Name: Country Fried Steak
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs beef round steak; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp black pepper

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Country Fried Steak is a mouthwatering dish that transports you straight to the heart of Southern comfort food. Imagine the crispy coating giving way to tender, juicy meat, all topped with a rich, creamy gravy that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s for dinner before they even cross the threshold.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace from Grandma’s kitchen. I remember my first attempt at making Country Fried Steak: the smoke alarm went off, and I learned that flour can be flung farther than I ever thought possible. But the taste? Oh, it was worth every chaotic moment! Perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or when you simply need some soul-soothing comfort food, this recipe promises an explosion of flavor that’ll keep you coming back for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Country Fried Steak

This incredible Country Fried Steak transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners; you’ll impress friends and family without breaking a sweat.

Flavor Profile: The combination of crispy fried coating and creamy gravy creates an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite.

Visual Appeal: With its golden-brown crust and luscious gravy topping, this dish will be a showstopper on your dinner table.

Versatility: Enjoy it as a hearty dinner or slice it up for sandwiches; it’s delicious no matter how you serve it!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Country Fried Steak:

Beef Round Steak: Choose about 1-1.5 pounds of round steak for tenderness; pound it thinly to ensure even cooking.
All-Purpose Flour: This will create that signature crispy coating; don’t skimp on seasoning!
Buttermilk: Key for marinating the steak; it adds moisture and tenderizes the meat beautifully.
Eggs: These help bind the flour to the steak for that crunchy exterior.
Cooking Oil: Use vegetable oil or lard for frying; they both work wonders at high heat.

For the Gravy:

Chicken Broth: This forms the base of your gravy; low-sodium options are ideal to control salt levels.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to your gravy; trust me, don’t skip this step!
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives just enough kick to balance out the creaminess.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Country Fried Steak:

Step 1: Prepare Your Meat

Start by pounding your beef round steak until it’s about half an inch thick—this helps tenderize it.

Step 2: Marinate

In a bowl, mix buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Submerge your steak in this mixture and let it marinate for at least one hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, place seasoned flour (don’t forget to add salt and pepper!). In another bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy.

Step 4: Bread Your Steaks

Remove steaks from buttermilk marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dip each piece in egg wash first then coat thoroughly with seasoned flour.

Step 5: Fry Away!

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour enough oil to cover the bottom. Once hot (about 350°F), carefully place breaded steaks in the skillet. Fry until golden brown on each side—about three minutes per side should do!

Step 6: Make Your Gravy

Remove cooked steaks from skillet and set aside on paper towels. Pour off excess oil but leave about two tablespoons in the pan. Stir in flour until golden brown then gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream until smooth and thickened.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with gravy for the perfect finishing touch!

Now you have made a delicious Country Fried Steak that not only satisfies cravings but also brings smiles around the table!

You Must Know About Country Fried Steak

This showstopping Country Fried Steak delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by tenderizing the steak with a meat mallet. Season it well before dipping in egg wash and coating it in flour. Sear the steak in hot oil until golden brown, then finish cooking it in the oven for that crispy perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the seasonings for a unique twist. Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even some cayenne for heat. You can also top your Country Fried Steak with a creamy mushroom gravy or serve it alongside sautéed greens.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, bake the steak in the oven at 350°F until heated through; this keeps it crispy rather than soggy.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Country Fried Steak

This professional-quality Country Fried Steak relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Country Fried Steak, my friends devoured it so quickly that they almost started a food fight over the last piece! It’s moments like these that make cooking truly rewarding.

FAQs

What is Country Fried Steak?

Country Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish made from tenderized beef, typically round steak, which is breaded and fried until golden brown. This dish often resembles chicken-fried steak but is distinguished by its rich flavor and crispy texture. Traditionally served with creamy gravy, Country Fried Steak has become a beloved comfort food across the United States. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread, making it a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

How do you make Country Fried Steak?

To make Country Fried Steak, start by tenderizing the beef using a meat mallet. Then, season it with salt and pepper before dipping it in flour, followed by beaten eggs, and finally coating it in seasoned breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a skillet and fry each piece until it’s golden brown on both sides. For the gravy, use the drippings from the pan to create a rich sauce by adding flour and milk. Serve the steak hot with gravy poured over it for an irresistible dish.

What sides go well with Country Fried Steak?

Country Fried Steak pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes topped with more gravy, collard greens seasoned with ham hocks, or buttery corn on the cob. You can also serve it alongside fried okra or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the steak. Cornbread is another great addition that complements this hearty meal perfectly.

Can I make Country Fried Steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Country Fried Steak ahead of time! To do this, cook the steak and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve it, simply reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore its crispy texture. The gravy can also be made ahead and warmed up separately for serving. This makes it easier to enjoy this delicious dish during busy weeknights or gatherings.

Conclusion

In summary, Country Fried Steak is a cherished Southern delicacy that combines tenderized beef with crispy breading and savory gravy. This comforting dish offers versatility in pairings with sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens. Preparing it ahead of time can simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you’re enjoying it on a family gathering or as a weeknight meal, Country Fried Steak remains a delicious choice that satisfies heartily.