Ribeye Steak with French Onions and French Fries – A Classic Gourmet Feast
Why Ribeye Steak Never Goes Out of Style
There’s something timeless about a well-cooked ribeye steak. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, it’s the crown jewel of any steak lover’s menu. Pair that with caramelized French onions and crispy homemade French fries, and you have a meal that screams indulgence.
This recipe takes steak night to the next level by combining classic techniques with a touch of French-inspired sophistication. The buttery onions add a sweet-savory richness to the robust flavor of the ribeye, while the fries provide the perfect crispy contrast.
The Inspiration Behind This Recipe
Steak frites, a beloved dish in French cuisine, inspired this recipe. Known for its simplicity and elegance, steak frites typically features a perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy fries. Adding caramelized onions to this classic pairing brings an extra layer of decadence, transforming the dish into a true comfort meal.
This recipe is ideal for special occasions, date nights, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: The ribeye’s juicy flavor, complemented by buttery onions and crisp fries, is pure indulgence.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: With a few simple techniques, you can recreate this gourmet meal without leaving your kitchen.
- Customizable: Adjust the steak’s doneness, add a hint of garlic to the fries, or swap white wine for a splash of red.
How to Make Ribeye Steak with French Onions and French Fries
Ingredients
For the Ribeye Steak:
- 2 ribeye steaks (1-inch thick, 10–12 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the French Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
For the French Fries:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the French Fries:
- Peel and slice the russet potatoes into classic fry shapes.
- Soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and drain.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Sprinkle with salt while warm.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for 20–25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth and white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the Ribeye Steaks:
- Pat the steaks dry and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust for your preferred doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme/rosemary. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks for a rich, flavorful finish.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Plate the ribeye steaks and top with caramelized onions. Serve alongside a generous portion of French fries. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Ribeye Steak with French Onions and Fries
- Steak Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Crispy Fries Secret: Double-frying is the key to achieving perfectly crispy fries.
- Make-Ahead Onions: The caramelized onions can be made a day in advance and reheated for convenience.
- Alternative Frying Method: For a healthier twist, bake the fries in the oven or use an air fryer.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish combines the best of comfort and elegance. The tender ribeye steak, buttery caramelized onions, and perfectly seasoned fries come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Pair it with a glass of red wine or an ice-cold beer, and you have a classic steakhouse experience right in your own kitchen.