What To Serve With Country Fried Steak

Ah, country fried steak – a true comfort food classic that’s been gracing our tables for decades.

This tenderized and batter-fried piece of beef is a staple in Southern cuisine and has won over taste buds across the nation.

If you’re looking to serve up this mouthwatering dish with some equally scrumptious sides, then you’ve come to the right place!

We’ll be dishing out some fantastic options that will elevate your country-fried steak dinner from good to downright amazing.

Now, we all know that no country-fried steak meal is complete without its traditional sidekick: creamy mashed potatoes smothered in rich gravy. But why stop there?

I’m here to help broaden your culinary horizons by providing you with a few more unique and delectable accompaniments that’ll truly make your plate sing.

So grab your apron and let’s get cookin’ because these tasty pairings are just too good to pass up!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Country Fried Steak– By Chef Natalie

To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Country Fried Steak!

Side Dish	Why it goes well with Country Fried Steak
Creamy Mashed Potatoes	Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and velvety texture that complements the crispy exterior of the Country Fried Steak. The rich and buttery flavor of the potatoes enhances the overall indulgence of the meal.
Southern-Style Green Beans	Southern-style green beans are often cooked with bacon or ham, which adds a savory and smoky taste to the dish. The crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh and vibrant component that balances the richness of the fried steak.
Buttery Cornbread	Buttery cornbread offers a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that pairs well with the crispy and savory Country Fried Steak. It adds a touch of Southern comfort to the meal.
Classic Coleslaw	Classic coleslaw provides a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich and crunchy Country Fried Steak. The cabbage and dressing add a cool and crisp element to the plate.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese	Baked macaroni and cheese is a rich and cheesy side dish that complements the indulgence of Country Fried Steak. Its creamy and comforting nature adds a contrasting texture and a familiar comfort food element to the meal.
Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms	Sautéed garlic mushrooms bring an earthy and savory flavor to the plate. The umami notes of the mushrooms pair well with the Country Fried Steak, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste experience.
Glazed Carrots	Glazed carrots provide a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the plate. The tender and caramelized carrots offer a contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing the overall balance of the meal.
Collard Greens with Bacon	Collard greens are a classic Southern side dish that is often cooked with bacon or ham hocks. The savory and smoky flavors of the greens complement the fried steak, adding a hearty and satisfying element to the plate.
Homemade Biscuits and Gravy	Homemade biscuits and gravy are a Southern staple that pair exceptionally well with Country Fried Steak. The flaky biscuits and creamy gravy add a comforting and indulgent touch to the meal.
Refreshing Tomato Salad	A refreshing tomato salad offers a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the fried steak. The vibrant colors and tangy flavors of the tomatoes add a light and crisp component to the plate.
Fried Okra	Fried okra is a popular Southern side dish that provides a crunchy and slightly spicy accompaniment to the Country Fried Steak. Its unique texture and flavor profile add a Southern flair to the meal.
Creamed Spinach	Creamed spinach brings a creamy and savory element to the plate. The richness of the creamed spinach complements the Country Fried Steak, providing a balance of flavors and textures.
Sweet Potato Casserole	Sweet potato casserole offers a sweet and comforting side dish that pairs well with the savory Country Fried Steak. The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and crunchy toppings creates a delightful contrast.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a quintessential side dish for country fried steak, and selecting the perfect potato variety is essential to achieve that desired texture.

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes provide the ideal blend of starchiness and creaminess needed for this satisfying accompaniment.

The rich flavor profile of these potato varieties pairs exquisitely with country fried steak, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

When preparing your creamy mashed potatoes, consider experimenting with various gravy options to complement both the potatoes and the country fried steak.

Classic white country gravy is a favorite choice among many; its peppery goodness melds harmoniously with the crisp breading of the steak as well as the velvety smoothness of the mash.

Alternatively, brown gravy provides an earthier taste profile that adds depth to both components on your plate.

No matter which gravy you choose, the luxurious silkiness will bind together each mouthful into a symphony of flavors.

A word to wise chefs out there: do not underestimate the power of seasoning in enhancing every element on your plate!

A touch of garlic powder imparts a delightful savory note to your creamy mashed potatoes while freshly ground black pepper brings warmth and spice.

Buttery chives or parsley can also add color and freshness to round out your palate’s pleasure journey through this indulgent meal combination.

With these expert tips at hand, you’ll be sure to serve up a memorable feast starring country-fried steak perfectly accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes – all before moving on to another scrumptious side dish: southern-style green beans!

