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A gourmet plate of medium-rare steak, caramelized onions, and black beans

How to Make the Best Steak, Beans & Onions Recipe

Camellia
This steak, beans, and onions recipe combines a juicy, perfectly seared steak with caramelized onions and hearty beans. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye steaks or sirloin/filet mignon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter

For the Beans:

  • 1 cup black beans cooked or canned
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 pinch chili flakes optional

For the Onions:

  • 2 medium yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, to enhance sweetness
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar optional, for deglazing

Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh rosemary or thyme
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze

Instructions
 

Prepare the Steak:

  • Remove the steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
  • Pat them dry and season both sides generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt.

Sear the Steak:

  • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter.
  • Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or until your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (e.g., 135°F for medium-rare).
  • Remove the steaks from the pan, tent with foil, and let them rest for 5-7 minutes.

Caramelize the Onions:

  • In the same skillet, add more olive oil or butter if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
  • Cook on medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized. Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Prepare the Beans:

  • If using canned beans, rinse them thoroughly.
  • In a saucepan, heat the beans with cumin, chili flakes, and a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Assemble the Dish:

  • Slice the steak against the grain into thin pieces.
  • Plate the steak alongside a generous serving of beans. Top with caramelized onions and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
  • Substitute black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas for variation.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked steak every time.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 25g
 
We’d love to hear how your steak, beans, and onions turned out. Share your feedback or any twists you added in the comments below!