If you’re in the mood for soul-soothing comfort food, this Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak recipe will have you covered! Tender cube steak marinated in buttermilk adds amazing flavor and moisture, while the crispy coating pairs perfectly with a rich, creamy gravy. This classic Southern dish makes for a hearty meal that brings family and friends together around the dinner table.
Budget Information
The total cost for this Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak recipe comes to approximately $16.00. Given that this dish serves 4, that’s just about $4.00 per serving—an incredible value for a meal that feels indulgent!
Why This Recipe Works
This Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a beloved classic, and there’s a good reason for that. Utilizing buttermilk tenderizes the steak, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. The crispy, seasoned coating along with a smooth, creamy gravy takes this dish over the top, making it feel like a warm hug from your grandma. Plus, it’s easy to make, yet impressively delicious—perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Southern staple:
- 4 cube steaks (approx. 1 lb total) – $8.00
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – $0.50
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (divided) – $0.10
- 2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt (divided) – $0.05
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – $0.15
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – $0.10
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – $0.10
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – $0.05
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – $0.05
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk – $1.50
- 2 teaspoons TABASCO® Sauce – $0.30
- 2 large eggs – $0.50
- Vegetable oil for frying (approx. 1 cup) – $1.00
You can also customize this recipe by using different cuts of meat, like round steak or even pork chops, if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin your culinary adventure by prepping the cube steaks. Take each steak and pound them to about ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This tenderizes them and helps the seasoning penetrate. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper. The goal here is to ensure that flavor seeps in and makes each bite blissful!
Step 2: Now, let’s create the flavorful coating. In one bowl, combine the flour, remaining black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, baking soda, and baking powder. These aromatic spices are what give the crust that irresistible kick! In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and TABASCO® Sauce. This mixture will create a beautifully moist environment for your steak.
Step 3: It’s dredging time! Take each seasoned steak and coat it in the flour mixture first. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing it to soak up that richness, and then back into the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dredge technique will give you the crunch you crave!
Step 4: Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want about a quarter-inch of oil—enough to fry the steaks beautifully. Once the oil reaches around 375°F, carefully place your coated steaks into the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy—this is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will ensure that your crispy coating stays crunchy and doesn’t get soggy.
Step 6: Now, it’s gravy time! In the same skillet, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons (just enough for flavor). Sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour and whisk over medium heat until it turns golden brown. This roux is the base of your creamy gravy.
Step 7: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring constantly until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Finally, season with salt, black pepper, and perhaps a dash of garlic powder or thyme to enhance that comforting flavor profile.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for one serving of Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak:
- Calories: 880
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Total Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1300mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
After you’ve devoured this delicious meal, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store, simply place the leftover steak in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, I recommend warming it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes—this will help maintain that glorious crunch. If you have any gravy left over, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring to prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak is loaded with flavor and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes topped with that luscious gravy—absolute heaven! You can also add some sautéed collard greens for a bit of bitter contrast, plus some fluffy Southern biscuits to soak up any leftover gravy. Feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies on the side for a refreshing touch!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
When making this dish, don’t rush the marinating process—allow the steaks to soak in that buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if time permits. It makes a world of difference in tenderness! And don’t forget to adjust the level of spices according to your family’s taste. Making this dish your own is what cooking is all about!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While cube steak is traditional, round steak, pork chops, or even chicken can work well too.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? You can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes—voilà, buttermilk!
How do I ensure my chicken fried steak stays crispy? Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the steaks, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and minimal steam.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze cooked steaks for up to 4 months. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn!
How spicy is this dish? The amount of spiciness largely depends on the TABASCO® Sauce you use. Feel free to adjust the quantity to match your spice tolerance!
