Ultimate Grilled Steak and Sausage Platter with Crispy Fries
Nothing brings people together like the sizzle of a hot grill and the aroma of perfectly cooked meats paired with golden, crispy fries. This Grilled Steak and Sausage Platter with Fries is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a game-day feast, or a casual family dinner. Tender sirloin steak strips, smoky sausages, caramelized onion rings, and oven-baked fries come together in a vibrant, shareable dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. Fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and let’s create a meal that’s sure to impress!
This recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for those who crave bold flavors and hearty portions. With a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of around 40 minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping platter ready in under an hour. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
To make this irresistible platter, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Here’s what to grab from the store or your pantry:
- For the Meats and Onions:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, sliced into ½-inch strips (choose well-marbled cuts for maximum juiciness) 🥩
- 3 smoked sausages (such as andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo), cut into ¼-inch slices 🌭
- 1 large sweet onion, sliced into thick rings 🧅
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling) 🫒
- 1.5 tsp kosher salt 🧂
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky kick) 🌶️
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional, for an herby touch)
- For the Crispy Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a creamier texture), cut into ¼-inch fries 🥔
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️
- 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- ¾ tsp kosher salt 🧂
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy twist
- For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a burst of freshness) 🌿
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for extra flair
- Your favorite dipping sauces (think chimichurri, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup) 🍶
Equipment Needed
- Outdoor grill or indoor grill pan
- Large baking sheet
- Tongs for grilling
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional, for keeping food warm)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a platter that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each component is cooked to perfection, ensuring a balance of juicy meats, smoky sausages, tender onions, and crispy fries.
Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Oven Fries
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes (or leave the skin on for a rustic look). Cut them into ¼-inch thick fries for optimal crispiness. Soak the fries in cold water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Season the Fries: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fries with 2 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Ensure every fry is evenly coated.
- Bake the Fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F) if needed while you grill the meats.
Step 2: Prep the Meats and Onions
- Season the Steak: Place the sirloin strips in a bowl and season with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano (if using). Toss to coat evenly and let the steak sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Slice the Sausages and Onions: Cut the smoked sausages into ¼-inch slices for quick grilling. Slice the onion into thick rings, keeping them intact for easier grilling. Lightly brush the onion rings with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Set Up the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the grates or pan with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Meats and Onions
- Grill the Steak Strips: Place the steak strips on the hot grill, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (135°F internal temperature). Adjust the time for your preferred doneness (2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes for well-done). Remove the steak and let it rest under foil for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
- Grill the Sausages and Onions: Add the sausage slices and onion rings to the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are nicely charred and the onions are tender and slightly caramelized. The sausages are pre-cooked, so you’re just enhancing their smoky flavor.
- Keep Warm: Transfer the grilled meats and onions to a platter and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you finish up.
Step 4: Assemble the Platter
- Arrange the Components: On a large, rustic serving platter, create a vibrant display. Start with a generous pile of crispy fries on one side. Artfully arrange the grilled steak strips, sausage slices, and onion rings across the platter, letting the colors and textures shine.
- Add a Pop of Color: Sprinkle the entire platter with freshly chopped parsley and chives for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Optional Touches: Serve with small bowls of dipping sauces like chimichurri, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup to elevate the experience.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Bring the platter to the table hot and watch your guests’ eyes light up! This dish is perfect for sharing, so provide tongs or forks for everyone to dig in. Pair it with a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or a cold beer for the ultimate feast. Enjoy the bold flavors and the joy of a meal made with love!
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness. For sausages, try regional varieties like andouille for spice or kielbasa for a classic smoky taste.
- Perfect Fries Every Time: Soaking the potatoes removes starch, ensuring crispier fries. Don’t skip the single-layer baking to avoid soggy results.
- Grill Marks Matter: For those picture-perfect grill marks, avoid moving the meat too soon. Let it sear undisturbed for at least 2 minutes per side.
- Rest the Steak: Letting the steak rest after grilling keeps it juicy and tender. Don’t skip this step!
- Make It Quick: If you’re short on time, use store-bought frozen fries and bake them according to the package instructions.
Variations to Try
This platter is endlessly customizable to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to mix it up:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili powder or chipotle seasoning to the steak and fries for a fiery kick. Serve with a side of sriracha mayo.
- Mediterranean Vibes: Swap the smoked paprika for za’atar and serve with a tzatziki dipping sauce. Add grilled bell peppers for extra color.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the fries with grilled zucchini wedges or cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
- Vegetarian Platter: Skip the meats and grill portobello mushrooms, eggplant slices, and halloumi cheese for a hearty vegetarian feast.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or grated cheddar over the fries just before serving for a decadent touch.
Serving Suggestions
This platter is a meal on its own, but you can round out the experience with these complementary sides and drinks:
- Sides: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, grilled corn on the cob, or coleslaw for crunch.
- Drinks: Pair with an ice-cold craft beer, a bold red wine like Malbec, or a refreshing iced tea for non-alcoholic gatherings.
- Dessert: Finish with something light like grilled peaches with whipped cream or a citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate.
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their deliciousness:
- Storage: Place leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the fries separately to prevent sogginess.
- Reheating: Reheat the meats and onions in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second bursts. For the fries, re-crisp them in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze the grilled meats and onions in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Fries are best enjoyed fresh, so avoid freezing them.
Why You’ll Love This Platter
This Grilled Steak and Sausage Platter with Fries is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of smoky, juicy meats, sweet grilled onions, and perfectly crispy fries creates a symphony of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy any crowd. It’s versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and create a platter that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Share your creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media—we can’t wait to see your spin on this hearty feast!
