1 1/2 pounds boneless round steak, fat trimmed and pounded1/4-inch thick with a meat tenderizer
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons garlic powder
3 tablespoons onion powder
3 tablespoons sweet paprika
3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups buttermilk
Canola oil
8-ounce slab bacon, cut into lardons
2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, heated
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Finely chopped fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh thyme and parsley sprigs, for garnish