Steak Frites Recipe: Bringing a Bistro Favorite to Your Kitchen
I recently made this Steak Frites Recipe, and I have to say—it transported me straight to a cozy Parisian bistro! The tender, juicy steak combined with crispy fries was a comforting yet indulgent meal. It was surprisingly easy to pull off, too.
While making it, I thought about how this could sit alongside any of my favorite comfort foods—just like my go-to Mexican Chicken Casserole Recipe. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
Ingredients for the Perfect Steak Frites
These ingredients come together for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Use fresh and high-quality components for the best results.
- 1 ribeye or sirloin steak (1-inch thick) – Ribeye gives more marbling; sirloin is leaner and flavorful.
- 2 large starchy potatoes (like Russets) – Russets are best for that crisp outside and fluffy inside.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Great for frying and adds a mild, fruity flavor.
- Salt (to taste) – Enhances the natural meat and potato flavors.
- Pepper (to taste) – Adds just the right touch of heat.
- Fresh herbs (optional) – Think thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fancy finish.
Note: This recipe serves 2 people. Double the ingredients for a family-style dinner.
Tasty Twists: Variations to Try
Looking to switch it up or cater to dietary needs? Here are some great variations—and yes, these can easily fit into your favorite dinner recipes lineup!
- Dairy-Free Option: It’s already dairy-free—perfect for sensitive diets.
- Air Fryer Fries: Use an air fryer for a healthier take on the fries.
- Garlic Butter Steak: Add garlic and butter while searing the steak for extra richness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A delicious and nutritious alternative to regular fries.
- Truffle Fries: Drizzle truffle oil on your fries for a gourmet twist.
Cooking Time Breakdown
Make sure to schedule your kitchen time right—it’s quicker than it sounds!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s what I used to whip up this French classic easily:
- Cutting board – For prepping the potatoes and steak.
- Chef’s knife – To cut potatoes into even sticks.
- Large bowl – To soak the potato sticks in cold water.
- Skillet or frying pan – A heavy pan for searing the steak perfectly.
- Deep skillet or fryer – To fry the potatoes evenly.
- Tongs – For flipping the steak and fries safely.
- Paper towels – To drain the fries after frying.
How to Make Steak Frites Recipe
This dish comes together beautifully with just a few simple steps. Let’s walk through it from prep to plate.
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Cut them into even ½-inch sticks. This size gives you that perfect balance between crispy edges and soft centers. Once cut, soak the potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps them crisp up better when fried.
Step 2: Fry the Fries
Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean towel—wet fries mean oil splatter! Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Each batch should take 5–7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Remove them onto paper towels to soak up extra oil.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Steak
Season your steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Use a hot skillet (cast iron works great) to sear the steak. For medium-rare, cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Slice the steak against the grain and serve it next to your crispy fries. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for flavor and presentation. That’s it—you’ve just made Steak Frites!
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
I’ve made this a few times now, and here are a few personal tips to make your steak frites truly amazing:
- Don’t skip soaking the potatoes—it makes a huge difference in texture.
- Rest the steak after cooking; it keeps the juices inside.
- Preheat the skillet well before adding the steak.
- Use a thermometer if unsure—130°F is perfect for medium-rare.
- Sprinkle some sea salt over the fries right after frying—game changer!
How to Serve Steak Frites Recipe?
You can elevate this dish even more with the right sides and plating. For a touch of elegance, serve it on a large plate with the steak fanned out over the fries. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Add a small bowl of garlic aioli or béarnaise sauce on the side.
Pair it with a simple green salad or a side of roasted veggies for balance. This presentation style even complements cozy meals like a Creamy Jalapeño Corn Chowder Recipe for your next dinner idea.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at what you’re consuming per serving.
- Calories: 721
- Protein: 39g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 49g
Perfect for a hearty meal with balanced protein and carbs.
How to Store Steak Frites
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.
- Storing: Store leftover steak and fries separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the steak for up to 2 months, but the fries are best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating: Reheat steak in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Re-crisp fries in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s versatile and easy to pull off. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to it:
- Simple Prep: Only a few steps and minimal ingredients.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Fancy flavors without the bill.
- Customizable: Easy to change it up with variations.
- Perfect for Date Night or Family Dinner: Elegant yet comforting.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves crispy fries and juicy steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results
Avoid these pitfalls to make sure your Steak Frites turns out perfect every time.
- Skipping the potato soak – It really helps with crispiness.
- Overcrowding the pan – Fries and steak need space to cook evenly.
- Not drying potatoes – Wet fries won’t crisp and may splatter.
- Overcooking the steak – Use a thermometer for precise doneness.
- Not resting the steak – Juices will run out if you slice it too soon.
More Info for Better Experience
- You can use duck fat instead of olive oil for authentic French fries.
- Try adding a red wine reduction sauce or béarnaise for an elevated flavor.
- Serve with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a full French experience.
- Add grilled vegetables or a side salad to balance the richness.
- If short on time, use store-bought frozen fries—but bake them well!
Steak Frites Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Cut them into even ½-inch sticks. This size gives you that perfect balance between crispy edges and soft centers. Once cut, soak the potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps them crisp up better when fried.
- Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean towel—wet fries mean oil splatter! Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Each batch should take 5–7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Remove them onto paper towels to soak up extra oil.
- Season your steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Use a hot skillet (cast iron works great) to sear the steak. For medium-rare, cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
- Slice the steak against the grain and serve it next to your crispy fries. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for flavor and presentation. That’s it—you’ve just made Steak Frites!