Sizzling in the pan, the sound of golden brown cube steaks frying evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Pepper Gravy is a true Southern classic that warms not just the belly but the heart. Tender and juicy on the inside, these steaks are encased in a perfectly crispy coating, creating a satisfyingly crunchy contrast. The best part? Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also brings a crowd-pleasing comfort to your table, making it ideal for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat. Fancy a twist? You can easily personalize the creamy gravy with your favorite spices or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick! What will you add to make this dish your own?
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: The combination of juicy cube steaks and creamy pepper gravy delivers a taste experience that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Simplicity: With a straightforward frying technique, even novice cooks can master this dish effortlessly.
Versatile Twists: Feel free to experiment with your gravy by adding spices or fresh herbs; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish brings the family together, making it perfect for gatherings or easy weeknight dinners.
Quick Preparation: Whip up a fantastic meal in under an hour—ideal for those evenings when time is tight.
Once you’ve enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my Chicken Alfredo Tater Tot Casserole or the savory Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich!
Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Ingredients
For the Steaks
- Cube Steaks – Tender cuts of beef that are the heart of this dish, ensuring a juicy texture.
- Buttermilk – This ingredient adds moisture and helps tenderize the steaks; you can substitute it with sour cream or yogurt if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the crunchy exterior when frying; you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper, paprika) – These enhance the flavor profile; feel free to adjust them based on your taste preferences.
- Oil (for frying) – A high-heat oil like vegetable or canola is ideal for achieving that perfect crispy finish.
For the Gravy
- Cream – This creates a luxurious, creamy base for the gravy; half-and-half or dairy-free cream can be excellent substitutes.
- Black Pepper – Essential for that signature peppery flavor in your gravy, adjust the amount according to your preferred heat level.
With these ingredients, you’ll craft a delightful Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak that’s perfect for comforting family meals or impressing guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
Step 1: Marinate Steaks
Start by soaking your cube steaks in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or better yet, overnight in the fridge. This crucial step ensures that the steaks remain tender and juicy, while the buttermilk penetrates the meat’s fibers with flavor. When ready, lift the steaks out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with your chosen seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk them together until evenly mixed. When your cube steaks are marinated, dredge each one in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess flour to ensure a consistent coating. This will provide that crunchy texture that defines your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.
Step 3: Heat Oil
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this usually takes about 5 minutes. It’s important not to let the oil smoke, as this can lead to unwanted flavors. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small bit of flour into the pan; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry Steaks
Carefully add the coated cube steaks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each steak for about 4-5 minutes on one side, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Flip the steaks gently and allow them to fry another 4-5 minutes on the opposite side. Aim for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy, signaling perfect Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.
Step 5: Make Gravy
Once the steaks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. In the same pan, whisk in additional flour using the leftover drippings to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. Don’t forget to season with black pepper to taste!
Step 6: Serve
To serve this delightful dish, place the fried steaks on warm plates and generously ladle the creamy pepper gravy over the top. This finishing touch elevates your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak, making it irresistible. Pair with your favorite side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed greens for the ultimate Southern comfort meal!
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize this recipe to suit your taste!
-
Pork Alternative: Swap cube steaks for pork chops for a delightful twist; they too will absorb the buttermilk beautifully.
-
Chicken Version: Use chicken breast fillets instead of steak for a lighter version; it’ll also stay juicy with that buttermilk soak.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs; just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for the best results.
-
Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick; it brightens up the flavor without overwhelming it.
-
Creamy Lemon Gravy: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the gravy for a tangy contrast to the richness; this citrus note can elevate the dish wonderfully!
-
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour before breading; the herbs will infuse each bite with aromatic goodness.
-
Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, into your gravy for a decadent twist; it’s comfort food taken up a notch!
-
Extra Crunch: Add crushed cornflakes or panko to the breading mix for an extra crispy texture without compromising on flavor.
Once you’ve savored this recipe, don’t forget to check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another delicious family favorite!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to retain crispiness, ensuring the steaks are heated through without becoming soggy.
Avoiding Sogginess: Let cooked steaks cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess in the storage container.
Expert Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
-
Marination Time: Allow the steaks to marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect tenderness.
-
Oil Temperature: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding the steaks. If it’s too cool, your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak could turn out greasy.
-
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the steaks in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, less crispy chicken.
-
Gravy Consistency: For a thicker gravy, let the roux cook slightly longer before adding the cream. Continuously stir to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
-
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings, especially the black pepper, for that perfect flavor profile that suits your palate.
-
Serving Hot: Serve your dish immediately after preparation to keep that crispy exterior intact and enhance the overall enjoyment of your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.
What to Serve with Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak
Indulge in a comforting dining experience that pairs perfectly with your tender, crispy delight.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the crispy steak and absorbs the luscious gravy beautifully, creating a blissful bite.
-
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft and buttery biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy, enhancing the Southern charm of your meal.
-
Garlicky Green Beans: These vibrant beans add a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the steak and gravy while bringing a pop of color to your plate.
-
Tangy Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty flavors, making each mouthful a delightful adventure.
-
Savory Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is an excellent sidekick, evoking memories of Southern kitchens and evoking warmth with every bite.
-
Sweet Peach Tea: A chilled glass of this classic beverage enhances the comfort of your meal, refreshing your palate between bites of the crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm, gooey cookies add a sweet finish to your meal, ensuring the comforting experience lingers on.
Make Ahead Options
Planning your meal can be a breeze with Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak! You can marinate the cube steaks in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, which tenderizes the meat beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the seasoned flour coating ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the quality intact, ensure the coated steaks are kept in a single layer with parchment paper between them if you stack them when refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply fry the prepped steaks and make the gravy using the same swift steps for a comforting Southern meal with minimal effort!
Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cube steaks for my Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak?
Absolutely! Look for cube steaks that are evenly colored and free of dark spots or excessive tough fibers. Quality cuts ensure that your finished dish is tender and full of flavor. If possible, opt for grass-fed beef as it often has a richer taste.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your leftover Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can make your steak soggy.
Can I freeze my chicken fried steak?
Very much so! To freeze your cooked steaks, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for an hour. Then, transfer the steaks to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
What if my gravy is too thick or lumpy?
No worries! If your gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a bit of additional cream or milk gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s lumpy, you can transfer the gravy to a blender and pulse until silky smooth. Always taste and adjust the seasoning afterward!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many options exist, like almond or rice flour, which can still achieve that crispy coating you love. Just make sure to check your oil for cross-contamination.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have allergies, ensure that everyone eating knows about the presence of wheat in the flour and possible dairy in the buttermilk and cream. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using lactose-free cream or make a vegan version with plant-based alternatives!
Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by soaking your cube steaks in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or better yet, overnight in the fridge.
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with your chosen seasonings. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully add the coated cube steaks to the hot oil and fry each steak for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
- Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, whisk in additional flour using the leftover drippings.
- To serve, place the fried steaks on warm plates and generously ladle the creamy pepper gravy over the top.
Leave a Reply