2. Southern-Style Green Beans

After indulging in those creamy mashed potatoes, it’s time to add a pop of color and some Southern charm to your plate. As they say, variety is the spice of life, so why not explore delicious green bean variations that pair perfectly with country-fried steak?

Southern-Style Green Beans bring a delightful combination of flavor and texture to this classic dish, making them an essential sidekick.

For these Southern-Style Green Beans, you’ll want to start by selecting fresh alternative string beans that have a vibrant green hue and are crisp to the touch.

To elevate their natural flavors, sauté them in bacon grease or butter along with diced onion and garlic until tender.

Next comes the pièce de résistance: adding chicken broth or water seasoned with apple cider vinegar and sugar for just the right balance of tangy sweetness. Allow your beans to simmer until they absorb all of those rich flavors while maintaining their beautiful bright color.

Now that you’ve mastered these scrumptious Southern-Style Green Beans as an accompaniment to your country fried steak meal, prepare yourself for another irresistible addition – Buttery Cornbread! The perfect blend of sweet and savory will leave everyone at the table craving more.

So stay tuned as we dive into yet another mouthwatering side dish destined to become an instant favorite among family and friends alike.

3. Buttery Cornbread

Ah, the perfect accompaniment to your country-fried steak: Buttery Cornbread. This golden delight is a Southern staple that balances out the savory flavors of the main course with its slight sweetness and crumbly texture.

Trust me, my fellow gourmands, once you try this match made in culinary heaven, there will be no turning back.

Let’s talk about cornbread variations for a moment because it truly deserves our attention. Here are some options you can experiment with:

• Traditional: Go for an authentic Southern taste by keeping it simple with buttermilk, yellow cornmeal, and just a touch of sugar.
• Add-ins: Enhance the flavor profile by adding jalapeños or cheddar cheese into the batter before baking.
• Sweet: Satisfy your sweet tooth by incorporating honey or maple syrup into the mix.
• Honey Butter Pairing: Take it up another notch by serving warm slices of cornbread slathered in rich honey butter.
• Skillet-baked: For a rustic feel and crispy edges, bake your cornbread in a cast iron skillet preheated with oil.

As we savor every last bite of deliciousness from our plates adorned with country-fried steak and buttery cornbread, let us not forget one more essential component to complete this mouthwatering mealtime masterpiece.

A fresh side dish that adds crunchiness while also offering palate-cleansing properties shall do wonders. That being said, allow me to introduce classic coleslaw as our next topic to delve into.

4. Classic Coleslaw

Picture this: a refreshing, tangy, and crunchy classic coleslaw sitting right next to your mouthwatering country-fried steak.

The vibrant colors of the cabbage and carrots dance together in perfect harmony with the crispness of the fresh vegetables, offering an exquisite contrast to the rich textures and flavors of your main course.

Coleslaw is indeed one of those versatile side dishes that pair exceptionally well with comfort food classics like country-fried steak.

As an expert chef, I must emphasize that there are countless coleslaw variations for you to explore, ensuring that each time it graces your plate will be a unique experience.

You can experiment by adding different types of cabbages such as red or savoy, incorporating extra crunch from bell peppers or apple slices, adding a touch of sweetness with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or elevating its spiciness with jalapeños or horseradish.

Furthermore, dressing options abound – choose between classic mayonnaise-based dressings which provide creaminess; vinegar-based mixtures for zest and tang; or even yogurt- or sour cream-infused recipes for added depth.

The beauty of making homemade coleslaw lies not just in personalizing it to suit your taste buds but also in savoring how well it complements hearty meat dishes such as our beloved country-fried steak.

So go ahead, don’t hesitate to unleash your culinary creativity when crafting your ideal version of this delightful salad! And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent on this fine dining occasion, why not continue exploring other delicious accompaniments? For instance – baked macaroni and cheese creates yet another fantastic pairing option worth considering…

5. Baked Macaroni And Cheese

Ah, Baked Macaroni and Cheese – a classic comfort food that pairs beautifully with country fried steak. Not only does it provide a delightful contrast in texture, but the creamy cheese sauce also complements the crispy exterior of the steak perfectly.

Let’s dive into some incredible macaroni variations and scrumptious cheese choices.

• Creamy Cheddar
• Smoky Gouda
• Tangy Blue Cheese
• Pungent Parmesan
• Rich Fontina

With these fabulous cheeses at your disposal, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable baked macaroni and cheese experience. Don’t hesitate to mix and match different types for added depth of flavor; perhaps combining sharp cheddar with smooth gouda or bold blue cheese with nutty parmesan.

And don’t forget about the pasta! There are plenty of shapes available to hold onto every bit of cheesy goodness: elbows, shells, cavatappi, fusilli – each bringing their own unique twist to this beloved dish.

