¼ cup pan drippings (from frying steak)
¼ cup flour
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1 tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
½ tsp salt
For the Mashed Potatoes:
2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & cubed
½ cup butter
½ cup warm milk or heavy cream
Salt & pepper to taste
(Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
In another dish, whisk eggs and buttermilk.
Dredge each steak in flour → egg mixture → flour again, pressing to adhere.
2. Fry the Steak
Heat ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
Fry steaks 3-4 mins per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on a wire rack.
3. Make the Gravy
Pour off all but ¼ cup of oil from the skillet.
Whisk in flour and cook 1 min.
Gradually whisk in milk, scraping up browned bits.
Simmer until thickened (~5 mins), then season with salt & pepper.
4. Cook the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes until tender (~15 mins). Drain.
Mash with butter, warm milk, salt & pepper until creamy.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Place steak on mashed potatoes, smother with gravy, and garnish with parsley.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken-Fried Steak
🔹 Use cube steak – Already tenderized for perfect texture.
🔹 Keep oil hot – Prevents greasy crust.
🔹 Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches if needed.
🔹 Extra crispy? Double-dip in flour/egg mixture.
Variations & Swaps
🍗 Chicken version – Use boneless chicken breasts (pounded thin).
🌶 Spicy gravy – Add hot sauce or extra cayenne.
🧀 Cheesy mashed potatoes – Stir in cheddar or Parmesan.
🥬 Lighter option – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 mins instead of frying.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes! Use round steak, pounded thin.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in the fridge for 3 days (reheat in oven for crispiness).
Q: Can I make gravy ahead?
A: Yes! Reheat with a splash of milk to loosen.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy is comfort food at its finest—crispy, creamy, and utterly satisfying. One bite and you’ll be hooked!