Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce
If you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce. This recipe has stolen my heart (and my taste buds!) because it strikes the perfect balance between elegant and approachable. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this steak dinner always impresses. The rich flavors of the smoky garlic cream sauce paired with the perfectly seared bavette steak make it a true showstopper.
What I love most about this recipe is how uncomplicated it is. You can whip it up in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for both family gatherings and cozy nights in. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, perfect for a busy evening.
- Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of the creamy barley tea garlic sauce and savory bavette steak is irresistible.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with a garnish, and you have a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
- Versatile Ingredients: These simple ingredients can be easily swapped based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful steak dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful meal. You probably already have many of these items in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Steak
- 1 Bavette steak (about 1 lb)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup barley tea
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.
- Swap the protein: If you’re not into bavette steak, try using flank steak or chicken breast for a lighter option.
- Add some veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream to keep it dairy-free while still creamy.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a little kick if you like heat!
How to Make Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Take the bavette steak out of the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking. Patting it dry helps achieve that beautiful sear later on. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also creates a delicious crust when seared.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned steak into the skillet. Searing for 4–5 minutes on each side will give you that perfect medium-rare finish (an internal temperature of 130°F/54°C). This step is crucial as it locks in all those tasty juices!
Step 3: Let It Rest
After searing, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce
In that same skillet (don’t clean it yet!), lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds an aromatic base for our sauce.
Step 5: Add Barley Tea
Pour in your barley tea while scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let that simmer for about 2–3 minutes—this will enhance our sauce’s depth and flavor without any alcohol content.
Step 6: Stir in Heavy Cream
Now it’s time to add heavy cream! Stir gently as it simmers until thickened—around 5 minutes should do it. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed; remember, seasoning makes all the difference!
Step 7: Plate It Up
Slice the rested steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Plate it beautifully and drizzle that luscious barley tea garlic cream sauce generously over top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired—this adds a lovely pop of color!
And there you have it—your very own Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce! Enjoy every bite of this comforting yet sophisticated dish!
Pro Tips for Making Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Barley Tea Garlic Cream Sauce
Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your steak to new heights!
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Let the steak rest: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
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Use a meat thermometer: To achieve the perfect level of doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of cooking and guarantees consistent results.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the steak in a hot cast iron skillet without crowding ensures it sears beautifully, locking in flavors while preventing steaming.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings to create a flavor profile that suits your liking.
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Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve the steak right after plating. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors and textures at their peak!
How to Serve Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Barley Tea Garlic Cream Sauce
Presentation is key when it comes to impressing your family or guests. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this exquisite dish.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich sauce.
- Chili flakes: For a hint of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top. This not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery, garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the savory steak and sauce.
- Roasted seasonal vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
- Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the steak.
- Sauteed greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale with garlic makes for an easy yet nutritious side that pairs beautifully with this meal.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Barley Tea Garlic Cream Sauce will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the plate! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy the flavors throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the steak and sauce to cool completely before storing.
- Place the sliced steak in an airtight container, separating it from the sauce if possible.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- If you’re planning to freeze, it’s best to freeze the steak without the sauce.
- Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- The steak can be frozen for up to 2 months. The sauce can be frozen separately in an airtight container.
Reheating
- For best results, thaw the steak overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To reheat, warm the steak gently on a skillet over low heat until heated through.
- Reheat the barley tea garlic cream sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:
Can I use a different cut of meat instead of Bavette steak?
Yes! While Bavette is flavorful and tender, you can substitute with flank or skirt steak for similar results. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. This will give you a rich consistency while keeping it light!
What can I serve with Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You might also consider serving it over quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
How long does it take to cook Bavette steak?
Cooking bavette steak typically takes about 10-12 minutes total for medium-rare when searing on high heat. Always check for your desired doneness using a meat thermometer.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Cast Iron Bavette Steak with barley tea Garlic Cream Sauce as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of smoky flavors and creamy richness that brings a touch of elegance right to your dining table. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking and savor every bite!
Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Barley Tea Garlic Cream Sauce
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Barley Tea Garlic Cream Sauce. This dish combines tender bavette steak, perfectly seared to lock in juices, with a creamy garlic sauce infused with nutty barley tea. In just 40 minutes, you can serve up a meal that looks and tastes like it belongs in a fine dining restaurant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike, ensuring every bite is both comforting and sophisticated. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it based on your preferences or pantry staples, making it an excellent go-to in your culinary repertoire.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb bavette steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup barley tea
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the bavette steak from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking. Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 4–5 minutes per side until medium-rare (130°F/54°C). Let rest for 5–10 minutes.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
- Pour in barley tea, scraping the skillet's bottom for flavor bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice rested steak against the grain and drizzle with sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6 oz cooked steak + sauce)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
