Classic Peppercorn Ribeye Steak (Printable View)

Juicy ribeye steaks with cracked peppercorn crust served alongside crispy golden fries for a flavorful meal.

# What You Need:

→ Steaks

01 - 2 ribeye steaks, 10–12 oz each (about 1 inch thick)
02 - 2 tbsp coarsely crushed black peppercorns
03 - 1 tsp kosher salt
04 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
06 - 2 garlic cloves, smashed
07 - 2 sprigs fresh thyme

→ Peppercorn Sauce

08 - 1/3 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/3 cup beef stock
10 - 1 tbsp brandy or cognac (optional)
11 - Salt, to taste

→ Crispy Fries

12 - 3 large russet potatoes
13 - 2 tbsp white vinegar
14 - Vegetable oil, for frying
15 - Fine sea salt, to taste

# How To Make It:

01 - Peel and cut potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks. Soak in cold water with vinegar for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry thoroughly. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F and fry potatoes in batches for 4–5 minutes until tender but not browned. Drain on paper towels. Increase oil temperature to 375°F and fry potatoes again in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain and season with sea salt.
02 - Pat steaks dry and season both sides with kosher salt. Press crushed peppercorns firmly into the steaks. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add ribeyes and sear 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time to preferred doneness. During the last minute, add butter, garlic, and thyme; baste steaks with melted butter. Remove from skillet, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
03 - Remove excess fat from skillet, leaving browned bits. Over medium heat, deglaze with brandy if using, scraping up bits. Add beef stock and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes. Season with salt to taste. Strain sauce if desired.
04 - Plate the ribeye steaks alongside the crispy fries. Spoon the peppercorn sauce over the steaks or serve on the side.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Juicy, restaurant-quality steaks at home
  • Crispy fries that rival any steakhouse
02 -
  • Use a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan for best steak sear
  • Fries remain gluten-free if prepared in a dedicated fryer
03 -
  • Let steaks rest before slicing to retain juices
  • Mash garlic lightly to release extra flavor into butter
Return