Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

Name: Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 1 sprig of fresh rosemary; 2 large russet potatoes; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste; Optional: garlic powder or paprika for seasoning

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Kitchen

I love preparing Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites for special evenings at home. There's something undeniably romantic about a perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy frites, especially when shared with someone special. The rich flavor of the steak, complemented by the textures of the frites, brings the dining experience to a whole new level. It’s easy to create, requires minimal ingredients, and every time I prepare it, I feel like I'm elevating the everyday into something magical.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:06:44.156Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how the flavors of the steak and the crunchy frites meld together. I used a cast-iron skillet, which not only cooked the steak perfectly but also gave it a fantastic sear. As I seasoned the meat, I made sure to let it rest, which resulted in a juicy, tender steak bursting with flavor.

After perfecting my technique, I realized the importance of high-quality ingredients. Using fresh, hand-cut potatoes for the frites makes all the difference. I double fry them to achieve that crispy exterior and fluffy interior that you dream of when biting into a frite. Trust me, the effort is well worth it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly seared steak with a rich umami flavor
Crispy golden frites that are addictive
Creates a romantic atmosphere for any dinner

      

Preparing the Perfect Frites

When making crispy frites, the type of potato you choose is crucial. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which leads to a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. For the best results, cut the potatoes into even strips, about a quarter-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly. Soaking them in cold water before frying removes excess starch and helps achieve that desired crispiness.

Once you've soaked and drained your potatoes, it's time to heat the oil. I recommend using a deep-frying thermometer to achieve a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for frying. If the oil isn't hot enough, the frites will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil's temperature, cooking each batch for roughly 5-6 minutes or until they are golden brown. The frites should sizzle vigorously when they hit the oil.

Mastering the Steak

Achieving that perfectly seared steak requires more than just heat; timing is everything. After seasoning the steaks with salt and pepper, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step ensures even cooking. When placing the steaks in the hot skillet, listen for that satisfying sizzle which indicates a good sear. Aim for a temperature of about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Use an instant-read thermometer to check, inserting it into the thickest part of the steak.

Don't forget to include fats and aromatics like rosemary and crushed garlic in the skillet while searing. This not only enhances the flavor but also imparts delicious, fragrant notes to the steak. Baste the steak with the hot oil using a spoon to enhance the crust. After cooking, let the steak rest; this is where the magic happens as the juices redistribute, preventing a dry bite when you slice it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites:

For the Steak

2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 sprig of fresh rosemary

For the Frites

2 large russet potatoes
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt to taste
Optional: garlic powder or paprika for seasoning

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and cut the russet potatoes into thin strips to make frites. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry with a towel.

Fry the Frites

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat. Fry the potatoes in batches until they are golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on a paper towel, then season with salt.

Sear the Steak

While the frites are frying, season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add the steaks along with the crushed garlic and rosemary.

Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

Rest the Steak

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Serve

Slice the steak against the grain and serve alongside the crispy frites. Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Now that everything is ready, sit down and enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use high-quality steak and fresh potatoes. Don't skip the resting time for the steak
this allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Candlelit Dinner, consider pairing the steak frites with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette balances the richness of the steak and frites beautifully. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley over the tart green salad for an added pop of color and freshness.

For a more luxurious touch, try serving the steak with a homemade sauce, such as a red wine reduction or a chimichurri. These sauces can enhance the flavor of the steak, bringing a contrasting taste and texture that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the sliced steak and frites separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak can usually last for up to 3 days, while frites are best consumed promptly to maintain their crispiness. To reheat the steak, place it in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through; this helps retain moisture.

As for the frites, reheating them can be tricky if you want to maintain their crunch. Try spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method will revive their crispiness without making them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I know when my steak is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer; 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

→ Can I make the frites in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying is a great alternative! Cook them at 375°F for about 20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables work well to balance the richness of the steak and frites.

→ Can I prepare the frites ahead of time?

You can cut and soak the potatoes in advance. Just fry them before serving for the best texture.