Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites

Name: Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ribeye steaks; 500g potatoes (for fries); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

I always believe that a perfect dinner doesn't just involve great food but also the ambiance. For our special evenings, I love preparing 'Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites.' This recipe combines succulent steak with crispy fries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. A hint of garlic and rosemary elevates the dish, while a side of homemade aioli takes the meal to new heights. Join me in crafting this unforgettable dining experience that’s ideal for impressing that special someone or celebrating a milestone.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:53:31.040Z

When I first made this meal for a special date night, I was nervous about getting everything just right. The combination of a perfectly cooked steak and homemade fries not only delighted our palates but set the romantic mood instantly. I always recommend using a high-quality cut of meat for the best results, as the flavor truly shines through with simple seasonings.

An essential tip I’ve learned over the years is to let the steak rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and full of flavor. The addition of crispy, herbed fries, paired with a garlicky aioli, complements the steak and enhances the entire experience.

        Why you'll love this recipe
        Perfectly seared steak that melts in your mouth
Crispy fries seasoned to perfection
Elegant presentation ideal for a romantic dinner

      

Perfecting the Fries

Achieving the perfect fry is all about the preparation and cooking method. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water is crucial to remove excess starch, which can lead to soggy fries. I recommend soaking for at least 20 minutes; this step makes a noticeable difference in texture. Once soaked, drying them thoroughly is critical, as moisture can cause the oil to spatter when frying. Pat them down with a kitchen towel before they hit the hot oil.

When frying, maintaining the oil temperature at 180°C (350°F) is key for crispy fries. If you notice the fries are browning too quickly or burning, it might mean the oil is too hot; the ideal frying time is around 5-6 minutes per batch. You want each fry to develop a golden color and have a slightly crisp exterior without any greasy residue. Using a thermometer can help keep the temperature consistent.

Elevating Your Steak

The ribeye steak is rich in marbling, which adds incredible flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. A key step is to let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking; this ensures even cooking throughout. Ideally, they should sit out for about 30 minutes before hitting the skillet. This way, you can achieve that beautiful sear without the center being undercooked.

When seasoning your steaks, don't hold back on salt and pepper; the exterior needs to be well-seasoned to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. During the last minute of cooking, adding garlic and rosemary infuses the steaks with aromatic flavors. For a great sear, make sure your skillet is preheated until it's very hot; you should hear a satisfying sizzle as the steak makes contact with the pan.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

For the Steak and Frites

2 ribeye steaks
500g potatoes (for fries)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create an unforgettable meal:

Prep the Ingredients

Start by washing and cutting the potatoes into thin fries. Soak them in cold water for 20 minutes to remove excess starch, which will help in achieving that perfect crispiness.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Fries

Heat a pot of oil to 180°C (350°F). Drain the fries and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Carefully add them to the hot oil in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy, around 5-6 minutes per batch.

Remove and drain on paper towels. Season with salt and rosemary.

Cook the Steak

Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, cook the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Add the minced garlic and rosemary during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.

Let it Rest

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain the juices.

Serve

Plate the steak alongside the crispy fries and a side of aioli. Enjoy your deliciously elegant Candlelit Dinner Steak Frites!

Don't forget to pair this dish with your favorite wine for a complete experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the steaks for a few hours in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and rosemary before cooking. Also, consider adding some Parmesan to the fries right after frying for an elevated touch.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, the fries don't reheat as well as the steak, but you can still save them! For best results, store the fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, use an oven instead of a microwave to regain some crispiness; heat them at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes or until hot and crispy again.

Steak leftovers can be refrigerated too, but it's best to store them in a separate container to keep them from drying out. When reheating, aim for low heat in a skillet or the oven to avoid overcooking. You can slice the steak into strips, making it perfect for adding to salads or sandwiches.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe shines with ribeye, feel free to swap in other cuts like sirloin or filet mignon, depending on your preferences or budget. Each cut will provide a different flavor profile and tenderness, so experiment to find your favorite. Additionally, you could try sweet potatoes for a unique spin on the fries; they require the same soaking and frying technique for the best texture.

For an impressive presentation, consider garnishing your finished dish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt. Pair with a simple arugula salad or steamed asparagus for a light contrast to the richness of the steak and fries. A good red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the meal beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While ribeye is flavorful, cuts like sirloin or filet mignon work well too.

→ Is it necessary to soak the fries?

Soaking the fries helps remove excess starch, making them crispier once fried.

→ Can I make the aioli in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the aioli a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.

→ What can I serve with steak frites?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes to balance the meal.