🤠 Southern-Style Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
Craving the crispy, golden comfort of Texas Roadhouse-style chicken fried steak—without the price tag? This homemade version hits all the right notes. Made with affordable cube steak, a cracker-based breading, and a rich, creamy gravy, this dish brings hearty Southern flavor straight to your own kitchen.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality satisfaction using pantry staples and simple steps.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Dish
This down-home classic rivals anything you’ll find at a steakhouse—but with more flexibility and a whole lot more comfort. Cube steak keeps it budget-friendly, while crushed crackers and seasoned flour create a crispy, flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with a creamy homemade gravy.
Want the full Southern experience? Serve over mashed potatoes with green beans or corn on the cob and enjoy a plate full of savory satisfaction.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- Cube steak – Budget-friendly and pre-tenderized, perfect for this recipe
- Oil – Olive or vegetable oil both work well for frying
- Flour – All-purpose flour for dredging and thickening the gravy
- Saltine crackers – Crushed finely to create a perfectly crunchy coating
- Salt & black pepper – Simple seasoning to build on
- Buttermilk – Helps the breading stick and adds flavor
- Butter – Gives the gravy its silky texture
- Milk – Keeps the gravy smooth and pourable
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Prepare the Breading
- Crush the saltine crackers into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or heavy object.
- Mix cracker crumbs with flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
🔹 Bread the Steaks
- Coat cube steak in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Dip the floured steak into buttermilk.
- Return steak to the flour mixture for a second coating.
🔹 Fry the Steaks
- In a heavy-bottom skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Fry each steak for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to cool and drain.
🔹 Make the Gravy
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour until a smooth paste forms, about 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Oil should come halfway up the steak—not fully submerged.
- Add extra spices like garlic powder, cayenne, or onion powder to the flour mix.
- No buttermilk? Make your own with milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Use cast iron or another heavy-bottom skillet for best results.
- For a spicy twist, mix a bit of hot sauce into the buttermilk.
- Serve it for brunch with eggs and hash browns for a hearty morning meal.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed for even frying.
