IHOP Country Fried Steak Recipe

Craving a satisfying IHOP country fried steak right at home?

Let me show you how to get this done!

You’ll love how the peppery, crispy coating perfectly complements the juicy steak inside.

Before breading, it’s key to double-dip your steak in the seasoned flour and egg mixture to get that extra crunch.

Pair this steak with a generous serving of sausage gravy for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

How to Make IHOP Country Fried Steak Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 steaks (cube steaks)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 cups vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (for gravy)
• 1/4 cup flour (for gravy)
• 1 tsp black pepper (for gravy)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for gravy)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Soak the cube steaks in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.

Use shallow bowls to coat steaks with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Once hot, fry each floured steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Remove steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3:

In a separate skillet, spray with cooking spray and fry the eggs to your desired doneness.

Use sunny side up or over easy for a classic touch.

Step 4:

Make the gravy by adding 1/4 cup of flour to 2 cups of the leftover oil in the skillet.

Whisk until smooth and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5:

Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, black pepper, and salt.

Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5-8 minutes.

Step 6:

Serve the fried steaks hot, topped with the gravy, alongside the fried eggs.

Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Buttermilk Magic

Soak your steaks in buttermilk as it helps tenderize the meat, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful!

Gravy Consistency

Gradually add milk to the flour-oil mixture to get a smooth, lump-free gravy. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

Frying Perfectly

Maintain medium heat to ensure steaks cook evenly without burning the coating.

Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.

Seasoning

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat!

Gravy Tip

For a richer gravy, you can use half-and-half instead of regular milk.

Enjoy your IHOP Country Fried Steak Recipe!

What to Serve with IHOP Country Fried Steak Recipe

Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

Mashed potatoes with gravy is a timeless and comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with country fried steak.

The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes balances the crispy steak, while the rich gravy ties everything together.

This combination is a classic for a reason!

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is another fantastic option that brings a touch of sweetness to the meal.

The velvety and slightly sweet corn adds a delightful contrast to the savory steak.

It’s also a nostalgic Southern side dish that many enjoy.

Brussels Sprouts

For a healthy and flavorful twist, consider serving roasted Brussels sprouts.

Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and adds a bit of crunch.

Brussels sprouts provide a nice balance to the heartiness of the fried steak.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries offer an exciting and flavorful alternative to regular fries.

Their natural sweetness and crispy texture compliment the savory country fried steak perfectly.

They also add a pop of color to your plate, making the meal look as good as it tastes!

Coleslaw

Coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and zesty flavor to the table.

The tangy dressing of the coleslaw cuts through the richness of the fried steak, making each bite satisfying and balanced.

It’s a great way to add a bit of freshness to the meal.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots provide a unique and tasty side dish for your country fried steak.

The sweetness of the honey glaze enhances the natural flavors of the carrots.

Their tender texture improves the overall dining experience without overwhelming the palate.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Options

You can use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different protein.

Ground turkey also works well if you want a leaner option.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using a meat substitute like a plant-based steak.

Coating Alternatives

Instead of using regular flour, you can try almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free dish.

Breadcrumbs can add more crunch to your coating.

Using cornmeal gives the coating a slightly different texture and flavor.

Seasoning Choices

Adding smoked paprika to your flour mix adds a smoky flavor.

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chili powder.

Using garlic salt instead of regular salt adds extra flavor without extra ingredients.

Dairy Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative.

You can use egg replacers if you are attempting to make it vegan.

Buttermilk can be replaced by combining regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

How to Store Leftover IHOP Country Fried Steak

When you have leftover IHOP Country Fried Steak, proper storage is essential.

First, allow the steaks to cool down to room temperature.

Wrap each steak individually with freezer paper.

This method locks in moisture and keeps air out.

After wrapping, place the steaks in a single layer inside a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Removing Air from the Bag

Lay the bag flat on a surface and press out as much air as possible.

Seal the bag tightly, leaving just a small opening at one corner.

Use a straw to suck out the remaining air, and then close the opening completely.

Storing in the Refrigerator

If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, store them in the refrigerator.

Place the wrapped steaks in an airtight container.

They will last for up to three days this way.

Freezing for Longer Storage

For longer storage, freeze the wrapped steaks.

Make sure to label the freezer bag with the date.

Frozen steaks can be stored for up to three months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Tenderizing Process

One mistake you should avoid is skipping the tenderizing process for the steak.

Make sure to properly tenderize the meat to ensure that it cooks evenly and has a great texture.

Cubed steak is ideal for this recipe since it’s already been run through a mechanical tenderizer.

Overcooking the Steak

Another common mistake is overcooking the steak.

Fry each side for just 3-4 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy coating without drying out the meat inside.

Cooking too long leaves you with a tough, chewy steak, instead of a juicy and tender one.

Neglecting the Need for Seasoning

Not seasoning your meat and flour mixture adequately is also a big pitfall.

Remember to season both the flour and the steak generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Proper seasoning ensures each bite is flavorful and delicious!