Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

Name: Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks (1 inch thick); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish; 3 large russet potatoes; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste; Paprika (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes

When I think of the perfect romantic dinner, Steak Frites always comes to mind. There's something incredibly satisfying about a succulent steak paired with crispy, golden fries. I crafted this recipe to recreate that restaurant-quality experience at home, ensuring each bite is as flavorful as it is comforting. The combination of a perfectly seared steak and the light, fluffy texture of the fries makes for a delightful evening meal that you can share with someone special. Let's dive into creating this delicious dish together.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:26:43.890Z

I've always believed that a well-cooked steak can make any night special. During one of our candlelit dinners, I experimented with various cooking techniques to achieve the perfect sear. After several attempts, I discovered that a combination of high heat and letting the meat rest leads to a tender, juicy steak bursting with flavor.

To elevate the meal, I served it with homemade fries seasoned to perfection. The contrast of the crispy crust with the soft interior transformed the dish into a complete feast for the senses, making it ideal for sharing with someone special.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy, perfectly seasoned steak that melts in your mouth
Crispy homemade fries that are irresistible
Ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion

      

Mastering the Perfect Steak

To achieve steakhouse caliber results at home, start with high-quality ribeye steaks that are well-marbled. The marbling, or fat within the meat, is crucial as it enhances flavor and tenderness during cooking. When seasoning, don’t be shy with the salt; a generous application helps to create a savory crust. Letting the steaks rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing also allows for more even cooking, ensuring tenderness throughout.

The key to a perfect sear lies in properly preheating your skillet. Aim for a high heat setting to get the oil shimmering before adding the steaks; this is what creates that desirable caramelized crust. Use a cast iron skillet for the best heat retention, which aids in achieving both a golden exterior and juicy interior. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the temperature to drop and lead to steaming rather than searing.

Fry Techniques for Crisp Perfection

Getting homemade fries just right is all in the technique. After cutting your potatoes, soaking them in water is essential to remove excess starch, which would otherwise cause the fries to stick together. Rinsing and drying them thoroughly ensures they fry up crispy rather than soggy. It’s a small yet vital step that makes a significant difference in the texture of the fries.

When frying, maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) is crucial. If it’s too low, the fries will absorb excess oil and feel greasy. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can cool the oil down too much. The goal is to fry them until they are golden brown, with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior – usually about 5-7 minutes per batch depending on thickness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal!

For the Steak

2 ribeye steaks (1 inch thick)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish

For the Fries

3 large russet potatoes
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste
Paprika (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Steak Frites!

Prepare the Fries

Peel and cut the russet potatoes into thin strips. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then soak them in water for 30 minutes. Drain and pat them dry.

Cook the Fries

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the potatoes in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and paprika.

Sear the Steak

Heat a skillet over high heat and add olive oil. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Rest and Serve

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve alongside the fries. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Enjoy your delicious candlelit dinner!

Pro Tips

For the best steak, let it come to room temperature before cooking and don't forget to rest it after searing for maximum juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your steak frites with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast to the richness of the steak and fries. The peppery arugula complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the salad can add a fun tang and sweet dimension to each bite.

For dipping, consider making a garlic aioli or a herb-infused mayonnaise, which adds a creamy texture and additional flavor to the crispy fries. Simply combine mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a delicious finishing touch.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water and covering it to maintain moisture. This method prevents the steak from drying out while ensuring that it heats evenly.

Fries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can still revive their crunch. Instead of the microwave, which will make them soggy, reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. This technique restores their wonderful texture without losing any flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of steak is best for this recipe?

Ribeye is highly recommended for its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness.

→ How do I ensure my fries are crispy?

Soaking the potatoes before frying helps remove excess starch, leading to a crispier fry.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While the fries are best fresh, you can pre-cook the steaks and reheat them before serving.

→ What can I serve with Steak Frites?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments to the dish.