Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This helps remove excess starch and will result in crispier fries. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- First Fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for about 5-7 minutes, until they are softened but not browned. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool.
- Prepare the Steak: While the fries are cooling, pat the steak bites dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Second Fry: Increase the heat of the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again in batches for 2-3 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels. Season immediately with salt.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer (do not overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary). Sear for 1-2 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Combine and Serve: Remove the steak bites from the skillet and add them directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly. Serve the garlic butter steak bites immediately with the crispy fries. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Fries:
- Choosing the Right Steak: Sirloin is a great budget-friendly option that’s flavorful and relatively tender. Ribeye is more marbled with fat, resulting in a richer, more decadent flavor. Tenderloin is the most tender cut, but it’s also the most expensive. Choose the cut that best suits your taste and budget.
- Getting Crispy Fries: Soaking the potatoes in cold water is crucial for removing excess starch. Double-frying ensures that the fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pot.
- Perfectly Seared Steak: Pat the steak bites dry before searing to get a good crust. Use a high-heat oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or canola oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan, sear in batches if necessary. Let the steak bites rest briefly before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garlic Butter Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your garlic butter. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Dipping Sauces: Elevate your fries with a variety of dipping sauces. Aioli, ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a simple Dijon mustard are all great options.
- Serving Suggestions: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Crispy Fries can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or a party snack. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked steak. Medium-rare is 130-135°F, medium is 135-145°F, medium-well is 145-155°F, and well-done is 155°F and above.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Store leftover Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Crispy Fries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak bites will keep for up to 3 days, and the fries will keep for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat the steak bites, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter or oil if needed. Avoid overheating, as this can make them tough. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as tender. To reheat the fries, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for similar results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to keep the steak bites tender?
The key to tender steak bites is to use a tender cut of meat, such as sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. It’s also important to avoid overcooking them. Sear them quickly over high heat to create a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Letting the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps to retain moisture.
Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fries, but they won’t be as crispy as homemade fries. If using frozen fries, follow the package instructions for cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time to achieve the desired level of crispness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare some components of this recipe ahead of time. You can cut the potatoes into fries and soak them in cold water up to 2 hours in advance. You can also make the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the steak bites and fries just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have a deep fryer?
You don’t need a deep fryer to make crispy fries. You can use a large, heavy-bottomed pot filled with enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the fries. Just make sure to monitor the oil temperature carefully using a thermometer to ensure it stays within the desired range.