and create a more tender bite.
- Rest the breaded steaks: Allow the breaded steaks to rest for a few minutes before frying. This will give the breading a chance to set, helping it stay intact during the frying process.
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is more than just a dish — it’s a taste of Southern comfort and tradition. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The crispy, golden steak pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory gravy, making it a dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger and your soul. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, friends, or on your own, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re craving comfort food, look no further than Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy for a meal that will transport you to the heart of Southern cuisine.