Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

### Directions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Start by seasoning the **cube steaks** with **salt** and **black pepper** on both sides. Cube steaks are naturally tenderized, but if you’re using another cut of beef, you may want to tenderize the meat further by using a meat mallet or purchasing already tenderized steaks. Once seasoned, set the steaks aside while you prepare the dredging station.

#### Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
In a shallow dish, combine the **flour**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, and **paprika**. Mix well. In another shallow dish, whisk together the **eggs** and **buttermilk** until smooth. The buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps the coating adhere to the meat. This step is key to getting the crispy crust.

#### Step 3: Dredge the Steaks
Dip each seasoned steak into the **flour mixture**, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Then, dip the steak into the **buttermilk mixture**, ensuring it’s completely covered. Finally, dredge the steak back into the **flour mixture** for a second coat, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat this process with all of the steaks.

#### Step 4: Fry the Steaks
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about **1/2 cup of vegetable oil** over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil – if it sizzles, it’s ready), add the breaded steaks to the skillet. Fry each steak for about **3-4 minutes per side**, or until golden brown and crispy. The steaks should be cooked through and crispy on the outside, but still juicy on the inside.

Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### Step 5: Make the Gravy
For the **gravy**, discard excess oil from the skillet, leaving about **2 tablespoons** behind to use for the gravy. Over medium heat, add **2 tablespoons of flour** to the skillet, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook the flour for about **1-2 minutes** to eliminate the raw taste, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn.

Gradually add **2 cups of whole milk** to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture for **3-5 minutes**, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with **salt**, **black pepper**, and optional **garlic powder** and **cayenne pepper** for extra flavor and a slight kick.

#### Step 6: Serve
Once the gravy has thickened, pour it generously over the fried steaks. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread, to soak up the delicious gravy.

### Why You’ll Love Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

There’s so much to love about **Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy**, and it’s not just the crispy, golden steak or the creamy gravy. Here’s why this Southern classic is such a hit:

– **Crispy & Tender**: The breading on the steak provides the perfect crunchy exterior, while the meat remains tender and juicy on the inside. It’s the ideal combination of textures.
– **Rich & Creamy Gravy**: The creamy, savory gravy is the perfect complement to the fried steak. It’s rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning and thickness to coat the meat and soak into the side dishes.
– **Comfort Food at Its Best**: There’s a reason this dish is a Southern favorite—it’s the epitome of comfort food. It’s hearty, filling, and incredibly satisfying.
– **Customizable**: While the classic version of this dish is amazing on its own, it’s also easy to make variations. You can add a bit of heat with cayenne pepper in the gravy, or even add some sautéed mushrooms or onions to the gravy for extra flavor.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a special occasion, **Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy** is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress guests or loved ones.

### Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

– **Use Buttermilk**: Buttermilk helps the breading adhere to the steak and also tenderizes the meat. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding **1 tablespoon of vinegar** to **1 cup of milk** and letting it sit for about **5 minutes**.
– **Use a Cast-Iron Skillet**: A cast-iron skillet helps achieve the perfect crispy crust. It also distributes heat evenly, so your steaks will cook evenly and brown perfectly.
– **Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature**: Be sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks. If it’s too cool, the breading will become soggy. If it’s too hot, the breading might burn before the steak cooks through. Aim for a medium-high heat.
– **Make Extra Gravy**: Let’s face it—gravy is one of the best parts of this dish! If you’re serving a crowd, don’t be afraid to make extra gravy to pour on the steak, potatoes, or any other sides you’re serving.

### Conclusion

**Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy** is the perfect comfort food that brings together crispy, tender steak and a rich, creamy gravy in a way that can’t be beat. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to the table and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a special meal for friends, this Southern classic is sure to impress.

So, next time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor, look no further than **Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy**. It’s comfort food at its finest!