If you have ever dreamed of capturing that perfect French bistro experience right in your own kitchen, this Steak Frites Recipe is your ticket there. Imagine a perfectly seared ribeye or sirloin steak resting tenderly beside a mountain of crispy, golden fries that crunch with every bite. This classic pairing is all about balancing rich, meaty flavors with the satisfying texture of the fries, making it one of those dishes that’s deceptively simple yet irresistibly indulgent. Whether you’re craving a special weeknight dinner or want to impress guests, this Steak Frites Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Steak Frites Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each fresh, quality ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that unmistakable rustic charm. From the hearty cut of steak to the humble russet potatoes, everything comes together effortlessly.
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (10–12 oz each): Choose well-marbled cuts for juiciness and flavor that melt in your mouth.
- 1½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries: Their starchy texture makes for fries that crisp up beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for fries): Helps the fries bake evenly and develop that golden crunch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for steak): Adds richness and enhances the natural sear on the steak.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for basting the steak, infusing luxurious flavor and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed: Infuses aromatic depth during the final butter basting.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary: Fresh herbs elevate the steak’s flavor with fragrant notes.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: The fundamental seasoning that brings out the best in both steak and fries.
- Optional: coarse sea salt for finishing: Adds an irresistible crunch and bursts of saltiness.
How to Make Steak Frites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Perfect Crispy Fries
Start by soaking your cut fries in cold water for a minimum of 30 minutes. This step might seem trivial, but it’s key to removing excess starch, ensuring your fries turn out crisp instead of soggy. After draining and drying them thoroughly, toss the fries with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet so each fry has room to crisp up without steaming. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through for golden, irresistible crunchiness.
Step 2: Sear Your Steaks to Juicy Perfection
While the fries are baking, pat your steaks dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking—this means it’s hot enough to give you that coveted crust. Sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side if you’re aiming for medium-rare, adjusting cooking time for your preferred doneness. In the last minute, toss in the butter, garlic, and herb sprigs, basting the steaks by spooning the melted butter repeatedly over them. This final flourish locks in flavor and ramps up the aroma tremendously.
Step 3: Rest and Serve Like a Pro
Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a warm plate and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute so every bite is wonderfully moist. Serve immediately alongside your golden fries, finishing the fries with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt if you like, for that extra pop of texture and flavor. Voilà —you have your own authentic Steak Frites for any occasion!
How to Serve Steak Frites Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing brings out the charm of your Steak Frites Recipe quite like a thoughtful garnish. A few fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of parsley can add a bright touch to the plate, balancing the richness of the steak. For a special twist, a dollop of garlic aioli or herb butter on top of the steak or fries creates an indulgent layer of flavor that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
While the steak and fries are the stars, complementing sides can elevate your meal even further. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers freshness, while roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients. For extra heartiness, consider a creamy mushroom sauce or a classic French green bean almondine alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes all the difference when sharing your favorite Steak Frites Recipe. Try serving the fries in a small metal basket or wrapped in parchment for a bistro-inspired vibe. Plating the steak sliced on a wooden board with sprigs of fresh herbs adds rustic elegance. Even stacking fries in a neat pile or arranging steak medallions with precision brings a restaurant-quality experience to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooked steak and fries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will help maintain their texture and flavor better than combining them at storage.
Freezing
While we don’t recommend freezing cooked fries as they tend to lose crispness, you can freeze raw cut fries before baking. Simply dry them thoroughly after cutting, freeze on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Steaks freeze well before cooking but are best fresh to enjoy the full juiciness.
Reheating
When reheating your Steak Frites Recipe, gently warm the steak in a low oven or covered skillet to avoid drying it out. Reheat fries on a wire rack in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 5–7 minutes to bring back their crunch without sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this Steak Frites Recipe?
Absolutely! While ribeye and sirloin are recommended for their flavor and tenderness, you can also opt for strip steak, filet mignon, or even flank steak, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make my fries extra crispy?
Soaking the fries in cold water, drying them completely, and baking in a single layer are essential. For extra crispiness, double-fry them in hot oil or bake them on a wire rack to allow air circulation all around.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts. However, fresh herbs add that vibrant aroma during basting which really enhances the steak’s flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe for more than two people?
Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients accordingly. Make sure your pan is large enough to avoid overcrowding the steak, and consider baking fries on multiple trays for even crisping.
Is this Steak Frites Recipe suitable for a special occasion?
Without a doubt! Its elegant simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors make it perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or any celebration where you want to impress with classic French comfort food.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a great Steak Frites Recipe—comforting yet sophisticated, straightforward but deeply satisfying. Once you master this classic combination, you’ll find countless reasons to make it again and again. So grab your favorite steak, pull out those russets, and dive into a meal that feels both like a treat and a warm hug. You’re going to love every bite!
Print
Steak Frites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes soaking time)
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Oven-Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
Steak Frites is a classic French bistro dish featuring juicy pan-seared ribeye or sirloin steaks paired with crispy oven-baked russet potato fries. This recipe combines simple seasonings and techniques to create a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 (10–12 oz) boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
- salt and black pepper to taste
Fries
- 1½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- salt and black pepper to taste
- optional: coarse sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Prepare the fries: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness.
- Toss and bake fries: Toss the dried fries with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Bake fries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fries for 30–35 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to achieve golden and crispy results on all sides.
- Season steaks: While fries bake, pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Sear steaks: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for preferred doneness based on thickness.
- Baste steaks: In the last minute of cooking, add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme or rosemary sprigs to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter continuously over the steaks to infuse rich flavor and moisture.
- Rest steaks: Remove steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board or plate for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute for a tender, juicy bite.
- Serve: Plate the rested steaks alongside the hot crispy fries. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over fries and steaks if desired for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
Notes
- For extra-crispy fries, consider baking them on a wire rack or double-frying in oil instead of baking.
- Add garlic aioli or herb butter as a dipping sauce or topping for enhanced flavor.
