If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures all in one pan, this French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender strips of juicy sirloin steak mingling with deeply caramelized sweet onions, tender red potatoes, and perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts, all topped with a luscious melting of nutty Gruyère cheese. It’s a one-skillet wonder that’s easy to make but feels special enough for any occasion. This dish is a celebration of bold, savory flavors coming together in a simple, cozy dinner you’ll adore sharing with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a beautiful blend of simple, quality ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish—whether it’s the sweetness of the onions, the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, or the richness of the beef and cheese. You’ll find these essentials not only work well together but also create a lovely balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut for quick cooking and juicy strips.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice and depth.
- 1/4 cup butter: Key for caramelizing those onions to golden perfection.
- 4 cups thinly sliced sweet onions (about 2 large onions): They add sweetness and that classic French onion character.
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Brings a subtle tang and richness to the caramelized onions.
- 2 teaspoons sugar: Helps boost the natural sweetness of the onions as they cook down.
- 2/3 cup beef broth: Adds depth and moisture to finish cooking the vegetables and meat.
- 2 medium red potatoes, thinly sliced (about 2 cups): Offer a creamy, tender counterpoint to the savory beef and onions.
- 8 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered (about 3 cups): Bring a slightly nutty crunch and vibrant green color to the skillet.
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a nutty creaminess that finishes the dish perfectly.
How to Make French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by cutting your boneless sirloin steak into thin strips; this not only helps it cook quickly but also allows the flavors to penetrate each bite. Once cut, season the steak generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning lets the meat’s natural richness shine through in every mouthful.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced sweet onions and let them cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. This patient cooking develops their sweetness beautifully. Then stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar—these ingredients deepen the caramelization, turning your onions into golden strands bursting with flavor. Continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the onions look beautifully soft and richly brown.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Push the caramelized onions to one side of your skillet to make room for the steak strips. Cook the steak for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until each strip is nicely browned on the outside yet remain juicy on the inside. This step locks in flavors while making sure you get those appetizing browned edges.
Step 4: Simmer with Vegetables
Once your beef is seared and onions perfectly caramelized, pour in the beef broth to bring everything together. Add the thinly sliced red potatoes and quartered Brussels sprouts on top. Stir gently to mix, then cover the skillet and let everything cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the Brussels sprouts have softened just enough to keep a slight bite.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the hot skillet. Cover for about 1 minute so the cheese melts into a gorgeous, creamy topping that ties all those savory flavors together. Serve immediately for that irresistible cheesy finish that makes this French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh, vibrant note that brightens the rich skillet flavors. For just a hint of extra indulgence, a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil or a pinch of smoked paprika also works beautifully as a finishing touch.
Side Dishes
You can keep it easy with a crisp green salad or serve with crusty artisanal bread to soak up every bit of that flavorful sauce. Roasted carrots or a simple beet salad also complement the earthy tones of the Brussels sprouts wonderfully, making the meal even more colorful and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving this dish directly in small cast iron skillets or rustic oven-safe dishes, which keeps everything warm at the table and adds a charming rustic touch. Alternatively, plating it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta gives the dish an extra layer of comfort and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish even more delicious the next day. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its texture or flavor.
Freezing
This French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the beef and vegetables. If reheating in the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals. Adding a splash of beef broth can refresh the moisture and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes! While sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and quick cooking time, flank or skirt steak can also work well if sliced thinly against the grain. Just adjust cooking time slightly to avoid toughness.
Are there alternatives to Gruyère cheese?
Absolutely. Swiss or Emmental cheese are excellent substitutes that melt nicely and have a similar nutty flavor. For a stronger punch, aged cheddar could also be a tasty twist.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the beef and substitute with hearty mushrooms or plant-based beef alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the caramelized onions will still provide plenty of savory depth.
What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?
Thin slices are important so the potatoes cook through evenly and tenderly during simmering. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices to match the cooking time of the Brussels sprouts and steak.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect recipe to prepare ahead for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is such a rewarding dish to make and enjoy. It brings together incredible flavors with minimum fuss and maximum comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this skillet dinner is bound to warm hearts and satisfy appetites—so I highly encourage you to give it a try soon. Once you do, I’m confident it will become a cherished staple in your recipe collection!
Print
French Onion and Beef Skillet Dinner with Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Description
A hearty and flavorful French Onion and Beef Dinner featuring tender strips of sirloin steak, caramelized sweet onions, tender red potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, all simmered together in savory beef broth and topped with melted Gruyère cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cups thinly sliced sweet onions (about 2 large onions)
- 2 medium red potatoes, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 8 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered (about 3 cups)
Cooking Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2/3 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Cut the sirloin steak into thin strips and season them with salt and pepper to ensure they are well-flavored from the start.
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced sweet onions and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, allowing the onions to soften.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar and Sugar: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar with the onions. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the onions turn a rich golden brown and caramelized.
- Sear the Steak: Push the caramelized onions to the side of the skillet. Add the seasoned steak strips to the empty side and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is browned on all sides.
- Simmer with Vegetables: Pour the beef broth into the skillet. Add the thinly sliced red potatoes and quartered Brussels sprouts. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the steak is fully cooked through.
- Melt the Cheese & Serve: Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet again and let stand for about 1 minute until the cheese melts. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh sweet onions for caramelization to add a natural sweetness to the dish.
- Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and thoroughly during the simmering process.
- If Gruyère cheese is unavailable, Swiss cheese can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference, especially if using beef broth that already contains sodium.
- This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
