Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Introduction
Few dishes embody Southern comfort quite like Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy. Crispy, golden steak paired with fluffy mashed potatoes and topped with creamy, peppery gravy—it’s the definition of stick-to-your-ribs goodness. This dish is a classic for a reason: it brings warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence to the dinner table.
Though its name can be misleading, chicken-fried steak isn’t chicken at all—it’s tenderized beef steak coated in a seasoned flour mixture, fried until crisp, and served with hearty sides. The “chicken-fried” part of the name comes from the cooking technique, which is similar to frying chicken. Pair it with rich mashed potatoes and smother it in homemade gravy, and you’ve got a plate of pure comfort food.
In this article, we’ll explore why this dish works so well, the ingredients you’ll need, the step-by-step process to bring it to life, and expert tips to ensure your Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy comes out perfect every single time.
Why This Recipe Works
There’s a reason Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy has stood the test of time—it’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying. Here’s why this recipe shines:
The Coating Technique
By dipping the steak into seasoned flour, then into a buttermilk-egg mixture, and finally back into the flour, you create a double layer of breading that turns crisp and golden when fried. This creates a texture similar to fried chicken, giving the steak that irresistible crunch.
Tenderized Steak
Using cube steak or pounding your steak with a mallet ensures it’s tender enough to cut with a fork. The coating seals in the juices, so the inside stays moist while the outside crisps up beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes
Nothing complements fried steak like buttery mashed potatoes. Fluffy and creamy, they serve as the perfect base to soak up all that delicious gravy.
Peppery Gravy
The gravy ties everything together. Made from pan drippings and seasoned with black pepper, it balances the richness of the fried steak and the creaminess of the potatoes.
Comfort Food Factor
This dish isn’t just about taste—it’s about experience. When you sit down to a plate of Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, you feel a sense of home, tradition, and indulgence.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
To make Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken-Fried Steak
4 cube steaks (or round steaks, tenderized)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
Vegetable oil (for frying, about ½ inch deep)
For the Mashed Potatoes
2 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work best)
½ cup milk (warm)
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gravy
¼ cup pan drippings (from frying)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2–3 cups milk (depending on desired consistency)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create one of the most beloved comfort meals: Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy.
How To Make Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together until smooth.
Step 2: Bread the Steaks
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels.
Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip it in the buttermilk mixture, and finally dredge it back in the flour mixture.
Press the flour into the steak to ensure a thick, even coating.
Step 3: Fry the Steaks
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, carefully add the coated steaks.
Fry each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into chunks.
Boil in salted water for 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
Drain, then mash with butter and warm milk until smooth and fluffy.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
Pour off most of the frying oil, leaving about ¼ cup of drippings in the skillet.
Whisk in ¼ cup flour to make a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.
Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and creamy.
Simmer until thickened, stirring constantly.
Season generously with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper.
Step 6: Assemble the Plate
Place a serving of mashed potatoes on each plate.
Top with a crispy steak.
Generously spoon gravy over both.
Congratulations—you’ve just created a plate of Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy that rivals any Southern diner.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
Use Cube Steak – It’s already tenderized and perfect for frying.
Season the Flour Well – The coating is where much of the flavor comes from.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry steaks in batches to maintain oil temperature.
Drain on Paper Towels – Keeps the coating crisp.
Use Warm Milk for Potatoes – Prevents gumminess and makes them smoother.
Pepper is Key for Gravy – Don’t skimp; the gravy should be peppery and bold.
Control Gravy Thickness – Add more milk for thinner gravy, or simmer longer for thicker.
Serve Immediately – The coating stays crispest right after frying.
These tips ensure that your Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy comes out restaurant-quality every time.
How to Serve
Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy is best served hot, with plenty of gravy poured over the steak and potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. Some enjoy it with a side of green beans or buttered corn for added color and balance.
For a true Southern experience, serve it family-style, letting everyone dig into heaping platters of steak, potatoes, and gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some side dishes that pair beautifully with Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy:
Southern Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
Collard Greens – Adds a nutritious and flavorful side.
Cornbread – Another Southern classic that complements the rich flavors.
Pickles or Coleslaw – Provide acidity and crunch to cut through the richness.
Sweet Tea – No Southern meal is complete without it.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
In under an hour, you can enjoy homemade Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, making it a great choice for Sunday dinners or special family meals.
Final Thoughts
When you’re craving a hearty, comforting, and unforgettable meal, look no further than Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy. This dish delivers crispy, golden steak, smooth and buttery mashed potatoes, and creamy, peppery gravy that ties everything together. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and perfect for when you want to treat yourself or your family to a true comfort food classic.
By following the steps and tips above, you can master this timeless recipe at home. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or the star of a Sunday feast, Chicken-Fried Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy will always bring smiles to the table.