Pan-Seared New York Steak with Garlic Butter

Ingredients

• 2 New York strip steaks (about 8 oz each), room temperature
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tbsp neutral oil with high smoke point
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, lightly smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

1. Pat steaks completely dry and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high until very hot. Add oil; when it shimmers, lay steaks in without crowding.
3. Sear without moving until a deep crust forms, about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, garlic, and herbs. Tilt the pan and spoon foaming butter over the steaks for 1–2 minutes.
5. Rest steaks on a cutting board 5–8 minutes. Slice against the grain, finish with flaky salt and lemon zest if using.