If you’re craving a comforting, soul-satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug from the South, you’ve got to try this Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe. It’s a fantastic blend of crispy, golden-brown breaded steak paired with a luscious, velvety gravy that brings every bite to life. Whether you’re cooking for family or surprising friends, this dish delivers that hearty, home-cooked classic taste that everyone remembers fondly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but absolutely essential to achieving that perfect balance of crispy texture and rich flavor. Every component plays a starring role—whether it’s the buttermilk tenderizing the steak or the heavy cream creating the dreamy gravy.
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak: Choose a tender cut that will become wonderfully soft when pounded and fried.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides a crispy coating and thickens the gravy beautifully.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the steak and adds a subtle tang.
- 2 large eggs: Helps the flour mixture stick to the steak perfectly.
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying): Ensures your steak crisps up without burning.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the creamy gravy.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the gravy.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the beef wonderfully.
How to Make Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Tenderize the Steak
Start by pounding your beef round steak until it’s about half an inch thick. This step is crucial because it softens the meat, making every bite tender and easy to chew. Plus, it helps the coating stick better during frying.
Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk
Pop your steak into a bowl with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and some pepper. Let it soak for at least an hour. The acidity in the buttermilk works magic breaking down the tough fibers for a tender, flavorful result.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up two bowls—one with seasoned flour and the other with whisked eggs. This two-step coating process ensures a perfect, crispy outer layer that holds up beautifully once fried.
Step 4: Coat the Steak
Dip the marinated steak first into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off, and then generously coat it in the seasoned flour. Don’t be shy with the flour; this crust is the signature crunch of the dish!
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and hot. Fry each steak for about three minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust that’s both crispy and inviting.
Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Gravy
Don’t toss out the leftover oil after frying! Stir in some flour and cook until it turns golden, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Cook it patiently until it thickens to a silky, luscious gravy that’s impossible to resist.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Plate the hot, crispy country fried steak and ladle the creamy gravy on top generously. This is where everything comes together, creating a perfect harmony between crunchy and creamy.
How to Serve Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens each flavorful bite without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like buttery mashed potatoes soak up the creamy gravy perfectly, while green beans or roasted vegetables offer a satisfying crunch and balance the richness of the steak.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the steak into strips over a bed of fluffy rice or even atop creamy grits. You can also serve it with a fried egg on top for an indulgent brunch variation that feels special yet comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover country fried steak and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors again with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, place the steak and gravy in separate freezer-safe containers. They freeze well for up to two months, allowing you to have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat the steak in the oven to keep the crust crispy, and warm the gravy gently on the stovetop, stirring often. Combining them when hot keeps everything perfectly tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef round steak works great for its tenderness after pounding, other cuts like sirloin or cube steak can also be used, just adjust the pounding time to ensure tenderness.
Is there a way to make the gravy without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter gravy. It won’t be as rich but will still complement the steak nicely.
Can I bake the steak instead of frying?
While frying gives that signature crispy crust, baking is a healthier alternative. For best results, bake at high heat on a wire rack to help the coating crisp up.
How long should I marinate the steak in buttermilk?
Marinating for at least one hour is ideal. If you have more time, up to overnight will further tenderize the meat and boost flavor, but anything beyond that is optional.
What sides are traditional with Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe?
Mashed potatoes, fried okra, creamy coleslaw, and green beans are classic Southern sides that complement the richness of the steak and gravy perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your belly with pure comfort. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet special enough to impress guests. Once you make it, you’ll understand why this Southern classic remains a beloved favorite—give it a try and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Country Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tenderized beef round steak, breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown, then topped with a rich and creamy gravy made from pan drippings, chicken broth, and heavy cream. This hearty meal is perfect for a satisfying family dinner and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or green beans.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak
Breading and Marinade
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Cooking
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Gravy
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Tenderize the Steak: Pound the beef round steak to about half an inch thickness to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
- Marinate: Soak the tenderized steak in a mixture of buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper for at least one hour. This helps to tenderize the meat further and adds flavor.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up two bowls; one with seasoned all-purpose flour mixed with black pepper, and another with whisked eggs.
- Bread the Steak: Dip each marinated steak first into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated, then dredge in the seasoned flour until thoroughly covered.
- Fry the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Fry each steak for approximately three minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Gravy: Using the leftover oil and flour in the skillet, stir to form a roux until golden. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the gravy thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Plate the fried steaks while hot, and generously spoon the creamy gravy over the top. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, marinate the steak overnight in the buttermilk mixture.
- Use a splatter guard to avoid hot oil splattering during frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
- The leftover oil and flour from frying are perfect for making the gravy to capture all the flavors.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple side salad.
