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Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by making the mashed potatoes, as they take the longest to prepare.
- Place the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the chicken-fried steak.
2. Prepare the Steak
While the potatoes are cooking, it’s time to prep the chicken-fried steak.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This will be your breading mixture.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.
- Dip each cube steak into the flour mixture, making sure both sides are coated. Then dip the steak into the egg mixture, followed by a second coat of the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks. This double coating will give your steak that crispy, golden crust.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place the breaded steaks into the pan.
- Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to fry the steaks in batches. Remove the steaks and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
3. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet used to fry the steaks, keep about 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the pan (you can discard excess oil). Over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of flour to the drippings and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out.
- Once the gravy is ready, pour it over the crispy chicken-fried steaks.
4. Serve the Dish
Plate the chicken-fried steak alongside a generous serving of the creamy mashed potatoes. Spoon some of the rich, savory gravy over both the steak and potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Why You’ll Love Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
- Crispy and Tender: The breading on the steak creates a satisfying crunch, while the meat inside stays tender and juicy, making each bite irresistible.
- Rich Gravy: The homemade gravy is a perfect companion to both the steak and potatoes, bringing a savory richness that ties the whole dish together.
- Classic Comfort: This is the epitome of comfort food—filling, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect meal for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
- Versatile: While this dish is perfect as a main course, it can be served with various sides like green beans, cornbread, or fried okra for a complete Southern meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken-Fried Steak
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: The buttermilk not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the steak, giving you that perfect, juicy texture.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, it’s the ideal tool for frying chicken-fried steak. It retains heat well and ensures an even cook, creating that perfect golden crust.
- Adjust the Gravy Consistency: If you prefer a thinner gravy, add more milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. For a thicker gravy, let it cook a little longer.
- Keep the Fried Steaks Warm: If you’re making several steaks, you can keep them warm in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F) while you finish frying the rest.
Conclusion
Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy is a true Southern comfort dish that combines crispy, golden steak with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy. It’s the perfect meal for satisfying your hunger and bringing a sense of warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a Sunday afternoon with family or sharing it with friends at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in one of the most beloved comfort foods of all time!
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