Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the French Onions
Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the onions with sugar and continue cooking, stirring often, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, deglaze the pan with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Set the onions aside and keep warm.
2. Cook the Ribeye Steaks
While the onions are caramelizing, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the olive oil to the hot skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steaks to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic, thyme, and butter to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the melted butter and garlic mixture. Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. Make the French Fries
While the steaks are resting, heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the cut potatoes in batches, frying them until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Season immediately with salt and, if desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley.
4. Assemble the Plate
To serve, place the ribeye steaks on a plate and top with a generous portion of the caramelized French onions. Add a side of crispy French fries and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130°F to 135°F.
- Onion Variations: Try using red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Frying Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the fries in the oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Herb Butter: For an extra touch of flavor, mix softened butter with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme, and place a dollop on top of the hot steak before serving.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the steak, onions, and fries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak can be stored for up to 3 days, while the onions and fries are best consumed within 2 days. To reheat, warm the steak gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. Reheat the onions in a skillet over low heat, and crisp the fries in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.