Steak Frites with Herb Butter

DifficultyBeginner

Juicy pan-seared steak served with crispy golden fries and aromatic herb butter. This classic steak frites recipe is perfect for Valentine’s Day, date nights, or an elegant bistro-style dinner at home.

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Yields2 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time25 minsTotal Time45 mins
Steak
 2 ribeye, sirloin, or entrecôte steaks (250–300 g / 9–10 oz each)
 Salt, to taste
 Freshly ground black pepper
 1 tbsp olive oil
 1 tbsp butter
 1 clove garlic, lightly crushed
 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary
Fries (Frites)
 1 ¼ lbs potatoes (Russet or Maris Piper)
 Vegetable oil, for frying or oven-baking
 Salt, to taste
Herb Butter
  cup unsalted butter, softened
 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
 1 tsp fresh chives, finely chopped
 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
 1 tsp lemon zest
 Salt and black pepper, to taste
Prepare the Herb Butter
1

In a bowl, mix softened butter with parsley, chives, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Shape into a small log using parchment paper and refrigerate until firm.

Make the Fries
2

Peel (optional) and cut potatoes into thin sticks.

Rinse in cold water and pat dry thoroughly.

Fry in 170°C / 340°F oil for 5–6 minutes until tender but pale. Remove and rest.

Increase oil temperature to 190°C / 375°F and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.

Drain and season with salt.

(Alternatively: oven-bake at 220°C / 430°F with oil for 30–35 minutes.)

Cook the Steak
3

Remove steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.

Season generously with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a heavy pan over high heat.

Sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust to preference).

Add butter, garlic, and herbs; baste for 1 minute.

Remove steaks and rest for 5 minutes.

Serve
4

Plate steaks with hot fries.

Top each steak with a slice of herb butter and serve immediately.

Pairing Suggestions
5

Wine

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Malbec

  • Bordeaux blend

  • Pinot Noir

Sauces (Optional)

  • Béarnaise

  • Peppercorn sauce

  • Dijon mustard

Sides

  • Simple green salad

  • Roasted asparagus

  • Sautéed mushrooms

Tips & Notes
6
  • Let steak rest for maximum juiciness

  • High heat = great crust

  • Herb butter can be made ahead

  • Double-frying is key for crispy fries

  • A timeless Valentine’s main: bold, indulgent, and irresistible

Ingredients

Steak
 2 ribeye, sirloin, or entrecôte steaks (250–300 g / 9–10 oz each)
 Salt, to taste
 Freshly ground black pepper
 1 tbsp olive oil
 1 tbsp butter
 1 clove garlic, lightly crushed
 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary
Fries (Frites)
 1 ¼ lbs potatoes (Russet or Maris Piper)
 Vegetable oil, for frying or oven-baking
 Salt, to taste
Herb Butter
  cup unsalted butter, softened
 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
 1 tsp fresh chives, finely chopped
 1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
 1 tsp lemon zest
 Salt and black pepper, to taste
Steak Frites with Herb Butter