How to Make Beef Fried Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Beef fried steak is a classic comfort food that combines crispy, golden-brown breading with tender, flavorful beef. This Southern staple is often confused with chicken fried steak, but while similar, beef fried steak focuses more on the meat’s texture and seasoning rather than a heavy, thick breading. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple, delicious, and satisfying. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the perfect beef fried steak with a crispy crust and juicy interior.

Ingredients Needed

For the Steak:

• 4 beef steaks (sirloin, cube steak, or round steak)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for crispiness)

For the Egg Wash:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk

For Frying:

• 2 cups vegetable oil (or peanut oil)

Optional Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons leftover drippings from frying
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparing the Steak

1. Choose the Right Cut:
   • Cube steak is the most popular choice since it is pre-tenderized and absorbs seasoning well.
   • If using sirloin or round steak, use a meat mallet to pound it thin, about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Seasoning the Meat:
   • Generously season both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
   • Let the steak rest for about 10 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

Breading Process

1. Prepare the Flour Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and baking powder.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk (or buttermilk) until smooth.
3. Coating the Steak:
   • Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely.
   • Dip the steak into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off.
   • Coat the steak again in the flour mixture, pressing down gently to create an even crust.
   • Place the coated steaks on a wire rack and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better during frying.

Frying the Steak

1. Heating the Oil:
   • Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or cast-iron pan, filling it about 1/2 inch deep.
   • Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
2. Cooking the Steak:
   • Carefully place the coated steaks into the hot oil.
   • Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the coating soggy.
3. Draining Excess Oil:
   • Remove the steaks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
   • Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to retain crispiness.

Making the Optional Gravy

1. Using Leftover Drippings:
   • In the same pan, remove most of the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings.
2. Making the Roux:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the pan and stir continuously over medium heat until it turns light brown.
3. Adding Milk:
   • Slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Continue stirring until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).
4. Seasoning:
   • Add salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Serve the gravy over the fried steak or on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or sautéed vegetables.
• Dipping Options: If not using gravy, serve with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce.
• Bread Choices: Pair with cornbread or dinner rolls for a complete Southern-style meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Best Cuts of Beef: Cube steak is ideal, but sirloin or round steak can also work if properly tenderized.
• Extra Crispy Coating: Let the breaded steak rest before frying, and use cornstarch in the flour mixture.
• Avoiding a Soggy Crust: Fry in hot oil at the right temperature, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Healthier Alternative: Instead of deep frying, you can bake the breaded steak in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Conclusion

Beef fried steak is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether served with creamy gravy or on its own, it’s a meal that’s sure to be a hit. With the right cut of beef, perfect seasoning, and a crispy coating, you can recreate this Southern favorite at home. Try it today, and enjoy a homemade beef fried steak that’s as good as any restaurant version.