Steak fries are a beloved comfort food that brings a satisfying crunch and hearty flavor to any meal. These thick-cut potato wedges are not just a side dish; they are a culinary experience that has roots in classic American cuisine. Originating from the need for a more substantial fry, steak fries have become a staple in diners and restaurants across the country, often served alongside juicy steaks or burgers.

What I adore about steak fries is their perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making each bite a delightful journey of taste and texture. Whether youre enjoying them at a backyard barbecue or as a cozy side at home, steak fries are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Their convenience and ability to pair well with a variety of dips and sauces make them a favorite among family and friends. Join me as we explore the art of making the perfect steak fries that will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Preparing the Potatoes

1. **Wash and Peel**: Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. I like to use a vegetable brush for this step. Once clean, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer skin-on fries, you can skip this step. 2. **Cutting the Potatoes**: After peeling, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Then, take each half and cut it into thick wedges, about 1 inch wide. This will give you that classic steak fry shape. Make sure to keep the wedges as uniform as possible for even cooking. 3. **Soaking the Potatoes**: To achieve that perfect crispy texture, soak the potato wedges in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess starch, which can make the fries gummy. If you have time, soaking them for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge is even better. 4. **Drying the Potatoes**: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This is crucial because excess moisture can prevent the fries from getting crispy in the oven.

Seasoning the Fries

5. **Mixing the Seasoning**: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your steak fries a delicious flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. 6. **Coating the Fries**: In a large mixing bowl, add the dried potato wedges. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix over the top. Using your hands, toss the potatoes until they are well coated with oil and spices. I love getting my hands in there to make sure every wedge is covered!

Cooking the Fries

7. **Preheating the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that crispy exterior. 8. **Preparing the Baking Sheet**: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent the fries from sticking and make cleanup easier. 9. **Arranging the Fries**: Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded; this allows the hot air to circulate around each fry, ensuring they cook evenly and become crispy. 10. **Baking the Fries**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, around the 15-minute mark, take the baking sheet out and flip the fries using a spatula. This will help them brown evenly on all sides. 11. **Checking for Doneness**: After 25-30 minutes, check the fries for doneness. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside. If they need a little more time, feel free to pop them back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Assembling and Serving

12. **Garnishing the Fries**: Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This will help them crisp up even more. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 13. **Optional Toppings**: If you want to take your steak fries to the next level, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese while they are still hot. The cheese will melt slightly and create a deliciously savory topping. 14. **Serving Suggestions**: Serve the steak fries hot, straight from the oven. They make a fantastic side dish for burgers, steak, or even as a snack on their own. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli for an extra treat. 15. **Storing Leftovers**: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the fries cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge

Conclusion:

In summary, these steak fries are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they perfectly complement a variety of main courses, from juicy burgers to grilled steaks. You can even get creative with serving suggestionstry pairing them with a zesty garlic aioli, a tangy barbecue sauce, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different seasonings or dipping sauces to make this recipe your own. Whether you prefer classic salt and pepper or a spicy kick with paprika and cayenne, the possibilities are endless. I encourage you to give this steak fries recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Id love to hear how you made it your own and what delicious pairings you came up with. Trust me, once you taste these homemade steak fries, youll never want to go back to store-bought again! So roll up your sleeves, grab those potatoes, and lets get cooking!