If you’re craving a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that tastes like a warm hug from the South, this Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy, golden fried beef coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, paired with a luscious, velvety gravy that brings all the flavors together – it’s the kind of dish that turns any ordinary dinner into a beloved tradition. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or trying something new, this recipe delivers simple ingredients and straightforward steps with truly mouthwatering results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden crust we all adore. These pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s both rich and comforting.
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak: Choose a tender cut that will become juicy and flavorful once pounded thin and fried.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for a crispy crust and thickening the creamy gravy.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderizes the steak beautifully during marination.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as binding agents, helping the flour adhere perfectly to the steak.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: For frying to golden perfection without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a rich depth to the creamy gravy without being salty.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream: Makes the gravy luxuriously smooth and velvety.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to balance the flavors.
How to Make Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Tenderize the Steak
Start by pounding the beef round steak until it’s about half an inch thick. This step is crucial because it breaks down the tough fibers, ensuring every bite is tender and easy to chew. Plus, the thinner cut browns evenly, giving you that signature crispy crust.
Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk
Next, soak the steak in a mixture of buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and black pepper for at least one hour. The acidity in the buttermilk works its magic, tenderizing the meat and imparting a subtle tang that complements the richness of the gravy beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up two bowls side by side: one filled with seasoned all-purpose flour and the other with whisked eggs. The eggs will help the flour stick to the steak, creating that irresistible crunchy coating when fried.
Step 4: Bread the Steak
Dip the marinated steak first into the egg wash, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Don’t be shy — a good, even coating is what makes this dish so irresistibly crispy.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Fry each steak for about three minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. This quick frying keeps the steak juicy inside while creating the signature crunch outside.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Gravy
After frying, use the leftover oil in the pan to craft your gravy. Stir in a bit of flour until it turns golden, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens into a glossy, creamy sauce that’s perfect for ladling over your crispy steaks.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your hot, crispy country fried steaks and generously spoon that dreamy creamy gravy all over. This is the moment where the flavors marry and the dish becomes pure comfort on a plate.
How to Serve Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of green and a gentle freshness that cuts through the richness of the gravy. A squeeze of lemon on the side can brighten up the flavors if you want a little zing.
Side Dishes
Classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery green beans complement this dish wonderfully. For a heartier meal, creamy mac and cheese or roasted vegetables offer a nice balance. The creamy gravy also makes mashed potatoes the perfect vehicle for soaking up every flavorful drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the country fried steak in a biscuit sandwich with a spread of gravy and some crisp lettuce. You could also cut the steak into strips and serve it as a hearty appetizer with dipping gravy or turn it into a loaded skillet dinner by layering it with cheese and veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover country fried steak with creamy gravy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover steak and gravy separately for best results. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and foil, while the gravy should be cooled and stored in a freezer-safe container. Both can be kept frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat the steak gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain its crispiness. Warm the gravy separately in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Pour the heated gravy over the steak just before serving for that fresh-from-the-kitchen experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for country fried steak?
Absolutely! While beef round steak is traditional for this recipe, you can also use cube steak or sirloin. Just ensure it’s tenderized properly by pounding to achieve the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to use a blend that is suitable for frying to maintain the crispy crust.
Can I make the gravy dairy-free?
Sure! Swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free milk alternative like coconut or almond milk, and use dairy-free butter or oil to create the roux. The gravy will still be creamy and delicious.
How long should I marinate the steak?
Marinating the steak for at least one hour is ideal to tenderize it properly, but you can also marinate it overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
What oil is best for frying the steak?
Vegetable oil is great because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can also use canola or peanut oil if you prefer, as they handle frying temperatures well without affecting the taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe that brings comfort and joy to any kitchen. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor the flavors, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite comfort meal to return to again and again.
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Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Country Fried Steak is a beloved comfort food featuring tenderized beef round steak, breaded and fried to a golden crisp, then smothered in creamy, savory gravy. This Southern classic offers a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt (for marinating)
For Frying
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- Remaining seasoned flour from breading station (used in gravy preparation)
Instructions
- Tenderize Steak: Begin by pounding the beef round steak until it is about half an inch thick. This tenderizes the meat to ensure a juicy and tender final dish.
- Marinate: Place the pounded steak in a bowl and coat with buttermilk along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least one hour to enhance tenderness and flavor.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare two bowls: one with seasoned all-purpose flour mixed with black pepper and any desired seasoning, and the other with whisked eggs ready for dipping.
- Bread the Steak: Remove the steak from the buttermilk marinade, dip it first into the whisked eggs, then thoroughly coat it with the seasoned flour ensuring an even layer.
- Fry the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Fry the steak for about 3 minutes on each side or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Gravy: Using the leftover oil and flour bits from frying, stir until golden. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens to a smooth consistency.
- Serve: Place the fried steaks on a plate and generously top with the creamy gravy. Serve hot to enjoy the full flavors and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust and avoid greasy steak.
- Marinating in buttermilk is key for tenderizing the beef and adding subtle tanginess.
- If preferred, seasoning the flour with additional spices like garlic powder or paprika can add extra flavor.
- Keep the gravy warm before serving to maintain its smooth, creamy texture.
- This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a full Southern-inspired meal.
