Craving that crispy, juicy country fried steak you love from Cracker Barrel? Forget the drive and the wait! This recipe brings the classic comfort food right to your kitchen. It’s easier than you think to make this delicious dish, a perfect example of hearty, homemade cooking that’s surprisingly quick to prepare. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. This recipe is packed with flavor and delivers a restaurant-quality experience without the restaurant price tag. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs cube steak, about 1 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (or a combination for best flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Gently pound the cube steak to about ¼ inch thickness using a meat mallet. This helps to tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking. Aim for an even thickness to prevent some parts from being overcooked while others remain tough.
Step 2: Create the Breading Station
- Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second, place the beaten eggs mixed with milk. In the third, put the breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Steak
- Dredge each piece of steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Next, dip the floured steak into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat the steak completely in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
- Heat the oil (or butter/oil combination) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot skillet, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Don't rush this step; proper browning is key to achieving that perfect Cracker Barrel texture.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Once cooked through, remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This step helps maintain the crispiness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, and green beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Country Fried Steak:
- For extra crispy results, let the breaded steaks rest for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking. This allows the breading to set.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of your steaks and the heat of your stove. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Country Fried Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a kick.
- Herb-Crusted Country Fried Steak: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (depending on oil used and serving size)
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It's always a good idea to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis if needed. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying homemade country fried steak! This recipe is a simple yet impressive addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Enjoy!