Description

Imagine a dish that exudes rustic charm, evoking cozy bistros in France with every savory bite. The combination of a perfectly seared ribeye steak, richly caramelized French onions, and crispy French fries creates an experience that is truly indulgent. This recipe is not just about preparing food; it’s about allowing the warm aromas to fill your kitchen and sharing an unforgettable meal with family or friends.

Originating from classic French cuisine, the French onion topping adds a unique, sweet depth to the dish, complementing the juicy, marbled steak beautifully. And let's not forget those golden fries—crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are the perfect companion to soak up any leftover juices from that luxurious ribeye. Whether it’s a special occasion, a date night, or a casual dinner at home, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress without feeling overly complicated to prepare. Embrace the art of flavorful cooking and the joy of hearty meals as we dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

• For the Ribeye Steak:
• Two ribeye steaks (approximately 1 ½ inches thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Two tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Two cloves of garlic, smashed
• Two sprigs of fresh thyme
• For the French Onions:
• Two large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• Two tablespoons of unsalted butter
• One tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• One teaspoon of granulated sugar
• Half a cup of beef broth
• One teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the French Fries:
• Four medium russet potatoes, cut into fries
• Two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• *Note: Feel free to experiment with different types of potatoes for fries or mix in herbs like rosemary for added flavor!*

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your French fries, as they take the longest to cook and will be a crunchy side dish to your decadent steak. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it's heating, take those russet potatoes and wash them thoroughly, peeling if you prefer; however, leaving the skin on can add additional texture. Cut them into fry shapes—ensuring they are evenly sized allows for an even bake.

In a large mixing bowl, toss your cut fries with extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to enhance their natural flavor. Spread the fries out on a baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer to promote crispy cooking. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming rather than baking. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and set a timer for 25 to 30 minutes. The key to perfect fries is to flip them halfway through cooking, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden crust on both sides. When they are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Now, let’s embark on the savory journey of caramelizing the onions. Grab a large skillet and melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat with one tablespoon of olive oil—this blend will not only prevent the butter from burning but will also enrich the flavor. Once the butter is frothy, add the thinly sliced onions along with one teaspoon of sugar. The sugar will help expedite the caramelization process by encouraging the natural sugars in the onions to brown beautifully.

Stir the onions occasionally, allowing them to gently soften and caramelize over the next 25 to 30 minutes. Patience is key here; lower heat will give you that deep, rich flavor that you desire. When the onions have transformed into a deep golden-brown hue, stir in half a cup of beef broth and one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Let this simmer for about five minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and coat the onions in a luscious sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and once done, set them aside to keep warm.

Now, turn your attention to the star of the show: the ribeye steaks. Begin by patting the steaks dry with paper towels; this helps achieve that perfect sear while cooking. Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper, allowing the seasoning to lodge into the meat. This step is crucial, as it enhances the flavor throughout the entire steak.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned steaks in the skillet. Let them sear undisturbed for about three to four minutes per side for a medium-rare steak. Use tongs to flip them over carefully, and for an even more flavorful finish, add those smashed garlic cloves and fresh thyme during the last minute of cooking.

During this time, you can baste the steaks with the melted butter and the aromatic herbs using a spoon. This technique infuses the steaks with the rich flavors of garlic and thyme while enhancing their juiciness. After searing, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Letting the steaks rest for five minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy.

With everything prepared, it’s time to assemble your magnificent plate. Place each ribeye steak on a serving platter or individual plates. Generously heap a portion of the caramelized French onions atop each steak, letting those sweet, savory layers cascade down the sides. Nestle the crispy French fries beside the steak for that perfect contrast of textures.

Tips and Conclusion

To elevate this dish even further or to tailor it to preference, consider serving the ribeye with a side of garlic aioli for dipping your fries or adding a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese on top of the steak for a creamy, tangy twist. If you prefer a more robust flavor profile, you can also marinate the steaks beforehand in a blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic for a few hours prior to cooking—this adds another layer of depth to the dish. And if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the deliciousness!
Indulging in a plate of ribeye steak with French onions and French fries is more than just a meal; it's an experience to savor. The rich, buttery flavor of the steak perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the caramelized onions, while the fries provide a satisfying crunch that rounds out this comforting dish beautifully.

This recipe allows you to enjoy a gourmet-style dinner at home, perfect for special occasions or as a treat just because you deserve it! We hope you take pleasure in preparing and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones. If you enjoyed exploring this recipe, we invite you to discover other culinary gems on our site, such as delectable sauces, scrumptious desserts, or classic side dishes that can complement this hearty meal. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventure by whipping up this dish and sharing it with friends or posting it online! Happy cooking and bon appétit!