Looking for a classic dish that’s as timeless as it is delicious? Steak Frites, with its perfectly seared steak paired with crispy, golden French fries, is the epitome of comfort food. This dish has been a staple in French bistros for centuries, and for good reason! In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the best Steak Frites at home, with a modern twist that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner, a special occasion, or a weekend treat, this easy-to-make recipe will have you savoring every bite. Paired with a flavorful steak and crispy frites, this dish is a true indulgence that’s simple enough for any home cook to master.
Why You’ll Love Steak Frites
– Restaurant-Quality at Home: With just a few simple steps, you can recreate the steak frites experience from your favorite French bistro.
– Perfectly Seared Steak: Learn the secret to cooking the perfect steak, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
– Golden, Crispy Fries: The perfect French fries to accompany your steak, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
– Customizable: Choose your favorite cut of steak and seasoning, and adjust the level of crispiness on your fries to your liking.
– Classic & Elegant: A timeless dish that’s always a hit at dinner parties or when you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
– 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (or your preferred cut of steak)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, smashed
– Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Frites:
– 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Sauce (for serving):
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions
– Steak: You can use any cut of steak you prefer, such as sirloin, flank, or strip steak.
– Potatoes: If you don’t have russet potatoes, Yukon Golds or sweet potatoes will also work for fries.
– Butter: Use ghee or olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free alternative.
– Herbs: Try adding different herbs like oregano, sage, or basil to the steak for a unique flavor twist.
– Sauce: You can substitute the mayonnaise sauce with a classic béarnaise sauce or chimichurri for different flavor profiles.
How to Make Steak Frites
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel and cut the potatoes into thin fries (about 1/4-inch thick).
Toss the fries in olive oil and season with salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, finish the fries under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
While the fries are baking, season your steak generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium, 145°F for medium-well).
In the last minute of cooking, add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs to the pan. Baste the steak with the melted butter for an extra boost of flavor.
Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make a simple dipping sauce for the fries.
You can also opt for a classic béarnaise sauce or chimichurri for a more traditional accompaniment.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Plate your steak and frites, garnish with fresh parsley, and drizzle with the dipping sauce if desired.
Serve with a side of salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Mix-ins & Add-ons
– Cheese Fries: Add some shredded cheese to your fries while they’re baking for a cheesy twist.
– Onion Rings: Serve with a side of crispy onion rings for a fun addition to the meal.
– Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus or mushrooms complement the steak and fries beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Steak Frites
– Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest after cooking to preserve the juices and ensure it’s tender and flavorful.
– Preheat the Skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the steak to get that beautiful sear.
– Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasoning the steak; it brings out the natural flavor of the meat.
– Choose the Right Potatoes: For the crispiest fries, russet potatoes are your best bet due to their high starch content.
– Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary will infuse your steak with the best flavor while cooking.
Storage & Reheating
– Refrigerator: Store leftover steak and fries separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze leftover fries for up to 1 month. The steak, however, is best consumed fresh.
– Reheating: Reheat the fries in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat, covered, to avoid drying it out.
Recipe Variations
– Steak Frites with a Twist: Use a different cut of steak like flank or skirt steak for a more affordable but still delicious option.
– Sweet Potato Fries: Swap regular fries for sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative that still offers a satisfying crunch.
– Garlic Herb Butter: Top the steak with a dollop of garlic herb butter to elevate the flavor even more.
FAQs – Steak Frites
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
For the best results, it’s best to make the steak and fries fresh. However, you can prepare the fries ahead of time and reheat them in the oven.
Q: How do I know when my steak is cooked perfectly?
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the doneness of your steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 125°F, for medium 135°F, and for well-done, 145°F.
Q: Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fries if you’re in a pinch. Just follow the instructions on the package for cooking time and temperature.
Q: What’s the best way to cook the steak if I don’t have a skillet?
You can grill your steak instead of using a skillet. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the steak for the same amount of time as indicated in the recipe.
Steak Frites is a delicious, classic French dish that’s easier to make than you think! With perfectly cooked steak, crispy fries, and a choice of dipping sauces, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy this modern take on a French favorite right in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Steak Frites | The Modern Proper
Equipment
- 1 skillet (cast-iron preferred)
- 1 frying pan or deep fryer for fries
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 tongs or spatula
- 1 paper towel (for draining fries)
Ingredients
- 4 steaks ribeye or sirloin
- 4 large potatoes for fries
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin fries. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer and fry the potatoes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steaks in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Add garlic and thyme in the last minute of cooking to infuse the steak with flavor.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve the steaks with the crispy fries and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
- You can serve with a side of béarnaise sauce or garlic butter for added richness.
- For a more elegant touch, serve with a side of green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
