Classic Steak Dinner with Red Wine – A Perfect Romantic Meal

Nothing says “romantic dinner” quite like a perfectly cooked steak served with rich garlic herb butter, creamy mashed potatoes, tender asparagus, and a glass of bold red wine. The Classic Steak Dinner is a timeless culinary experience — elegant yet comforting, fancy but not fussy.

It’s the kind of meal that transforms your dining table into a fine-dining restaurant, without leaving the comfort of home.

Why We Love This Recipe:

• Rich & Flavorful: The ribeye steak is seared to perfection, juicy on the inside with a buttery garlic crust.
• Complete & Balanced: From silky mashed potatoes to crisp asparagus, every component complements the main course beautifully.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can create a gourmet meal that feels luxurious.
• Versatile & Customizable: Whether you swap the side, try filet mignon, or change the wine — the base recipe stays strong.

Why It’s a Must-Try for a Romantic Dinner:

• Mood Setter: Served with candlelight and wine, this meal sets the tone for an intimate, heartfelt evening.
• Shared Experience: Cooking together adds a personal touch and deepens connection — laughter over mashed potatoes is underrated!
• Indulgent Without Overdoing It: It’s satisfying and special, but not overly heavy, so you can still enjoy dessert and wine afterward.

Whether it’s a date night, anniversary, or just because — this dinner is a beautiful way to say “I love you” through food.

Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Serves: 2

Drink Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec

MAIN COURSE: Grilled Ribeye Steak with Garlic Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 Ribeye steaks (8–10 oz each), about 1–1.5 inches thick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

For Garlic Herb Butter:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 tsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Make the Herb Butter:
   Mix softened butter, garlic, herbs, and a pinch of salt. Place on plastic wrap, roll into a log, and refrigerate.
2. Prepare the Steak:
   Pat steaks dry. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let rest for 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
3. Cook the Steak:
   Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add olive oil. Sear steaks 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Add butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan. Spoon over steaks as they finish cooking.
4. Rest the Steak:
   Remove and rest the steaks for 5–7 minutes. Top with garlic herb butter before serving.

SIDE 1: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup milk or cream
• 3 garlic cloves (roasted or minced)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender (~15 mins).
2. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, and warm milk until creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

SIDE 2: Grilled Asparagus

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp grated parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toss asparagus with oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill or roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Sprinkle with parmesan before serving (optional).

DESSERT: Chocolate Lava Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 oz (60g) semi-sweet chocolate
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp flour
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar and berries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 2 ramekins.
2. Melt chocolate & butter together. In another bowl, whisk egg, yolk, and sugar until light.
3. Combine chocolate mixture and flour. Pour into ramekins.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes — edges should be firm, center gooey.
5. Let cool 1 minute, invert, and serve with berries or powdered sugar.

DRINK PAIRING: Red Wine

Recommended: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec perfectly complements the richness of the steak and the dark chocolate in dessert.

How to Serve:

• Plate steak with a pat of herb butter on top
• Scoop mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs
• Arrange grilled asparagus neatly on the side
• Serve lava cake warm with a glass of red wine
• Set the table with soft lighting or candles for extra charm

Tips & Variations:

• Let steaks rest before cutting to retain juices.
• For dessert prep, make batter ahead and refrigerate, bake when ready.
• Use filet mignon or NY strip as steak alternatives.
• Add a side salad if you want something extra fresh.