Name: Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces ribeye or sirloin steaks (Ribeye is juicier, but sirloin is also great.); 1 tbsp olive oil (Helps build the golden crust.); 1 tsp salt (Kosher salt recommended for deeper flavor.); ½ tsp black pepper (Freshly cracked is a must.); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika (Adds spice.); 1 tbsp butter (For basting.); 2 medium tomatoes, sliced (Ripe heirlooms or vine-ripened are best.); ½ piece red onion, thinly sliced (Soak in cold water for mild flavor.); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice (Either gives a bright pop.); Salt & black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil (optional) (Adds freshness.); 2 large russet potatoes, cut into thin strips (Russets crisp up well.); 2 tbsp oil (Avocado or canola both work.); Salt to taste

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

A Cozy Night In with Grilled Steak, Tomato & Onion Salad, and Crispy Fries

There’s something truly magical about gathering around the table for a hearty, home-cooked meal. For me, Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries instantly brings memories of warm summer evenings, the sizzle of steak hitting the grill, and laughter echoing through my backyard. I can still smell the smoky aroma of ribeye mingling with the earthiness of fresh-cut fries—pure comfort food bliss. This grilled steak recipe is my go-to whether I’m treating myself after a long week or sharing the love with friends and family. If you’re craving a simple but soul-satisfying grilled steak dinner, you’ll want to keep reading!

Why You’ll Adore This Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries

Let’s be honest: few things beat a perfectly cooked steak, but this recipe is more than a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll love it, too:

The steak melts in your mouth. Thanks to smoky grill marks and a buttery finish, each juicy bite is packed with flavor. (And that steakhouse aroma? Dreamy.)
Fresh, zesty salad means no heaviness. The crisp tomato and onion salad breaks up the richness of the steak—refreshing, colorful, and makes you feel great.
Homemade crispy fries are next-level. Forget soggy takeout—these golden fries are oven-baked or air fried to crispy perfection. Trust me, they vanish fast.
It’s surprisingly easy. You don’t need restaurant skills or fancy gadgets—just a few good ingredients and a little kitchen love.

This grilled steak recipe feels like a treat but is accessible enough for weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries

Let’s talk ingredients—the simple, delicious building blocks for this steak dinner:

For the Steak

2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (I reach for ribeye when I want something super juicy, but sirloin is great, too!)
1 tbsp olive oil (helps build that golden crust)
1 tsp salt (I recommend kosher salt for deeper flavor)
½ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked is a must)
1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp paprika (these spice things up just right)
1 tbsp butter (for swirling into hot steaks—so good!)

For the Tomato & Onion Salad

2 medium tomatoes, sliced (ripe heirlooms or vine-ripened are best here)
½ red onion, thinly sliced (soak onion slices in cold water for 10 mins if you prefer them mild)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice (either gives a bright pop)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil (optional, but adds freshness)

For the Crispy Fries

2 large russet potatoes, cut into thin strips (russets crisp up so well)
2 tbsp oil (avocado or canola both work)
Salt to taste

Nothing fancy—just classic flavors that shine.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries

Don’t worry if you’re new to grilling steak at home. Here’s how I make this meal—step by step:

Prep the Fries.
Toss those potato strips with oil and salt on a baking sheet. Arrange in a single layer. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway (hello, maximum crispiness!), or use your air fryer at 400°F for 20 minutes. I scatter sea salt over them as soon as they’re done.
Season and Grill the Steak.
While your fries are working, rub steaks with olive oil, then season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Preheat the grill (or a grill pan) over medium-high. Sear steaks for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (I use a meat thermometer to play it safe—130°F is my sweet spot). In the last minute, add the butter and baste the steaks. Let them rest 5 minutes before slicing so the juices stay in.
Toss the Salad.
While steaks rest, combine tomato and onion slices in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar (or lemon). Season with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and toss with fresh herbs if you’ve got some on hand.
Serve and Enjoy!
Pile the grilled steak slices onto plates, add crispy fries and that vibrant tomato & onion salad. Maybe a lemon wedge for brightness. Dig in while everything’s hot and delicious!

My Secret Tips and Tricks for Grilled Steak Dinner Success

After making this grilled steak recipe dozens of times, I’ve picked up a few handy tricks (these are especially handy if you’re new to grilling steak):

Bring steaks to room temp for even cooking. A quick 30 minutes out of the fridge helps with more even doneness.
Pat steaks dry before searing. Extra moisture prevents that gorgeous crust.
Rest those steaks! I used to rush—don’t make my mistake. Five minutes is all it takes to lock in the juicy goodness.
Soak potatoes in cold water before baking. This removes excess starch and makes fries even crispier (it’s a lifesaver if you want that classic steak fries crunch).
Slice tomatoes just before serving. They taste fresher and won’t get too watery in the salad.

Little touches make all the difference with this grilled steak with tomato & onion salad!

Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps

There’s so much room to have fun with this classic steak dinner:

Try sweet potatoes or carrots for fries if you’re wanting extra color (or a lower carb option).
Top the steak with blue cheese, chimichurri, or sautéed mushrooms for a steakhouse spin.
Swap ribeye for filet mignon, flank, or even grilled chicken (the spice rub works wonders on all).
Use cherry tomatoes in the salad when in season—they’re extra sweet.
Mix in arugula or spinach with the salad for extra greens.

Feel free to riff on this grilled steak recipe to suit your mood (or what’s in your pantry!).

How to Serve and Store Your Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries

Serving this steak dinner is all about letting each element shine. I love piling everything onto a big platter, steak slices fanned out next to a generous heap of fries and that salad nestled in for color. Garnish with extra herbs for a touch of freshness.

Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover steak in an airtight container (I love slicing it first for easy steak salads the next day).
Fries are best fresh but can be revived in the oven or air fryer at 400°F for 5–8 minutes.
The salad is best eaten the same day but will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

This grilled steak recipe is just as good for lunch leftovers as it is for dinner, believe me!

FAQs: Your Top Questions About Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries Answered

Q: What’s the best cut of steak for grilling?
A: Ribeye is my first pick for juiciness and flavor, but sirloin, filet mignon, or even New York strip work well in this grilled steak recipe.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer—130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Rest after grilling for perfect juiciness.

Q: Can I make this without a grill?
A: Absolutely! A cast iron pan gives steaks a lovely crust (just get the pan nice and hot).

Q: Any tips for extra crispy fries?
A: Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes before baking, dry them really well, and don’t overcrowd during baking. (These fries are fantastic in the air fryer, too.)

Q: Can I prep any components ahead?
A: Yes! You can cut and soak the potatoes and slice onions a day before. Just pat everything dry before using.

Cooking at home should feel rewarding, not intimidating. This Grilled Steak with Tomato & Onion Salad + Crispy Fries recipe is comfort food—simple, beautiful, and guaranteed to leave everyone happy. I hope you make it soon and that it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. If you try it, let me know—your stories make this space feel like home!