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Absolutely! Here’s a hearty and nostalgic article for your Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy recipe:
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy: A Southern Classic Done Right
Few dishes say “comfort food” quite like Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy. Crispy, golden-fried steak smothered in creamy, peppery white gravy—it’s a beloved Southern staple that has found fans across the country. Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, this dish delivers all the down-home flavor and stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction you could ask for.
This recipe brings all the flavors of classic diner fare or grandma’s kitchen right to your home. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy outside, tender inside: The buttermilk-and-flour coating creates the perfect crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
- Comfort food at its best: Rich, savory, and ultra-satisfying—ideal for when you want something hearty.
- That gravy! Creamy, seasoned white gravy ties everything together with its velvety, peppery finish.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive cuts of meat and pantry staples, making it a great choice for feeding a family.
What Is Chicken Fried Steak?
Despite the name, Chicken Fried Steak contains no chicken. It gets its name from the cooking method—steak is breaded and fried in the same way fried chicken is. It’s typically made with cube steak or another tenderized cut of beef, dredged in seasoned flour, and pan-fried until golden, then smothered in creamy white gravy.
Key Ingredients
- Cube steak: Tenderized beef, usually top round or sirloin, ideal for quick cooking and absorbing flavor.
- Buttermilk (optional): Helps tenderize the meat and gives the coating a light tang.
- Flour: For dredging and for making the gravy.
- Eggs: Bind the flour coating to the meat.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for flavor.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil.
- Milk or cream: Base for the gravy.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Essential for authentic Southern gravy with a kick.
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
1. Tenderize the meat (if needed):
- If your steaks aren’t already tenderized, pound them with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch thick.
2. Set up your dredging station:
- In one bowl, whisk together eggs and a splash of buttermilk.
- In another bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dredge the steaks:
- Dip each steak in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, then back in the flour. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Fry the steaks:
- Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
