Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

Name: Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks (about 8 oz each); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; Fresh thyme sprigs; 2 large russet potatoes; Salt, to taste; 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I absolutely adore hosting intimate dinners at home, especially when it revolves around a classic dish like Steak Frites. The combination of a perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy fries creates an irresistible meal that’s perfect for a romantic evening. Preparing this dish allows me to showcase not just my cooking skills but also my love for good food. The rich, savory flavors mingle together in a way that feels luxurious yet comforting, making any night feel special. I'm excited to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-07T22:09:28.288Z

When I first tried making Steak Frites at home, I was a bit apprehensive. Would the steak come out tender? Would the fries be crispy enough? I took a leap of faith, and after a few tweaks in the cooking method, I found the perfect way to create a restaurant-quality dish right in my kitchen. The secret, I discovered, is letting the steak rest after cooking, which ensures every bite is juicy and full of flavor.

Another tip I’ve learned along the way is to cut the potatoes into thin, even fries for consistent cooking. I bake mine until they are beautifully golden, and the family loves that extra crunch. It’s such a rewarding feeling to enjoy a homemade meal that rivals any fancy restaurant.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy steak seared to perfection with a mouthwatering crust
Crispy fries that are the perfect sidekick to the main dish
Easy to impress your loved one with this classic meal

      

The Art of Cooking Steak

When preparing ribeye steaks, the key is to bring them to room temperature before cooking. This promotes even cooking and prevents the steak from becoming tough. About 30 minutes before you start, take your steaks out of the refrigerator. The goal is to achieve a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful. Depending on your skillet's heat, adjusting the cooking time is vital, as factors like steak thickness and your stovetop can impact it.

Basting with butter, garlic, and thyme during the last minute of cooking is not merely for flavor; it also enhances the steak's richness. Using a spoon, continually drizzle the melted butter over the steaks. This technique not only imparts a delightful aroma but also helps to achieve that coveted golden crust, elevating your dining experience.

Perfecting the Fries

For the fries to achieve that crispy exterior and soft interior, double frying is the secret. After frying the potatoes for the initial 3-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C), allow them to cool for about 30 minutes. This step helps the fries firm up, and a second fry can be at a higher temperature (around 375°F/190°C) for about 2-3 minutes to ensure that ultimate crispiness. Remember to work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.

The choice of russet potatoes is essential as their starch content leads to the best fry texture. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, sweet potatoes can be a delightful twist. Just bear in mind that sweet potatoes may require slightly less frying time due to their natural sugars caramelizing faster.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious steak frites meal.

For the Steak

2 ribeye steaks (about 8 oz each)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Fresh thyme sprigs

For the Fries

2 large russet potatoes
Salt, to taste
4 cups vegetable oil, for frying

The ingredients are pretty straightforward, but the quality of the steak makes a world of difference.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your steak and fries turn out perfectly!

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thin fries. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Fry the Potatoes

In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the fries in batches and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels, seasoning with salt while they are still warm.

Cook the Steaks

Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and black pepper. In a cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time to your preferred doneness.

During the last minute, add butter, crushed garlic, and thyme, basting the steaks with the melted butter.

Rest and Serve

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve alongside the crispy fries and enjoy your romantic dinner.

These steps provide a clear path to a fantastic steak frites that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try serving the meal with a sauce like béarnaise or chimichurri alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the fries in advance by slicing the potatoes and soaking them in cold water for several hours or even overnight. This not only helps reduce starch but also allows for quicker cooking when you're ready to fry. Just ensure to dry them thoroughly to avoid splattering oil during frying. The fries can be pre-fried to the first stage and then cooled and refrigerated until you’re ready for the second fry.

For the steaks, while it’s best to cook them fresh, you can season them ahead of time. A simple rub of salt and pepper, left to marinate for an hour or so in the fridge, will help intensify the flavor, giving you a well-seasoned and delicious end product.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the romantic ambiance of your candlelit dinner, consider pairing your Steak Frites with a luscious red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the steak and fries, balancing the meal beautifully and adding a refreshing crunch.

Don’t forget about garnishing your dish! A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, just before serving can elevate the dish both visually and flavor-wise. It adds a colorful touch that looks beautiful on the plate. Additionally, serve your fries in a rustic basket or cone to give that bistro feel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of steak?

Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin or filet mignon. Just adjust cooking times according to thickness.

→ How do I make the fries even crispier?

Soaking the cut potatoes in water for at least 30 minutes before frying helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.

→ Can I bake the fries instead of frying?

Absolutely! Toss the cut potatoes in oil, season, and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) until golden and crispy.

→ What sides go well with Steak Frites?

A simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with steak frites.