Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
Homemade Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tender cube steak soaked in tangy buttermilk, coated in a flavorful seasoned flour crust, and topped with rich, creamy country gravy. This hearty recipe offers the perfect combination of crispy texture and smooth gravy, ideal for family meals or nostalgic indulgence.
- Prep Time: 1 hour (plus optional overnight soak)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Contains Gluten, Dairy, and Eggs
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Coating
- 4 cube steaks (tenderized beef)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Country Gravy
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Sausage drippings (optional, for extra savory flavor)
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: Soak cube steaks in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to tenderize the meat and add tangy flavor.
- Prepare the Flour Coating: In a shallow dish, mix flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a well-seasoned, crunchy coating.
- Dredge the Steak: Remove steaks from buttermilk, dip each into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even crust on both sides.
- Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat to about 350°F. Fry steaks for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Country Gravy: Using the same skillet drippings, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while stirring constantly until gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add sausage drippings for a richer flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour warm country gravy generously over the crispy steaks and serve immediately for the ultimate comforting meal.
Notes
- Use cube steak for its tender texture that absorbs buttermilk well and crisps when fried.
- Soaking in buttermilk is crucial for tenderizing and enhancing flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature near 350°F to achieve crispy crust without greasy results.
- Prepare gravy in the same pan using leftover drippings to build maximum flavor.
- Serve hot immediately since the crust softens quickly after frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Chicken fried steak, buttermilk, country gravy, Southern comfort food, crispy coating, cube steak