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There’s a certain thrill that comes with transforming simple ingredients into a spectacular meal, and this Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Smoky Whiskey Garlic Cream Sauce does just that. Imagine the satisfying sizzle as the steak hits the hot, cast-iron skillet, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that hints at gourmet experiences reserved for high-end restaurants. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to be a seasoned chef to master this dish.

Perfectly seared, with a crispy crust encasing a tender, juicy interior, this steak not only captivates your taste buds, but it also invites family and friends into the warmth of your home-cooked meals. As you drizzle on the rich, smoky whiskey garlic cream sauce, you’ll discover a vibrant fusion of flavors that elevates a simple dinner into an exquisite dining experience. Say goodbye to fast food and hello to your new favorite comfort food that feels like a culinary celebration right in your own kitchen! Let’s get cooking!

Why Love Cast Iron Bavette Steak?

Gourmet Experience: This dish elevates your cooking to restaurant-quality without the hefty price tag.
Easy to Master: With minimal skills required, even novice cooks can impress.
Savory Heat: The smoky whiskey garlic cream sauce brings a delightful kick that complements the steak beautifully.
Versatile Options: Swap in flank or skirt steak effortlessly, keeping the flavor intact.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests – everyone will want seconds!
Satisfying Aroma: The irresistible fragrance while cooking sets the stage for a delightful meal, making it a memorable experience.

Ready for a delightful night in? Explore other delicious recipes that will transform your dinner table!

Cast Iron Bavette Steak Ingredients

• Discover the key ingredients that make this dish a standout!

For the Steak

Bavette Steak – This rich, flavorful cut is perfect for searing and bursting with juiciness.
Olive Oil – Essential for creating that golden crust while searing the steak to perfection.
Salt – The magic seasoning that enhances the steak’s natural flavors beautifully.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and complexity to your dish.
Garlic Powder – A convenient way to give depth and richness without the fuss of fresh garlic.

For the Whiskey Garlic Cream Sauce

Whiskey – Choose a whiskey you enjoy sipping; it adds a smoky layer to the sauce.
Heavy Cream – The base that transforms your sauce into a luxuriously creamy delight.
Butter – This enhances the silkiness of the sauce, ensuring every bite is decadent.

Now you’re ready to turn these simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal featuring Cast Iron Bavette Steak that your family will adore!

How to Make Cast Iron Bavette Steak

Prepare Steak: Start by letting your bavette steak sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Pat it dry to ensure a nice sear, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for maximum flavor.
Heat Skillet: Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil and heat it until shimmering, which means it’s perfect for that gorgeous crust.
Sear Steak: Place the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. Sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, gently pressing down to achieve an even crust. Look for it to reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
Rest Steak: Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is key to retaining those delicious juices inside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in your whiskey and, if desired, add minced garlic. Allow the whiskey to cook off briefly before stirring in heavy cream and butter. Adjust the cream for your preferred sauce consistency, and don’t forget to season to taste!
Serve: Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness, plate it up, and generously drizzle your rich whiskey garlic cream sauce over the top. You can garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like a pop of color.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cast Iron Bavette Steak

Fridge: Store leftover cooked bavette steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the steak to cool to room temperature before sealing to reduce condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will retain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Add the whiskey garlic cream sauce back in for extra flavor.

Sauce Storage: Store the whiskey garlic cream sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Cast Iron Bavette Steaks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the week! You can season the steak and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, prepare the whiskey garlic cream sauce in advance—simply combine the whiskey and cream and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the sauce gently over low heat while searing the steak until it reaches your desired doneness. This way, you’ll achieve a quick, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Cast Iron Bavette Steak?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this sumptuous steak with delightful sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes create a perfect complement to the savory steak. Drenched in the whiskey garlic sauce, it’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crisp, caramelized edges and deep flavor balance the steak’s richness, adding a crunch that brightens each bite. Tossed with olive oil and garlic, they bring a delightful earthiness to your plate.
Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans bring a fresh, vibrant color and a satisfying snap. Their grassy notes contrast beautifully with the smoky sauce, creating a harmonious balance.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add a refreshing crunch that cuts through the steak’s richness. The tangy parmesan shavings and croutons provide a delightful texture that elevates your meal.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the bavette steak while adding elegance to your dining experience. The wine’s tannins complement the meat’s richness beautifully.
Chocolate Molten Lava Cake: End your meal on a high note with this indulgent dessert. The cake’s rich, molten center contrasts perfectly with the steak’s robust flavors, offering a sweet conclusion to a delicious evening.

Each pairing is crafted to build a complete, memorable dining experience, transforming your kitchen into a gourmet escape!

Variations & Substitutions for Cast Iron Bavette Steak

Feel free to put your personal twist on this delicious recipe and make it truly your own!

Flank Steak: Swap the bavette for flank steak, adjusting cooking times for a quick and tasty variation.
Skirt Steak: Another excellent alternative; just keep an eye on cooking times for optimal tenderness.
Spicy Whiskey: For a kick, use a spicy whiskey in the sauce that adds an exciting layer of flavor to each bite.
Herb-Infused Sauce: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic boost that tantalizes the senses.
Creamy Alternatives: Coconut cream makes a dairy-free sauce, adding a hint of sweetness without compromising richness.
Garlic Burst: Fresh minced garlic can amplify the flavor in the sauce; sauté briefly with the whiskey for an added punch.
Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey can balance the whiskey’s smokiness, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Smoky Chipotle: For those who love heat, add chipotle powder to the sauce, bringing a bold twist that complements the steak beautifully.

Expert Tips for Cooking Cast Iron Bavette Steak

Rest Your Steak: Always allow the steak to rest after cooking for 5-10 minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute and keeps your meat tender and juicy.
Doneness Dilemma: Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, as cooking too long can dry it out.
Generous Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and garlic powder! A generous seasoning helps penetrate the steak for enhanced flavor and creates a delicious crust.
Searing Technique: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before placing the steak in. A proper sear creates that coveted crispy crust and locks in flavors.
Sauce Variations: If you crave a different flavor, try using a smoky whiskey or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat in your whiskey garlic cream sauce.
Cut Against the Grain: When slicing your bavette steak, always cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. This simple technique enhances the eating experience!

Cast Iron Bavette Steak with Whiskey Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best bavette steak?
Look for a bavette steak that has a rich red color with significant marbling. This marbling is key to ensuring flavor and tenderness in your final dish. If you don’t find bavette, flank or skirt steak are great alternatives that maintain that delicious steak flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover steak?
Store your leftover cooked bavette steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the steak to cool to room temperature before sealing it to minimize condensation, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze bavette steak?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can remain in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

How do I reheat leftover bavette steak without drying it out?
To reheat, gently bring the steak to room temperature before cooking. Heat a skillet over low heat and add a splash of beef broth or water to create steam, which helps prevent drying. You can even add a bit of the whiskey garlic cream sauce back into the pan for extra moisture and flavor as you heat it through.

What should I do if my steak is tough?
If your bavette steak turns out tough, this might be due to overcooking, as tender cuts like bavette require careful attention to temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Additionally, remember to slice against the grain after resting; this can drastically enhance tenderness.

Is this dish suitable for any dietary restrictions?
While this recipe is not gluten-free due to the sauce’s whiskey content, you can adapt it by using a gluten-free whiskey or omitting it altogether and replacing it with beef broth for richness. Always consider checking for allergies related to dairy, as heavy cream and butter are key ingredients in the sauce.