Name: Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 cube steaks; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups milk

Golden, crispy, and drenched in velvety smooth gravy, Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy is the ultimate Southern comfort food that satisfies every craving. The crunch of the breaded cube steak contrasts perfectly with the rich and peppery white gravy that pools around every bite. It’s indulgent, hearty, and makes any mealtime feel special.

There’s something deeply nostalgic about this dish. It takes you straight to family dinners or cozy diners off the beaten path. The best part? It’s actually simpler to make than you might think, and you don’t need any fancy ingredients to bring it to life.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak

This recipe checks all the boxes. It’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and blanketed with creamy gravy that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a budget-friendly dinner made from humble ingredients but feels like a treat every single time. You can whip it up quickly on a weeknight or serve it as the star of a weekend comfort feast.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Chicken Fried Steak?

The go-to for this dish is cube steak, which is top round beef that’s been tenderized with a meat mallet, creating those signature indentations. It’s ideal because it cooks fast and turns melt-in-your-mouth tender when fried. If cube steak isn’t available, any tenderized cut of round steak will do the trick.

Ingredients for the Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

This Southern classic comes together with everyday pantry staples. The ingredients below work in harmony to give you that perfect crispy steak and silky gravy.

Cube steak
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Buttermilk
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Milk
Butter

These ingredients play key roles: cube steak is the star, buttermilk and eggs help the coating stick, and flour with cornstarch ensures the crispiest crust. The gravy comes to life with milk, butter, and leftover bits from frying that add incredible depth.

Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy (1)

How To Make the Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

Step 1: Prep the Dredge Station

Whisk flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in one bowl. In another, mix buttermilk and eggs.

Step 2: Dredge and Dip

Coat each cube steak in the flour mixture, then dip in the buttermilk-egg mix, and dredge again in flour. This double-dip ensures that golden, crunchy coating.

Step 3: Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks until crispy and browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Set aside on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Gravy

In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook a minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt and generous pepper.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Pour that luscious gravy over your crispy steak and serve hot.

Serving and Storing Chicken Fried Steak

This recipe makes enough for four hungry folks, or more if you’re serving it with hearty sides. It’s best enjoyed fresh, right after frying when the crust is at its crispiest. But leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results—that helps restore the crunch without drying it out.

What to Serve With Chicken Fried Steak?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make the ultimate base for soaking up all that delicious gravy.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Soft and flaky, they’re the perfect mop for leftover sauce on your plate.

Creamed Corn

The sweetness of creamed corn balances out the savory richness.

Green Beans

A simple veggie side adds freshness and crunch.

Mac and Cheese

Go full-on comfort with a scoop of creamy mac beside your steak.

Fried Okra

Another Southern staple, its crispy bite is just what this meal needs.

Coleslaw

A tangy slaw can cut through the richness and refresh your palate.

Cajun Potato Soup

For an extra comforting meal, start with a bowl of Cajun Potato Soup.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you loved this crispy and creamy dish, you might want to try these comforting meals next:

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a Tex-Mex twist on pasta.
Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad that brings nostalgic flavors to the table.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a warm, one-skillet wonder.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes if you’re craving crispy chicken with a side of cozy.
Creamy Cajun Linguine when you’re in the mood for bold, creamy pasta.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime that craving for Southern comfort hits.

And if you give it a try, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out. Did you add cayenne to the gravy for a spicy kick? Did you serve it with biscuits or mac and cheese?

I love hearing how these recipes get adapted in your kitchens. Questions are always welcome—let’s share tips and make every dish better together.

Explore beautifully curated comfort recipes and health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy is all about simple ingredients turning into something unforgettable. With a crispy, well-seasoned crust and a dreamy gravy to pour over everything, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, the comfort it brings to the table is always fresh.