As you prepare your luscious baked macaroni and cheese masterpiece, consider topping it off with breadcrumbs toasted in butter for an extra layer of crunch that will leave your guests craving more. You can even add bacon bits or caramelized onions for additional bursts of flavor.

With such a delectable side dish accompanying your country-fried steak, there is no doubt that this meal will be one for the books.

Now let us move on to another mouthwatering accompaniment: sautéed garlic mushrooms await our culinary exploration.

6. Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms

Once upon a time in the enchanted forest, there lived a wise old mushroom named Mr. Morel who taught all the other mushrooms about their unique flavors and textures.

Just like characters from this whimsical tale, our world offers countless mushroom varieties that can add depth and intrigue to any dish – especially when sautéed with garlic!

As we take inspiration from Mr. Morel’s wisdom, let us delve into creating Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms as the perfect companion for country fried steak.

Sautéing mushrooms brings out their earthy flavor while enhancing their texture, making them an ideal side dish choice. Combining these delightful fungi with garlic not only adds robustness but also welcomes some fantastic health benefits; after all, garlic is known for being anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich.

To make your own delectable Sautéed Garlic Mushrooms at home, start by choosing three of your preferred mushroom types using this handy table:

Mushroom Variety	Flavor Profile	Texture
Cremini	Rich & mildly meaty	Firm
Shiitake	Smoky & umami-rich	Chewy
Oyster	Delicate & slightly sweet	Velvety

Once you’ve chosen your desired mix of mushrooms, clean and slice them before heating olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.

Add minced garlic (to taste) followed by the sliced mushrooms once the fragrance fills your kitchen. Cook until they’re tender and golden brown on both sides, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking results.

Now witness how these scrumptious sautéed delights elevate your country-fried steak experience into something truly extraordinary!

Not only will you have added a delicious component brimming with mouth-watering flavors but also enhanced its nutritional value through nature’s bounty of mushroom varieties and garlic benefits.

And as we bid farewell to Mr. Morel, let’s explore another delightful side dish – glazed carrots – that will add a touch of sweetness and color to our meal.

7. Glazed Carrots

Now that you’ve savored the rich flavors of sautéed garlic mushrooms, it’s time to add a touch of vibrant color to your plate with glazed carrots.

This delightful side dish not only complements country-fried steak visually but also provides an excellent balance in terms of taste and texture.

With their natural sweetness enhanced by a simple glaze, these tender yet crunchy morsels will surely elevate your dining experience.

Carrots come in various shapes, sizes, and colors – making them perfect candidates for creating colorful side dishes.

When choosing carrot varieties for this recipe, consider selecting different hues such as orange, yellow, purple or even red.

By combining multiple shades, you’ll achieve an appealing presentation while reaping the benefits of each variety’s unique flavor profile.

• Orange Carrots: classic choice with sweet and earthy notes
• Yellow Carrots: milder flavor with subtle hints of celery
• Purple Carrots: bold and peppery undertones
• Red Carrots: delicate sweetness with floral accents

To make your glazed carrots truly unforgettable, take care to cook them until they reach just the right level of tenderness – neither too soft nor too firm.

Once achieved, coat them generously in a buttery-sweet glaze infused with fragrant herbs like thyme or rosemary.

As you enjoy each bite alongside your mouth-watering country-fried steak, be prepared for an explosion of flavors that is nothing short of culinary perfection!

Next up on our journey through scrumptious side dishes is collard greens with bacon where we’ll explore another fantastic pairing option for your main course.

8. Collard Greens With Bacon

Collard greens with bacon are the crowning glory of any country-fried steak meal. When prepared just right, it is a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing praises to the heavens above.

As an Expert Chef, I am here to share my culinary wisdom on this classic Southern side dish and elevate your dining experience.

For those seeking bacon alternatives or simply looking for ways to enhance their collard green recipe repertoire, there are countless possibilities awaiting exploration.

One popular option is substituting traditional pork bacon with turkey or beef bacon – both can provide similar flavor profiles while reducing the fat content in the dish.

Another fabulous alternative would be incorporating smoked meats like ham hocks or Andouille sausage, which imbue the collard greens with deep smoky notes and rich savoriness.

For vegetarians and vegans alike, consider using liquid smoke seasoning or even chipotle peppers in adobo sauce as a deliciously smoky substitute without sacrificing flavor integrity.

Before you know it, you’ll have mastered numerous collard green variations that marry perfectly alongside your beloved country-fried steak main course.

