Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

I love making Steak Frites for a romantic dinner; it’s a dish that feels elegant yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of a juicy, perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy, golden fries creates a satisfying meal that always impresses. There's something special about sharing this meal by candlelight, and the flavors are perfect together. I enjoy experimenting with different seasonings on the steak and trying out various dipping sauces for the fries to make it feel even more special.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:18:40.919Z

During one memorable evening, I decided to treat my partner to a cozy candlelit dinner at home, and Steak Frites was the star of the show. I marinated the steak for a few hours prior, which intensified its flavor and tenderness. The fries were baked to keep them light yet crispy, which complemented the richness of the steak perfectly.

Using a cast-iron skillet to cook the steak gave it a beautiful crust while keeping it juicy on the inside. I also discovered that finishing the steak with a pat of herb butter really elevates the dish, adding a lush, aromatic finish that we both loved. This combination has become a go-to for our special occasions.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy steak cooked to your preferred doneness
Crispy, golden fries for the perfect crunch
An elegant meal that can be prepared at home

      

Mastering the Perfect Fries

Achieving perfectly crispy fries is all about preparation and technique. Start with high-starch russet potatoes, which fry best due to their low moisture content. Soaking the cut fries in cold water not only helps to remove excess starch but also enhances their ability to crisp up in the oven. Patting them dry thoroughly before coating with olive oil is essential; moisture will prevent a crisp texture.

Baking at a high temperature is crucial. At 425°F (220°C), the fries develop a golden-brown color and a crunchy exterior while remaining fluffy on the inside. Make sure to spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding will create steam and lead to soggy results. Flipping them halfway through baking ensures even browning.

Steak Cooking Techniques

For a perfectly cooked steak, it's essential to understand your heat levels. Preheating the cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat allows for a good sear, which locks in juices and adds flavor. When adding the steaks to the pan, listen for a sizzle—this indicates the right temperature. If they stick when flipping, they're not ready yet; patience is key for a beautiful crust.

Using an instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking the steak to your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Resting the steak for 5 minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. A pat of herb butter adds richness; try experimenting with different herbs for unique flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Steak Frites

For the Steak

2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons herb butter (optional)

For the Fries

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into fries. Soak the cut fries in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry.

Toss fries in olive oil and season with salt, then spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, flipping halfway through.

Cook the Steak

While the fries are baking, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to the skillet, then place the steaks in the hot pan.

Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, basting with pan juices. If desired, add a tablespoon of herb butter during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.

Serve

Once the steaks are cooked to your liking, let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the steaks alongside the crispy fries, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your candlelit dinner with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pair the dish with a nice red wine for a complete experience!

Pro Tips

For a flavorful steak, consider marinating it ahead of time in your choice of herbs and spices. For extra crispy fries, ensure they are thoroughly dried after soaking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ribeye on hand, consider using strip steaks or sirloin for a leaner option. Both cuts will still provide great flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. For those who prefer a leaner steak, tender cuts like filet mignon could work as well, though they may cook faster due to their lower fat content.

As for the fries, if russet potatoes are unavailable, Yukon Golds can be a suitable alternative. They yield a slightly creamier texture, which can be delicious when prepared correctly. For a twist, try sweet potatoes for a healthier version of fries, adjusting the cooking time slightly since they may require a bit longer to become crispy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Pair your steak frites with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil complements the richness of the steak beautifully. Alternatively, stirring in some blue cheese crumbles enhances the flavor profile, balancing the savory notes of the dish.

For dipping sauces, consider creating a herb aioli or garlic mayonnaise to elevate the experience. You can also serve a classic Béarnaise sauce or chimichurri for added flavor. Both sauces are easy to prepare and can be made in advance, providing a deliciously unique twist to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin or filet mignon, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ How do I make my fries crispier?

Soak the fries in cold water and ensure they are well-dried before tossing them in oil and baking.

→ What can I serve with Steak Frites?

A simple green salad or a side of sautéed vegetables complement the dish well.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

The fries can be prepared in advance and reheated, but it's best to cook the steak fresh right before serving.

Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

Prep Time15.0

Cooking Duration20.0

Overall Time35.0

Created by: Lena

Recipe Type: Hearty Food Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 2.0

What You'll Need

For the Steak

2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons herb butter (optional)

For the Fries

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into fries. Soak the cut fries in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry. Toss fries in olive oil and season with salt, then spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, flipping halfway through.

Step 02

While the fries are baking, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to the skillet, then place the steaks in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, basting with pan juices. If desired, add a tablespoon of herb butter during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.

Step 03

Extra Tips

For a flavorful steak, consider marinating it ahead of time in your choice of herbs and spices. For extra crispy fries, ensure they are thoroughly dried after soaking.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories: 700 kcal
Total Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 40g