Oh, Valentine’s Day! A day for love, romance, and yes, delicious food! I can happily say that nothing says “I adore you” more than a perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy frites and slathered in velvety garlic butter. Trust me, it’s one of my absolute favorite dinners to prepare for that special someone (or just for myself if I’m feeling fancy!).
I have a memory of the first time I made this dish. It was for a Valentine’s dinner with my partner, and I was ridiculously nervous. I prepped everything in advance, made sure that kitchen was spotless, and had a lovely bottle of red wine ready to go. Imagine my joy when the aroma filled the room, and my partner’s eyes lit up as we dug into the meal! That evening is now a cherished memory, and guess what? The steak frites became a staple in our meal rotations! So, let’s get this party started and make this romantic meal together!
What’s in Valentine’s Day Steak Frites with Garlic Butter?
Steak: I love using ribeye or sirloin for this dish. They have the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. You want that marbling for juiciness! I usually go for grass-fed beef if I can find it, as it tends to be more flavorful.
Potatoes: Nothing beats classic russet potatoes for that crunch and fluff! They make the best frites—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
Garlic: This is the star of our garlic butter—freshly minced, of course! It adds an incredible aroma and flavor to the butter.
Butter: I always use unsalted butter to have better control over the seasoning. Add in a bit of richness to the garlic, and you’re in for a treat!
Fresh Herbs: I adore tossing in some chopped parsley at the end. It brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color!
Salt and Pepper: The essentials! Always use coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for maximum flavor.
Is Valentine’s Day Steak Frites with Garlic Butter Good for You?
Absolutely! But, like most things, moderation is key.
Steak: Rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, steak can be part of a balanced diet. Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially on Valentine’s Day, when you might be indulging a bit!
Potatoes: A great source of carbohydrates and fiber, they provide energy and make the meal feel hearty. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try swapping half the potatoes for sweet potatoes.
Garlic: This little powerhouse brings antioxidants and can help support heart health. Plus, it adds amazing flavor without extra calories!
So yes, while it may not be a “diet” meal by any means, every now and then, a romantic indulgence is absolutely worth it!
Ingredients List
– 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 1-inch thick, serves 2)
– 2 large russet potatoes (for frites)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for serving)
– 4 cloves of fresh garlic (minced)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Valentine’s Day Steak Frites with Garlic Butter?
1. **Prepare the Frites:** Begin by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick). Place them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. **Soak the Potatoes:** After soaking, drain and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture!
3. **Start Frying:** In a heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer, heat oil to 325°F (165°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until they are tender (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from oil and let them drain on paper towels.
4. **Season the Steaks:** While the frites are cooling, season your steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
5. **Sear the Steaks:** In a cast-iron skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the steaks. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust based on your doneness preference!
6. **Make the Garlic Butter:** While the steaks are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
7. **Combine:** Once the steaks are done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This is an excellent time to crank up your oven to 400°F (200°C) and finish off those frites. Place the frites in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.
8. **Serve:** Once everything is done, place the steaks on plates, drizzle garlic butter over the top, and don’t forget to add a generous portion of frites alongside them. Sprinkle chopped parsley over everything for that final touch!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips: A Dish to Remember!
– You could take this dish over the top by pairing it with a side salad or some roasted veggies. It adds a nice freshness that balances out the richness of the meal.
– For a little extra indulgence, you could make a garlic-herb compound butter ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge. Just dollop it on the steak right before serving!
– This meal is perfect with a bold glass of red wine. A good Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs perfectly with the flavors of the steak.
Cooking this Valentine’s Day Steak Frites with Garlic Butter isn’t just about the meal; it’s about the experience. I thoroughly encourage you to invite someone special into your kitchen—or simply treat yourself to a lovely dinner. I promise it’ll create a beautiful memory that you’ll cherish! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out!