Crispy, golden, and smothered in silky homemade gravy — Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate comfort food classic. This Southern favorite combines tender cube steak coated in a crunchy, seasoned crust with a rich, peppery white gravy that pulls everything together. It’s the kind of cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
✨ Ingredients
For the Steaks
-
4 cube steaks
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
2 large eggs
-
¼ cup milk
-
Oil, for frying
For the Gravy
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
2 cups milk
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Coatings
In one shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
2. Dredge the Steaks
Dip each cube steak into the seasoned flour, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour again for a perfect double coating.
3. Fry Until Crispy
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, carefully add the steaks and fry for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
4. Make the Gravy
In a clean skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Cook until thick and creamy, then season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Plate the crispy steaks and spoon the warm, creamy gravy over the top.
Serve immediately — ideally with mashed potatoes, buttermilk biscuits, or buttery corn on the side for the full Southern experience.
💡 Tips for Success
-
For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
-
Let the coated steaks rest for a few minutes before frying — it helps the crust stick better.
-
Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest gravy.
-
Don’t skip the double dredge — that’s what gives the steak its signature crunch!