It’s crucial not to overlook the importance of texture when creating these delightful dishes – gently simmering your greens until tender yet still retaining some bite ensures each forkful is a harmonious balance between softness and crunchiness.

Now that we’ve explored how to take our collard greens from ordinary to extraordinary let me whisk you away into another world where homemade biscuits and gravy reign supreme as the perfect companion piece for our delectable feast.

9. Homemade Biscuits And Gravy

Now that we have our delectable collard greens with bacon ready to serve, let us turn our attention to another Southern classic: homemade biscuits and gravy.

This dish is not only a staple in the South but also an essential accompaniment to country-fried steak. The fluffy, buttery texture of buttermilk biscuits combined with rich and creamy sausage gravy makes for an irresistible combination that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Begin by preparing your scrumptious buttermilk biscuits or savory scones from scratch. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air as they cook up golden-brown perfection in your oven.

Once your biscuits are done baking, it’s time to whip up some hearty sausage gravy using quality ground pork, flavorful seasonings, whole milk, and all-purpose flour for thickening. Pour this luscious sauce over your warm biscuits just before serving and watch as your guests marvel at the culinary magic you’ve created.

As we prepare to conclude our menu planning for a fantastic country-fried steak meal, there remains one more addition needed to balance out these rich flavors – a refreshing tomato salad!

This crisp and colorful side dish will provide a palate-cleansing contrast to the indulgent dishes served thus far. So gather up those ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and tangy vinaigrette ingredients because next on our list is crafting this delightful summertime favorite.

10. Refreshing Tomato Salad

To elevate the dining experience of country-fried steak, consider adorning your plate with a garden-fresh dance partner: a refreshing tomato salad. This vibrant companion not only adds an array of colors to your meal but also presents a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

The crisp juiciness of tomatoes intermingling with the savory crunch of country-fried steak creates a harmonious symphony that sings on your palate.

As you curate this exquisite side dish, be sure to explore various tomato varieties for enhanced visual appeal and flavor profiles.

From cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness to plump heirloom tomatoes boasting rich, complex notes, each variety lends its unique personality to the ensemble.

Complement these ruby jewels further by experimenting with diverse salad dressings such as tangy balsamic vinaigrette, zesty lemon-herb concoctions, or creamy avocado dreamscapes.

By thoughtfully selecting ingredients and dressing pairings that accentuate the natural gifts of each tomato type, you’ll craft a masterpiece worthy of any Expert Chef’s table.

Let us now move our focus from the heavenly realm of refreshing tomato salads to another Southern classic – fried okra. As we journey into this flavorful world filled with golden nuggets of crunchy goodness, let us remember that every great dish begins with fresh produce and careful seasoning choices…

11. Fried Okra

Fried okra is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with the country-fried steak.

For best results, start with fresh okra and slice it into thin pieces. Then, season it with your favorite spices, coat it in cornmeal, and fry it in hot oil until golden and crispy.

Not only does fried okra taste amazing, but it also offers a number of health benefits. It’s a great source of dietary fiber, which can help support digestion and reduce cholesterol. Plus, it’s low in calories, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

When serving fried okra with country-fried steak, I recommend pairing it with other Southern classics such as mashed potatoes, mac, and cheese, or coleslaw.

Enjoy!

Preparing Fried Okra

Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown piece of fried okra with its delightful crunch and delicate earthy flavor.

You know you’re treating yourself to not only an incredibly tasty side dish but also one that’s packed with okra nutrition such as vitamins A, C, K, and essential minerals like magnesium and calcium.

As an expert chef, let me walk you through the process of preparing this scrumptious Southern classic.

Firstly, select fresh okra pods that are firm and bright green without any blemishes or discoloration. Rinse them under cold water before cutting off both ends of each pod.

Now slice your okra into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds – don’t worry if they create some sliminess; it will help bind our coating ingredients later on.

If you have pickled okra available instead of fresh ones, simply rinse off the brine and pat dry before slicing.

Next up is creating a well-seasoned batter for frying. In one shallow bowl, combine flour along with salt, pepper, paprika (or cayenne for extra heat), garlic powder, onion powder, and any other preferred seasonings to taste. In another shallow bowl whisk together eggs beaten slightly with milk or buttermilk.

Dredge your sliced okra in the seasoned flour mixture first until evenly coated then dip into egg wash followed by yet another round in the flour mix ensuring each piece is thoroughly covered for optimal crispness during frying.

Heat about an inch of oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches roughly 350°F (175°C). Fry breaded okra pieces in batches for about 3-4 minutes per batch till golden brown while turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Drain excess oil onto paper towels once done frying all batches keeping them warm until ready to serve alongside your mouthwatering country-fried steak dinner!

