Country Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This dish features tenderized beef steak, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and then fried to golden perfection. Topped with rich, creamy gravy, Country Fried Steak is the ultimate indulgence that satisfies both hunger and the soul. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a standout comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Country Fried Steak recipe is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The combination of savory beef, a crunchy crust, and velvety gravy creates a delightful explosion of flavors with each bite. Plus, it fits well into a hearty, home-cooked meal lifestyle, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying dish without the need for complex cooking techniques.
Tips and Tricks
- Tenderizing the Meat: Use a meat mallet to pound the steak evenly. This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures it cooks uniformly.
- Seasoning: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the steak in buttermilk overnight, if time allows. This adds moisture and depth to the flavor.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. A good test is to drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
- Resting Time: After frying, let the steak rest on a wire rack to maintain its crispiness and prevent it from getting soggy.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the steaks and the gravy in advance. Dredge the steaks in flour, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy version.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Prepare them in the same way for a delicious meatless option.
- Air Fryer: For a healthier version, cook the breaded steak in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve
Serve the Country Fried Steak hot, drizzled generously with creamy gravy. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or corn on the cob. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness. For a rustic touch, present it on a wooden board or a vintage plate.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, serve a chilled sweet tea or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. Complement the meal with classic Southern sides such as cornbread or coleslaw, and finish off with a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler for dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unbreaded, cooked steak for up to 3 months. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for frying to achieve that crispy crust. If unavailable, a heavy-bottomed frying pan will suffice.
- Meat Mallet: For tenderizing the steak. A rolling pin can work in a pinch.
- Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for ensuring your oil is at the right temperature.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk alternative for the buttermilk and omit any dairy in the gravy.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is inherently nut-free, but always check any pre-made ingredients (like broth) to ensure they are nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider using pumpkin spice in the flour mix for a seasonal twist. In the summer, fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be added to the flour for a bright, fresh flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of meat? Yes, you can use chicken fried steak, which uses chicken breast instead of beef.
- How do I know when the steak is done? The internal temperature should reach 145°F for beef. The exterior should be a deep golden brown.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, by using a gluten-free flour blend, you can easily adapt this recipe.
How To Make Country Fried Steak
Country Fried Steak
Country Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 beef round steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the gravy:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by tenderizing the beef steaks with a meat mallet until they are about ½ inch thick.
- Place the steaks in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the steaks from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off, and dredge them in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded steaks in the skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the steaks and let them rest on a wire rack while you prepare the gravy.
- In the same skillet, add ¼ cup of flour to the remaining oil and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the fried steaks hot, topped with the creamy gravy.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 705Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 122mgSodium 677mgCarbohydrates 62gFiber 2gSugar 12gProtein 50g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Country Fried Steak is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and savory gravy, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether served for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to bring everyone to the table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this delightful Southern classic!
