Steak and fries. It’s a simple yet universally adored combination. The first time I tried steak frites, it was at a cozy European-inspired bistro. I remember being blown away by the pairing of perfectly seared steak with crispy, golden fries . And the kicker? The luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth lemon herb butter drizzled on top.
It added so much flavor and elegance to a classic dish. I knew right then that I needed to recreate it in my kitchen. This recipe has become my go-to for an indulgent dinner, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at steak or fries the same way again.
Why You’ll Love Steak Frites?
- Crispy & Juicy Perfection: The combination of golden, crispy fries and a tender, butter-basted steak is simply irresistible.
- Restaurant-Worthy at Home: This dish delivers a bistro-style experience without the need for a reservation.
- Easy Yet Elegant: Whether it’s a date night, family dinner, or just treating yourself, it’s effortless yet impressive.
- Customizable & Flavorful: Pair it with herb butter, sauces, or different seasonings to match your taste.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: ~27 minutes
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
- Large frying pan or cast iron skillet
- Stand mixer or hand mixer (for the herb butter)
- Deep fryer or a large pot for oil
- Tongs for flipping steak
- Knife and cutting board
- Parchment paper for resting fries
Ingredients List
To make this bistro-worthy meal, you’ll need the following ingredients for the steak, fries, and herb butter:
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh rosemary
- Fresh thyme
- Green onions
- Garlic cloves
- Lemon zest and juice
- Coarse salt
- Black pepper
- 3 russet potatoes
- Coarse salt (to taste)
- New York strip steaks
- Olive oil
- Fresh thyme
- Garlic cloves
- Unsalted butter
- Coarse salt
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide to Steak Frites
1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Butter
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, whip softened butter on high speed until light and fluffy (about 5–7 minutes). Add rosemary, thyme, green onions, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated. Set aside or refrigerate for later use .
2. Make Perfect Fries
Place sliced potatoes into a container of cold water. Stir them lightly to remove excess starch. Drain and rinse thoroughly. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 300°F. Fry the potatoes for 3 minutes until lightly cooked but pale. Rest on parchment-lined trays. When ready to serve, increase oil to 350°F and fry again for 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Toss with salt.
3. Sear the Steak
Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in the frying pan on high. When the oil smokes, reduce to medium and sear for 2–3 minutes. Flip the steak, then add thyme, garlic, and butter. Spoon the melted butter over the steak as it cooks (2–4 minutes). Rest for 3–4 minutes .
4. Bring It All Together
Plate your steak beside a pile of crispy fries . Add a generous dollop of herb butter on the steak and garnish with sea salt .
Serving Ideas
While steak frites is amazing on its own, you can elevate the dining experience with a few accompaniments and drink pairings:
- Fresh Side Salad: Arugula or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette.
- Sauteed Vegetables: Try asparagus or green beans with garlic and olive oil.
- Wine Pairing: A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or earthy Pinot Noir.
- Sauce Options: Bèarnaise or peppercorn sauce for dipping.
- Crunchy Bread: French baguette slices to mop up the buttery goodness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Herb Butter in Advance: Make ahead and freeze extra for future use.
- Double-Fry Method: Crucial for extra crispy fries.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Let It Rest: Rest your steak to lock in the juices.
- Fresh Thyme FTW: Adds aroma and elevates pan flavor.
Nutritional Insights
Per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 528 kcal
- Carbs: 33g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 34g
- Sodium: 1227mg
Adjusting ingredients will change the values.
Proper Storage and Leftovers
- For the Fries: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes in the oven.
- For the Steak: Store for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot pan with herb butter.
- Herb Butter Longevity: Freeze for up to 3 months. Use on seafood, vegetables, or bread.
Steak Frites
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh rosemary
- Fresh thyme
- Green onions
- Garlic cloves
- Lemon zest and juice
- Coarse salt
- Black pepper
- 3 russet potatoes
- Coarse salt to taste
- New York strip steaks
- Olive oil
- Fresh thyme
- Garlic cloves
- Unsalted butter
- Coarse salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, whip softened butter on high speed until light and fluffy (about 5–7 minutes). Add rosemary, thyme, green onions, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated. Set aside or refrigerate for later use .
- Place sliced potatoes into a container of cold water. Stir them lightly to remove excess starch. Drain and rinse thoroughly. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 300°F. Fry the potatoes for 3 minutes until lightly cooked but pale. Rest on parchment-lined trays. When ready to serve, increase oil to 350°F and fry again for 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Toss with salt.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in the frying pan on high. When the oil smokes, reduce to medium and sear for 2–3 minutes. Flip the steak, then add thyme, garlic, and butter. Spoon the melted butter over the steak as it cooks (2–4 minutes). Rest for 3–4 minutes .
- Plate your steak beside a pile of crispy fries . Add a generous dollop of herb butter on the steak and garnish with sea salt .
Notes
- Fresh Side Salad: Arugula or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette.
- Sauteed Vegetables: Try asparagus or green beans with garlic and olive oil.
- Wine Pairing: A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or earthy Pinot Noir.
- Sauce Options: Bèarnaise or peppercorn sauce for dipping.
- Crunchy Bread: French baguette slices to mop up the buttery goodness.
