Here’s a classic, authentic Southern Country Fried Steak with Cream Gravy recipe — crispy, tender cube steak smothered in rich peppered cream gravy. Comfort food at its finest!
🥩 Country Fried Steak with Cream Gravy
⭐ Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Steaks
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4 cube steaks (or tenderized round steaks)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Cream Gravy
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3 tablespoons leftover pan drippings
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3 tablespoons flour
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2–2½ cups milk
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Salt & LOTS of black pepper to taste
🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the coatings
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In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
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In another bowl, whisk eggs + milk.
2. Dredge the steaks
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Pat cube steaks dry.
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Dredge in flour mixture → shake off excess.
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Dip into egg mixture.
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Dredge again in the flour mixture (this double coating creates the crispy crust).
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Let rest 10 minutes so the coating adheres.
3. Fry the steaks
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Heat 1/2 inch oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry steaks 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Place on paper towels or a rack to drain.
4. Make the cream gravy
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Pour off excess oil but leave 3 tbsp drippings in the skillet.
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Add 3 tbsp flour and whisk to form a roux; cook 1–2 minutes.
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Slowly whisk in milk until gravy thickens (2–4 minutes).
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Season generously with salt and lots of black pepper.
5. Serve
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Pour the hot cream gravy over the crispy fried steaks.
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Serve with mashed potatoes, biscuits, corn, or green beans.
✨ Tips for Perfect Country Fried Steak
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Cube steak works best because it’s pre-tenderized.
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Cornstarch makes the crust extra crispy, but you can use all flour.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan — the coating will fall off and get soggy.
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If gravy gets too thick, whisk in a splash more milk.
If you’d like, I can also give you:
🥘 Oven-baked version
🍗 Chicken-fried chicken
🍛 Cajun-style cream gravy