If you have ever dreamed of mastering a classic French bistro favorite, this Steak Frites Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s the perfect harmony of a juicy, pan-seared ribeye paired with irresistibly crispy oven-baked fries. The simplicity of this dish belies its incredible depth of flavor, where fragrant rosemary and melting garlic butter elevate the steak, and perfectly seasoned fries complete the experience. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night or simply treating yourself to something special, this Steak Frites Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The foundation of any remarkable dish lies in its ingredients, and for this Steak Frites Recipe, you only need a handful of essentials. Each ingredient plays a vital role: from the rich, marbled steak that promises tenderness to the bright, golden fries that add crunch and warmth. Quality and simplicity combine to create a dish that’s deceptively easy but truly unforgettable.

Ribeye steaks: Opt for well-marbled steaks for maximum juiciness and flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances the natural taste of the meat and fries.
Olive oil: Used for roasting fries and searing the steak, it provides a subtle fruity richness.
Butter: Adds creaminess and helps carry the flavors of garlic and rosemary during basting.
Garlic cloves: Smashed to release aroma and infuse the butter during cooking.
Fresh rosemary sprigs: A fragrant herb that enhances the steak with its piney, earthy notes.
Potatoes: Peeled and cut into fries, they form the crispy, golden side everyone loves.

How to Make Steak Frites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Fries

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and cut your potatoes into uniform fries to ensure even cooking. Toss them generously with olive oil and a pinch of salt for flavor and crispness. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, which helps them cook evenly and become delightfully crispy. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they achieve that perfect golden-brown color and crunch that makes fries so crave-worthy.

Step 2: Season the Steaks

While the fries are baking, take the ribeye steaks and season them generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here – the seasoning is key to creating a flavorful crust. This simple step is where the magic begins to build, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned from edge to edge.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet—preferably cast iron—over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering hot. Place the steaks gently into the pan and let them sear undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes per side for a juicy medium-rare finish. If you prefer your steak more or less cooked, adjust the time accordingly. This searing step locks in the juices and creates the signature caramelized crust that Steak Frites is all about.

Step 4: Baste with Butter, Garlic, and Rosemary

With about a minute left on the second side, add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously. This technique infuses the meat with aromatic butter and herbs, making every bite deeply flavorful and irresistibly moist. It’s a simple addition that elevates this Steak Frites Recipe to restaurant-quality status.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked to perfection, remove the steaks and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting is crucial—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. In the meantime, finish off your fries if needed. Then plate your beautiful steak alongside the crispy fries, ready to impress.

How to Serve Steak Frites Recipe

Garnishes

A lightly sprinkled handful of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich steak and golden fries. For a touch of decadence, consider a dollop of garlic aioli or a tangy béarnaise sauce on the side. These garnishes complement the savory flavors without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

While the fries take center stage, a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette can balance the richness of the steak. Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables also pair wonderfully, adding texture and variety to your plate without distracting from the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress guests, try serving the steak frites family-style on a large wooden board with small dipping bowls for sauces. Alternatively, slice the steak thinly across the grain and fan it over the fries for a refined yet rustic look. Presentation is a chance to share how much you love this Steak Frites Recipe, making every meal feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover steak and fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the fries crispy, separate them from the steak if possible, as the moisture from the meat can soften the fries.

Freezing

While steak is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked fries for up to a month. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness. It’s not ideal to freeze the cooked steak, as texture quality may suffer, but raw browned steak can be frozen if prepared carefully.

Reheating

For reheating steak, gently warm it in a pan with a small amount of butter or oil over medium heat to avoid overcooking. Fries reheat best on a baking sheet in a hot oven to bring back their crisp texture, rather than in the microwave which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ribeye is recommended for its marbling and flavor, sirloin, strip steak, or filet mignon can also work brilliantly depending on your preference and budget.

How do I get my fries extra crispy?

Cut your fries evenly, soak them briefly in cold water to remove excess starch, dry thoroughly, and make sure to spread them out in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. A high oven temperature helps too!

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

Any heavy-based skillet will suffice. Cast iron is excellent for even heat and searing, but stainless steel pans can also yield great results if properly preheated.

Is it necessary to baste the steak with butter and herbs?

While not required, basting adds a wonderful depth of flavor and helps keep the steak juicy. The garlic and rosemary-infused butter is what gives this recipe its signature aromatic profile.

Can this recipe be doubled for more people?

Yes! Just be sure not to overcrowd your skillet when searing the steaks. Cook in batches if needed to maintain that desirable sear and avoid steaming the meat.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the simplicity and elegance of this Steak Frites Recipe. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures that feels both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, making this dish is an opportunity to savor classic French-inspired comfort food in your own kitchen. So grab those steaks and potatoes, and treat yourself to one of the most satisfying meals you’ll ever make!