1-First Step: Pound and season the steaks Lay the 4 steaks on a cutting board and pound them to about 0.25 inch thickness. A meat mallet works best, but a rolling pin or heavy pan can do the job too. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. This step helps tenderize tougher cuts like cube steak and gives you a more even cook.

2-Second Step: Set up the breading station In one shallow bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper. In a second bowl, beat 2 large eggs with 1 cup buttermilk. This double coating is what gives country fried steak its crisp, craggy crust.

3-Third Step: Bread each steak Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour first, then dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, then coat it in the flour again. Press the flour onto the meat so it sticks well. Set the breaded steaks on a plate while you heat the oil.

4-Fourth Step: Heat the oil and fry Pour 0.5 cup oil into a large skillet and heat it to 350 degrees F. A thermometer helps here because oil that is too cool makes the crust greasy, while oil that is too hot can burn the coating before the steak cooks through. Fry each steak for about 2 minutes per side, spooning hot oil over the top if needed so you do not have to deep fry.

5-Fifth Step: Keep the steaks warm Move each fried steak to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Place the rack in a 200 degrees F oven to keep the steaks warm and crisp while you make the gravy. This also helps hold the crust instead of letting it steam on a plate.

6-Sixth Step: Make the creamy gravy Pour off the pan fat until you have about 0.25 cup of drippings left in the skillet. Add 1 tablespoon butter and let it melt. Whisk in 0.25 cup all-purpose flour to make a roux, then slowly add 2 cups whole milk and 0.5 cup heavy cream if using. Keep whisking until the gravy thickens. If you want a richer flavor, replace part of the milk with beef broth. Season with salt to taste.

7-Final Step: Serve hot Spoon the warm gravy over the steaks and serve right away. This is the moment when country fried steak with creamy gravy really shines. It is especially good with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or green beans on the side.