Beef Steak Frites Recipe | Crispy Fries & Juicy Steak with Sauce
1. Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game and treat yourself to something truly indulgent, Beef Steak Frites is the perfect choice. This classic French dish combines two of the best comfort foods: a perfectly seared beef steak and crispy, golden fries. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving a hearty, flavorful meal, Beef Steak Frites will surely impress.
What makes this dish stand out is the balance of rich flavors. The steak is juicy and tender, with a satisfying crust, while the fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Add a decadent sauce like béarnaise or garlic butter, and you’ve got a truly memorable meal. Best of all, it’s a dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home—no need to go to a restaurant for this gourmet experience.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make Beef Steak Frites from scratch. You’ll learn how to perfectly cook the steak, make crispy fries, and prepare a simple yet delicious sauce to tie everything together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will make sure you get it just right.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
To make Beef Steak Frites, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Let’s break down each one and explore some options for substitutions or dietary preferences:
For the Beef Steak:
- Beef Steak (2 pieces, about 8 oz each): The star of the dish! For the best results, go for ribeye or sirloin. These cuts are known for their tenderness and flavor, perfect for searing. If you’re looking for a leaner cut, you can substitute with flank steak or tenderloin.
- Olive Oil (for searing): You’ll need a high-smoke point oil like olive oil or canola oil to sear the steak to perfection. Olive oil also adds a bit of flavor, but feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Butter (for finishing): Butter adds richness and helps the steak achieve a gorgeous golden crust. For a richer flavor, you can also use ghee or clarified butter.
- Fresh Thyme & Garlic: These ingredients are perfect for infusing your steak with aromatic flavors as it sears. You can use fresh or dried thyme, and whole garlic cloves for that lovely fragrance. For a twist, try adding rosemary or bay leaves.
For the Fries:
- Russet Potatoes (2 large): Russet potatoes are the best choice for making crispy fries because they have a high starch content. If you prefer a healthier option, you can also use sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): You’ll need enough oil to deep fry the fries or sauté them in a large skillet. Canola oil works well, but you can use any oil with a high smoke point.
- Salt (for seasoning): Kosher salt is ideal for fries, as its larger crystals make it easier to sprinkle evenly. Feel free to add any other spices, like garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder, to give your fries a unique flavor.
For the Sauce (optional, but recommended!):
- Butter (1/4 cup): Butter is the base for this flavorful sauce, adding richness and creaminess.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously smooth. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Fresh garlic adds a wonderful, savory punch to the sauce. You can also use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
- Lemon Juice (1 tsp): A touch of acidity helps balance out the richness of the butter and cream. For an extra zing, add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a burst of color and a subtle, herbal flavor.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve broken down the ingredients, let’s get started on making Beef Steak Frites! Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Start by seasoning both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can add some garlic powder and fresh thyme to enhance the flavor.
- Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, place the steaks in the pan. Let them sear without moving them for about 4 minutes on one side, until a nice crust forms.
- Flip the steaks over and add a tbsp of butter, a few garlic cloves, and a sprig of fresh thyme to the pan. Use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter. Cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak cooked more.
- Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and tender.
Step 2: Make the Fries
- While the steak rests, prepare the fries. Wash and peel the Russet potatoes (or sweet potatoes) and cut them into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to cover the fries. Once the oil is hot (about 375°F), carefully add the potato strips in batches, frying them for about 4-5 minutes per batch until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Immediately sprinkle with salt and any other seasonings you prefer.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet you used for the steak, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add 1 tsp of lemon juice and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir to combine. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it cook for a bit longer.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Plate your steaks and top with a generous amount of garlic cream sauce. Serve the crispy fries on the side.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
4. Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Steak Frites:
- Choose the Right Steak: For the best results, go with cuts like ribeye or sirloin. These are perfect for pan-searing and give the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the steaks, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures that the steak sears evenly and crisps up beautifully.
- Rest the Steak: Always let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Variations:
- Make It Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the steak rub to give it a little kick.
- Vegan Version: Swap the steak for tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegan take on steak frites. Use plant-based butter for the sauce.
- Cheesy Fries: Top your fries with melted cheese for a cheesy twist on the classic dish. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.
5. Serving Suggestions
Beef Steak Frites is a hearty dish, so serve it with simple sides to balance out the richness:
- Salads: A light arugula salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette is a perfect side.
- Bread: Crusty French bread is great for sopping up any extra sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: Pair your meal with some steamed green beans or broccoli to add a burst of color and nutrients.
Pair this dish with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the rich flavors of the steak.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Leftover Beef Steak Frites can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and fries separate in airtight containers.
- Reheating: To reheat the steak, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. For the fries, reheat them in the oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
- Freezing: Both the steak and fries can be frozen. Wrap the steak tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. The fries can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a freezer bag.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: You can season the steak and cut the potatoes a day ahead to save time when cooking.
- For Extra Crispiness: Double fry the fries for an even crunchier texture.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 |
| Fat | 32g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Calcium | 60mg |
| Iron | 4mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: French
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Tenderize the steak and season.
- Set up the breading station.
- Coat and fry the steaks.
- Make the gravy.
- Serve the steak and fries with gravy.
Notes:
- Make sure the steak rests before serving.
- Double fry the fries for extra crispiness.
Nutrition:
Calories: 650 | Fat: 32g | Carbs: 52g | Protein: 35g
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
Beef Steak Frites is the perfect dish to indulge in when you’re craving a comforting, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a gourmet dinner at home, this recipe delivers flavor and texture in every bite. Let me know how your Beef Steak Frites turns out in the comments below—I can’t wait to hear about it! Happy cooking!