If you’ve been dreaming of a dish that combines juicy, perfectly seared steak with irresistibly crispy fries, look no further than this classic Steak Frites Recipe. It’s a beloved French bistro staple that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels downright luxurious. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a special dinner, this recipe promises to deliver tender ribeye or sirloin steak paired with golden fries that have just the right crunch, creating the ultimate comfort food experience right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Steak Frites Recipe calls for straightforward, essential ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Each one plays a vital role in crafting this delicious dish, from the rich flavor of the ribeye to the crisp texture of the fries.
- 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks: Choose steaks about 1 inch thick for juicy, tender results that cook evenly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the steak.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a mild, fruity layer of flavor to the steak while helping it sear beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for basting — it creates a rich, luscious finish on the steak.
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed: Infuses the butter and oil with aromatic depth.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary: Fresh herbs add a fragrant note perfect for enhancing the savory steak.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries: The star of the fries—russets offer ideal starch content for that crunchy outside and fluffy inside.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Necessary for double-frying the potatoes to achieve that signature crisp.
- Sea salt for sprinkling: The final touch to season fries perfectly as soon as they come out of the oil.
How to Make Steak Frites Recipe
Step 1: Seasoning the Steaks
Start by generously seasoning your steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the natural meat flavors. Let the steaks come to room temperature while you prepare your potatoes—this ensures even cooking and a juicy, tender result.
Step 2: Preparing the Fries
Thinly cut your peeled russet potatoes into fries and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, which is the secret to crispy fries instead of soggy ones. Drain and pat them completely dry to prevent oil splatter when frying.
Step 3: First Frying of the Potatoes
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 325°F (165°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 3–4 minutes, until soft but not browned. This initial frying cooks them through gently and sets the texture for crispiness later. Remove the fries and drain them on paper towels.
Step 4: Second Frying for Crispiness
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again, this time until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and immediately sprinkle with sea salt. This double-fry technique is what gives those fries their irresistible crunch.
Step 5: Searing the Steaks
While the fries finish, heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steaks for about 3–4 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare. In the last minute, add the butter, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan, continuously spooning the flavorful melted butter over the steaks. This basting step locks in juices and infuses deep aroma into the meat.
Step 6: Resting and Serving the Steak Frites
Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Serve immediately alongside your golden fries for a stunning bistro-style meal.
How to Serve Steak Frites Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness against the rich steak and crispy fries. You can also serve with a dollop of garlic aioli or herb butter to enhance flavors and create a mouthwatering dip for the fries.
Side Dishes
While Steak Frites is satisfying on its own, a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus pairs beautifully and balances the richness of the main dish. A crisp, citrusy salad cut through the buttery steak and fries wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the fries in a small wire basket next to the steak plated on a wooden board for that authentic French bistro feel. Another idea is to slice the rested steak into thick strips and arrange it atop the fries, drizzling with the pan juices and melted butter for a rustic, elegant presentation that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap your steak tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store fries separately in an airtight container to keep them from losing all their crispness.
Freezing
While freezing steak and fries isn’t ideal for maintaining peak texture and flavor, you can freeze cooked steak if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking. Fries freeze poorly but you can par-cook and freeze raw cut potatoes before frying to save time later.
Reheating
To reheat steak without drying it out, place it in a low oven (about 250°F) for 10-15 minutes and finish with a quick sear in a hot pan. For fries, reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to revive their crispiness rather than using the microwave, which makes them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this Steak Frites Recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye and sirloin are excellent choices for their balance of tenderness and flavor, but you can also try strip steak or filet mignon depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What makes the fries so crispy in this recipe?
The secret is the double frying process, where fries are first cooked at a lower temperature until soft, then fried again at a hotter temperature to achieve that irresistible golden crunch. Soaking them in cold water beforehand also helps remove starch for extra crispness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Steak Frites Recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple, fresh ingredients without any wheat-containing sauces or breading. Just ensure your oil and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten additives.
How do I know when the steak is medium-rare?
Cooking time of about 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat usually yields medium-rare for a 1-inch steak. The internal temperature should be around 130-135°F. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to get your desired doneness.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can soak and cut the potatoes a few hours ahead of time and keep them in cold water until frying. You can also season the steaks and let them rest in the fridge covered, but bring them to room temperature before cooking for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Frites Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to impress with its simple yet refined flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your dinner routine with classic French flair that feels special but is surprisingly approachable. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch of those golden fries alongside a perfectly cooked, buttery steak—it’s pure comfort and joy on a plate!