Health Benefits Of Fried Okra

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating this delicious southern treat, let’s talk about the health benefits that come with indulging in fried okra.

You might think that frying would negate any nutritional value, but don’t worry – there’s still plenty of goodness packed into each crispy bite!

In fact, okra nutrition remains surprisingly intact even after deep-frying, offering your body a tasty way to enjoy essential nutrients and antioxidants.

One of the most notable aspects of okra nutrition is its antioxidant properties which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

These powerful plant compounds work hard to keep your immune system strong while also promoting better vision, skin health, and overall well-being.

Additionally, okra contains vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bodily functions as well as minerals like magnesium and calcium that support bone strength.

So go ahead and savor every last morsel of those golden-brown delights knowing you’re not only treating yourself to an incredibly scrumptious side dish but also reaping the numerous health benefits fried okra has to offer.

Serving Fried Okra

Now that you’re well-versed in not only the delicious taste but also the okra health benefits, it’s time to get creative with your presentation and serving ideas. After all, we eat first with our eyes, so why not make an impression while dishing up this Southern favorite?

As a true expert chef knows, there’s always room for innovation and experimentation when it comes to plating and pairing. Whip up some creative okra recipes by using fried okra as a topping for salads or rice bowls, adding extra crunch and flavor. Alternatively, serve them alongside other classic Southern dishes like collard greens and cornbread to create a comforting meal reminiscent of grandma’s cooking.

You can even experiment with various dipping sauces – think tangy remoulade or spicy aioli – that’ll elevate your fried okra experience to new heights. So go on, dig in! With each crispy bite packed full of nutrients and antioxidants, you can savor every last bit of goodness knowing you’ve successfully conquered the art of making delectable fried okra while reaping its numerous health benefits.

12. Creamed Spinach

Ah, creamed spinach – a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with the crispy and savory flavors of the country-fried steak.

This elegant accompaniment showcases the rich tastes and textures of various spinach varieties while simultaneously offering nutritional benefits.

The tender leaves are enveloped in a creamy sauce, making each mouthful both comforting and satisfying.

As an Expert Chef, I have had the pleasure of working with numerous spinach varieties such as Savoy, Flat-Leaf or Baby Spinach; each bringing their distinct characteristics to this delightful recipe.

While any variety will do wonders for your creamed spinach, I personally recommend using baby spinach due to its delicate texture which melds seamlessly into the luscious cream sauce.

Moreover, you not only benefit from its fabulous taste but also relish in the health-promoting nutrients it provides including iron, calcium, vitamins A and C among others.

Now that we’ve explored how wonderfully complementing creamed spinach is to your country-fried steak meal let’s consider another scrumptious option: sweet potato casserole.

13. Sweet Potato Casserole

Now that we’ve delved into the delightful world of creamed spinach, let’s move on to another scrumptious side dish that pairs exceptionally well with country-fried steak: Sweet Potato Casserole.

This dish brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to your plate, perfectly complementing the savory goodness of the main course.

Sweet Potato Casserole is not only delicious but also provides an excellent opportunity for creative casserole variations. For instance:

1. Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
2. Incorporate mini marshmallows as a topping for an ooey-gooey experience.
3. Mix in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to accentuate the sweet notes even further.

While indulging in this culinary masterpiece, it’s essential to recognize the sweet potato benefits you’re reaping from each bite. These root vegetables are chock-full of vitamins A and C, helping maintain healthy skin and vision while providing immune system support—a crucial factor during cold and flu seasons. Additionally, they boast high fiber content, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

As expert chefs know, balance is key when curating a meal befitting royalty—and incorporating sides like Creamed Spinach and Sweet Potato Casserole alongside Country Fried Steak ensures just that!

So why wait? Gather up those ingredients and get cooking; soon enough, you’ll have an unforgettable feast laid out before you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my fellow food enthusiasts, you simply haven’t lived until you’ve indulged in a perfectly cooked country-fried steak alongside some heavenly creamy mashed potatoes and sinfully delicious Southern-style green beans.

I must insist that you pair this divine dish with the mouthwatering delights of buttery cornbread, classic coleslaw, or even the glorious baked macaroni and cheese.

And if that’s not enough to satisfy your cravings for soul-warming comfort foods, why not treat yourself further by trying out our refreshing tomato salad? Or perhaps lose yourself in the crispy goodness of fried okra or creamed spinach!

For those seeking ultimate bliss on a plate, look no further than the sweet potato casserole – it truly is what culinary dreams are made of!

Bon appétit!