Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern classic that combines tender, juicy beef steaks with a golden, crispy coating, all smothered in rich and creamy country gravy. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish is packed with flavor and texture, making it a comforting favorite for any occasion.

📋 Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 4 beef cube steaks , approximately 1 cm thick
• 2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1.5 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour , divided
• 1 teaspoon (2 g) paprika
• ½ teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper , optional
• 1 teaspoon (3 g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (3 g) onion powder
• Salt , to taste
• Black pepper , to taste
• Vegetable oil , for shallow frying

For the Gravy:

• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups (600 ml) whole milk
• Salt , to taste
• Black pepper , to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

1. Arrange the cube steaks between layers of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each steak to a thickness of 0.5 cm for even tenderization.
2. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper .

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs .
2. In a separate dish, combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour , paprika , cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder , onion powder , and a pinch of salt and black pepper .

Step 3: Bread the Steaks

1. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring full coverage on both sides. Shake off any excess.
2. Dip the floured steak into the buttermilk mixture , allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Return the steak to the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create an even, thick coating. Place the breaded steaks on a plate while you prepare the skillet.

Step 4: Fry the Steaks

1. Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet until it reaches a depth of about 1.25 cm . Heat over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering.
2. Fry the steaks in batches for 3–4 minutes per side , turning once, until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
3. Transfer the fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Country Gravy

1. Carefully pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 30 ml and the browned bits (fond).
2. Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a light roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk , scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 5–7 minutes .
4. Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Arrange the fried steaks on plates and generously ladle the hot country gravy over each portion.
2. Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.

Tips for Success

• Buttermilk Soak (Optional): For extra tenderness and flavor, soak the steaks in buttermilk for 1–2 hours (or overnight) before breading.
• Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn; if it’s too cool, the steaks will absorb excess oil.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes to reduce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak is a flavorful, indulgent dish that brings the best of Southern comfort food to your table. The buttermilk-soaked steaks are incredibly tender, while the double-coated breading creates a satisfying crunch. Paired with creamy, savory country gravy, this dish is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Dive into this crispy, creamy delight and let it become a staple in your kitchen!

⏱ Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes

🍽 Servings:

4 servings

🔥 Calories (Approximate):

~550 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and sides)