Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak Recipe: Crispy, Tender, and Delicious

Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak is the epitome of Southern comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of crispy breading, tender beef, and a rich, creamy gravy.

It’s a dish that has become synonymous with hearty meals and family gatherings, often served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and warm biscuits.

This recipe brings all the familiar flavors of Cracker Barrel straight to your kitchen, so you can enjoy this comforting classic at home.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a favorite restaurant dish or explore the world of Southern cooking, Country Fried Steak is a perfect place to start.

It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a plate of crispy, golden perfection, paired with a velvety gravy that takes it to the next level.

What Is Country Fried Steak?

Country Fried Steak is a Southern classic that features a breaded and fried beef steak, often served with a creamy, flavorful gravy.

The dish consists of tenderized beef, usually a round steak or cube steak, coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until golden brown and crispy.

The defining characteristic of Country Fried Steak is its rich, creamy gravy, which often has a slightly peppery kick to complement the crispy exterior of the steak.

Although it shares similarities with Chicken Fried Steak (which uses chicken instead of beef), the key difference is often in the texture and seasoning.

Country Fried Steak tends to have a thicker, crunchier breading, while Chicken Fried Steak may have a lighter, crispier crust.

Despite these subtle differences, both dishes are beloved Southern comfort foods that are indulgent and satisfying.

The origins of Country Fried Steak can be traced back to the South, where comfort food traditions run deep. It’s often served for Sunday family dinners, holiday meals, or as a special treat.

At Cracker Barrel, this dish has become a staple of their menu, and for good reason—its combination of flavors and textures is hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak—it’s crispy, tender, and indulgent all at once.

This recipe brings the exact flavors of the beloved dish into your kitchen, and you’ll love it for several reasons:

Crispy, Golden Perfection: The key to a great Country Fried Steak lies in its crispy, golden crust.

This recipe ensures your steak gets coated with the perfect blend of seasonings and flour, resulting in a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Tender and Juicy Steak: While the breading gives the steak its crunch, the beef itself remains juicy and tender inside.

The secret is in the buttermilk marinade, which helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Creamy, Flavorful Gravy: What’s a Country Fried Steak without the gravy? The rich, creamy gravy in this recipe brings it all together, adding a comforting depth of flavor that perfectly complements the crispy steak.

The gravy is smooth, velvety, and just the right amount of savory.

Simple Ingredients: Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.

You don’t need to be an expert chef to make it—just a little patience and the right steps will have you serving up a delicious meal.

Customizable to Your Taste: Want to kick up the heat or add more flavor? This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tweak the seasoning or gravy to suit your preferences.

Whether you prefer extra spice or a milder, creamier sauce, you can adjust it to make it your own.

If you’re craving that Southern comfort food taste but don’t want to leave home, this Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak recipe is the way to go.

It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, special occasions, or when you’re in need of a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak Recipe

To make this Cracker Barrel-inspired Country Fried Steak, you’ll need a few essential ingredients to ensure a flavorful and crispy result. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak:

• Cube Steaks (or round steaks, tenderized): Cube steaks are typically used for their tender texture.
  You can also use round steaks if you don’t have cube steaks on hand, but be sure to tenderize them with a meat mallet or tenderizer.
• Buttermilk: The buttermilk marinade helps tenderize the steak and infuses it with a subtle tangy flavor, making the meat extra juicy and flavorful.
• Seasonings: You’ll need a simple mix of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for seasoning.
  These flavors elevate the steak and add a nice savory depth.

For the Breading:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the breading. It gives the steak a light yet crispy coating.
• Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture ensures the coating is extra crispy when fried.
• Seasoned Salt: A pinch of seasoned salt can give the breading a bit of extra flavor, but regular salt will work just fine if you don’t have it.
• Paprika: Adds a slight smokiness and rich color to the breading.

For the Gravy:

• Butter: Used to create a roux and bring richness to the gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour: Combined with butter to form the roux, thickening the gravy to the perfect consistency.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but you can use heavy cream for an even richer gravy.
• Beef Broth: Adds a deep, savory flavor to the gravy. It complements the steak and brings the dish together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the gravy to taste.

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to recreate Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak right at home.

The combination of tender beef, crispy breading, and creamy gravy will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

Making Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak at home is easier than you might think!

Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure you get that crispy, tender, and flavorful dish you crave.

Step 1: Tenderize the Steak

If you’re using round steaks instead of cube steaks, tenderize them using a meat mallet.

Gently pound the steak to break down the fibers and create a tender texture.

If you’re using cube steaks, this step is not necessary as they’re already tenderized.

Tip: Ensure the steak is of an even thickness, which helps it cook more uniformly.

Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk

Place the tenderized steaks into a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring each steak is fully submerged.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.

The buttermilk will not only tenderize the meat further but also add a subtle tangy flavor.

Tip: For best results, marinate overnight if you have the time.

The longer the marination, the more flavor the steak will absorb.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up a breading station with two shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and seasoned salt.

Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. In the second dish, whisk together the egg and a bit of buttermilk (leftover from marinating the steak).

Step 4: Dredge the Steaks

Take each steak out of the buttermilk and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Then, transfer it to the flour mixture and coat thoroughly, pressing down gently to ensure the breading sticks well.

Repeat the process for each steak.

Tip: For an extra crispy coating, dip the steak in the egg and flour mixture twice.

Step 5: Fry the Steaks

Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a pinch of flour sizzles when added to the pan.

Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

You may need to adjust the heat slightly to avoid burning the breading.

Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the steak should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Make the Gravy

Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Leave about 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet. Add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux.

Cook the roux for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.

Slowly add the milk and beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens into a creamy gravy, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Place the crispy steaks on plates and pour the creamy gravy over the top.

Serve with your favorite Southern sides, like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread, and enjoy a meal that tastes just like Cracker Barrel!

Tips for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

To make sure your Country Fried Steak turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:

1. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Marinade

Buttermilk isn’t just for flavor—it helps tenderize the meat, making the steak juicier and more flavorful.

Marinating for at least an hour is key to achieving the tender texture that makes this dish so delicious.

2. Use the Right Oil for Frying

Vegetable oil or canola oil is best for frying as they have a high smoke point and will keep the breading crisp.

Avoid using olive oil as it can burn at high temperatures and may affect the flavor.

3. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the steak cooks through; if it’s too cold, the breading will absorb excess oil and become soggy.

You want the oil temperature to stay around 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer can help you maintain the perfect frying temperature.

4. Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crispy crust, try dipping your steaks in the egg and flour mixture twice.

The second coating will give you a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up beautifully during frying.

5. Let the Steaks Rest After Frying

Once fried, place your steaks on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the breading to set and maintain its crispy texture.

6. Adjust the Gravy to Your Taste

The key to the perfect gravy is adjusting the seasoning. Taste as you go and add salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

You can also add a splash more milk for a creamier gravy or a bit more beef broth for a richer flavor.

7. Serve Immediately

Country Fried Steak is best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after it’s made.

The crispy breading is at its finest when served immediately, so be sure to have your sides ready and serve the meal as soon as the gravy is poured.

By following these tips and the step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to recreate a truly delicious Cracker Barrel-inspired Country Fried Steak in the comfort of your own home!

Variations of Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

While the classic Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak is a delicious dish on its own, there are a few variations you can try to put your own twist on this Southern comfort food.

1. Spicy Country Fried Steak

If you like a bit of heat, add some extra spice to the breading and gravy.

You can mix cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the flour for the breading, or even use a spicy seasoned salt.

For the gravy, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch.

2. Mushroom Gravy

While the traditional gravy for Country Fried Steak is rich and creamy, you can make a flavorful mushroom gravy for an extra depth of flavor.

Simply sauté sliced mushrooms in butter before making the roux, then add the broth and milk as usual.

The mushrooms will add an earthy richness to the gravy, making it a great variation for mushroom lovers.

3. Cheese-Topped Country Fried Steak

For a cheesy twist, top your fried steak with shredded cheddar cheese right after frying, then place it under the broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese.

This variation adds a creamy, gooey texture to the dish that pairs wonderfully with the crispy crust.

4. Gluten-Free Country Fried Steak

For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily make this dish gluten-free.

Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer extra crunch in the breading.

Additionally, ensure your beef broth and any seasonings used are also gluten-free.

5. Buttermilk-Free Option

If you’re out of buttermilk or prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute with a dairy-free milk (such as almond milk or oat milk) mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to create a tangy effect similar to buttermilk.

This can still yield a tender, flavorful steak, though the taste will be a bit lighter.

Final Thoughts

Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak is a classic comfort food that brings a little bit of Southern warmth to every bite.

From the tender, juicy steak to the crispy breading and creamy gravy, this dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals.

Whether you enjoy it as it is or choose to try some of the variations listed above, you’re sure to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes just like it’s straight from the Cracker Barrel menu.

The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility—while the classic version is beloved by many, you can easily adjust it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate a comforting and delicious Southern favorite from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While cube steaks are commonly used for Country Fried Steak, you can also use round steaks, sirloin, or even tenderized chuck steaks.

Just make sure to tenderize the meat properly if it’s a tougher cut.

2. Can I prepare the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, the gravy can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it over low heat, adding a bit of milk or beef broth if it thickens too much.

3. How do I store and reheat leftover Country Fried Steak?

To store leftovers, place the steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, you can place the steak in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore some of its crispiness.

Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.

4. Can I make this recipe healthier?

Yes, there are a few ways to make Country Fried Steak a bit healthier.

You can use leaner cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderized flank steak, and opt for baking or air frying the steak instead of deep frying.

For the gravy, you can use lower-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter used.

5. Can I freeze the steak?

Yes, you can freeze cooked, breaded Country Fried Steak. Allow the steak to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in a freezer-safe bag.

It will last for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.