Classic Steak Frites with Herb Butter

Craving a dish that embodies the essence of a French bistro? Look no further! This Classic Steak Frites with Herb Butter brings together a juicy steak and crispy fries in a way that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is all about indulgence without the fuss.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked steak, its flavors elevated by a dollop of rich herb butter melting on top, while crispy golden fries provide the ideal crunch on the side. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple yet luxurious ingredients.

A Perfectly Balanced Meal

The allure of steak frites lies in its simplicity and indulgence. This dish pairs a succulent steak with crispy, golden fries, creating a satisfying balance that appeals to many palates. The herb butter, rich and aromatic, enhances the steak’s natural flavors, making it a centerpiece worth savoring.

Each component plays its part beautifully. The steak, whether ribeye or sirloin, is seasoned to perfection and cooked to your desired doneness, ensuring a tender bite every time. The fries, whether frozen or homemade, provide that essential crunch, making each mouthful an exciting contrast. Together, they create a meal that feels both comforting and luxurious.

Preparing the Steak

Starting with the steak, it’s essential to bring it to room temperature before cooking. This simple step ensures even cooking and helps achieve a perfect sear. Generously seasoning both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper prepares the steak for its time in the skillet, where the magic happens.

Using a hot pan is critical to developing that delicious crust. Searing the steak for a few minutes on each side locks in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. It’s important to let the steak rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

Making the Fries

Crispy fries are an essential partner to the steak, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite. Whether you opt for frozen or homemade, the cooking method is key. For frozen fries, following the package instructions usually yields excellent results.

If you choose to make fries from scratch, soaking the cut potatoes in water before frying helps remove excess starch. This simple trick contributes to a crisper fry. After frying, ensuring that they are drained properly and seasoned while hot makes all the difference.

Herb Butter: The Finishing Touch

The herb butter is where creativity can shine. By mixing softened butter with fresh parsley, thyme, and a touch of garlic, you create a rich topping that elevates the steak. This combination not only adds flavor but also a beautiful visual appeal when it melts into the warm steak.

Applying the herb butter right after cooking allows it to melt perfectly over the steak, creating a luxurious sauce that enhances every bite. A dollop on top transforms the dish from simple to sublime.

Presentation Matters

Presentation plays a vital role in the dining experience. A beautifully plated dish of steak frites, garnished with fresh herbs and served with a lemon wedge, creates an inviting aesthetic. Setting the scene on a rustic wooden table adds to the cozy bistro feel.

Arranging the fries artfully alongside the steak not only elevates the dish visually but also invites guests to dig in. The bright colors of the herbs and lemon provide a pleasant contrast to the rich tones of the steak and fries, making the whole dish an enticing visual feast.

Enjoying the Experience

This classic dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration. The combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable meal that encourages sharing and enjoyment.

Pairing steak frites with a glass of red wine can enhance the flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Each bite promises satisfaction, making it a dish to remember and replicate time and again.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cups frozen or homemade French fries
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prep the Steak: Remove steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Fries: If using frozen fries, cook according to package instructions until golden and crispy. If making homemade fries, cut potatoes into fries, soak in water for 30 minutes, pat dry, and fry in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
3. Sear the Steaks: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until a crust forms, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached.
4. Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes. Top each steak with a generous spoonful of herb butter. Serve with fries and lemon wedges on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 2 servings
• Calories: 750kcal
• Fat: 47g
• Protein: 50g
• Carbohydrates: 34g