Chicken Fried Steak (Print view)

Crispy breaded beef steaks with savory white gravy

# Ingredient List:

→ For the Steak

01 - 4 beef cube steaks (about 5–6 oz each)
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup whole milk
05 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ For the Creamy White Gravy

13 - 3 tablespoons pan drippings (from frying) or unsalted butter
14 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
15 - 2 cups whole milk
16 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ For the Garnish

17 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: first with flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper; second with beaten eggs and 1/2 cup milk; third with breadcrumbs.
03 - Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
04 - Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high.
05 - Fry the steaks in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and keep warm.
06 - Pour off all but 3 tablespoons of oil from the skillet. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute over medium heat.
07 - Gradually whisk in the milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook, whisking constantly, until thickened (3–5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
08 - Serve the fried steaks hot, topped with creamy gravy and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The crust stays impossibly crispy while the meat inside turns tender enough to cut with a fork
  • That white gravy transforms the whole plate into something that feels like a hug from someone who loves you
02 -
  • Letting the breaded steaks rest for 10 minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better
  • Hot oil is crucial, test it with a pinch of flour, it should sizzle immediately
03 -
  • Let your oil come back to temperature between batches for consistent results
  • A cast iron skillet holds heat beautifully and gives the best crust
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