Country Fried Steak Gravy: Diner-Style Creamy Perfection!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) cube steak, approximately ½ inch thick
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (8g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• ½ teaspoon (1g) garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon (1g) onion powder
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups/500-750ml)
• 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720ml) whole milk, warmed slightly
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon (2g) salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon (1g) black pepper, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• Reserved pan drippings from frying steak (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)