Air-Fryer Country-Fried Steak: Quick, Crispy Comfort Food

Country fried steak, also known as chicken fried steak, is a beloved Southern dish that combines a tenderized and breaded piece of beef steak with a creamy gravy. Traditionally, the steak is fried in oil, but it can also be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative that's just as delicious. This guide will teach you how to make mouthwatering country fried steak in an air fryer, so get ready to indulge in this classic comfort food without the guilt!

Choosing the right steak

Type of Steak:

Select a tenderized cut of beef such as cube steak or round steak. Cube steak, typically made from top sirloin or top round, is the classic choice for country-fried steak. It has been flattened and tenderized, creating small indentations that give it its name. You can also use round steak and tenderize it yourself using a meat mallet or meat tenderizer.

Thickness:

For even cooking and optimal results, choose steaks that are not too thick. Thinner steaks will cook more quickly and evenly in the air fryer. If you have thicker steaks, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Freshness:

Opt for fresh, high-quality steaks instead of frozen ones. Fresh steaks will yield better results in terms of texture and crispiness. Frozen steaks tend to release excess moisture during cooking, which can affect the overall crispness of the dish.

Seasoning:

Before coating your steaks, season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor of the meat and the breading. Let the seasoned steaks rest for a few minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.

Resting:

After coating your steaks with the flour mixture and egg wash, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the breading to adhere properly, reducing the chances of it falling off during cooking.

By following these tips and choosing the right steak, you'll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering country-fried steak in your air fryer. Enjoy the crispy, juicy, and flavorful results!

Breading the steak

Firstly, prepare your dredging station by setting up three shallow dishes or bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour and your choice of seasonings. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried sage. Mix the flour and seasonings together to ensure a well-combined mixture.

In the second bowl, prepare the liquid mixture. You can use a combination of buttermilk, hot sauce, and a beaten egg, or simply whisk together an egg and water. The liquid mixture helps the flour adhere to the steak.

Now, it's time to coat the steak! Using one hand, dip the steak into the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour—this step is important to prevent the coating from becoming too thick and falling off.

Next, dip the steak into the liquid mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. This step ensures the flour sticks to the steak and creates a moist surface for the next step.

Using your other hand, coat the steak with flour once again. This double dredging technique ensures a thorough coating. Press the flour mixture onto the steak and shake off any excess.

Place the breaded steak on a plate or sheet pan and repeat the process with any remaining steaks. Allow the steaks to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period lets the breading set and helps the flour absorb some of the moisture, reducing the chances of dry flour on the surface.

Once your steaks are well-coated and rested, it's time to move on to the air-frying step, where you'll transform these breaded beauties into crispy, golden delights!

Cooking the steak

Now that you have gathered all your ingredients and set up your dredging station, it's time to cook the steak!

First, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit for a few minutes to lose their chill. This will help the breading adhere better.

Next, it's time to dredge the steaks. Using one hand, dip each steak into the flour mixture, making sure it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour—this step is crucial, as too much flour can cause the coating to become too thick and fall off during cooking.

Now, with your other hand, dip the steak into the egg mixture, and then back into the flour mixture. Ensure the steak is entirely coated, and press the flour mixture onto the steak if needed.

Repeat this process for each steak, and then let the steaks rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the breading to set, reducing the chances of it falling off during cooking.

While the steaks are resting, preheat your air fryer to 370-400°F. It's important not to skip this step, as preheating ensures the steaks start cooking immediately and helps prevent sticking.

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to cook the steaks. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Place the steaks in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the steaks in batches.

Lightly spray the tops of the steaks with cooking spray, which will help them crisp up. Set the timer for 10-15 minutes, and cook until golden brown and crispy. For optimal results, flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time and give them another light spray of oil.

The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer's model and wattage, so keep an eye on the steaks to ensure they don't overcook. The steaks are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F, so use a meat thermometer to check their doneness.

Once the steaks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your steaks are juicy and tender.

And that's it! You now have perfectly cooked country-fried steaks, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve them with your favourite sides and enjoy the fruits of your labour!

Making the gravy

While the steaks are cooking in the air fryer, you can make a creamy country gravy on the stovetop. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic salt, continuing to whisk. You can also add milk and whipping cream to the mixture for a lighter colour and texture. Turn the heat up to medium-low and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk.

For a white gravy, slowly add milk to the flour and butter mixture, whisking constantly. Cook until thickened, then remove from the heat. You can also add seasonings of your choice to taste.

If you prefer a brown gravy, add pan drippings to the flour and butter mixture. You can also add milk and seasonings to taste.

Pour the gravy over the steaks before serving.

Serving suggestions

Country fried steak is a hearty, comforting Southern dish that pairs well with classic sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your air-fried country fried steak:

Classic Sides

• Mashed potatoes
• Country-style gravy
• Collard greens
• Coleslaw
• Biscuits
• Cornbread
• Green beans
• Air fryer corn on the cob
• Air fryer green beans and bacon
• Air fryer baby potatoes

Creative Variations

• Mushroom gravy
• Honey mustard dip
• Ranch dressing
• Hot sauce
• Barbecue sauce

Sides to Complete the Feast

• Cheesy hashbrown potatoes
• Balsamic glazed brussel sprouts
• Panera broccoli cheddar mac & cheese
• Air fryer carrots
• Old-fashioned yeast rolls
• Southern instant pot green beans
• Red skin mashed potatoes

Frequently asked questions