Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

by

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Marinate the Steak:
    Place steaks in a shallow dish and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

    1. 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! 🥩

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