Start by removing your steaks from the fridge and letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows for even cooking. Cold steaks won't sear properly and might end up unevenly cooked. Grab yourself a drink and relax; you’ve earned it!

After 30 minutes, take some paper towels and pat your steaks dry. Don't skip this; we want to ensure a good sear. Drizzle the olive oil over the steaks, then season generously with sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and the garlic powder. Rub the seasonings in well, ensuring every inch is covered—this is where the flavor starts to develop.

Set your air fryer to 400°F (that’s around 200°C for everyone outside the U.S.). This high temperature helps achieve that beautiful, golden crust on your steak. While it’s heating up, you can gather your favorite sides or maybe sneak a taste of the seasoning mix you made!

Once your air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned steaks in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; we want the hot air to circulate around the steaks for even cooking. Air fry for 5 minutes. Don't peek! After 5 minutes, flip the steaks carefully and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for about 135°F for medium-rare and 150°F for medium.

Once your steaks have reached your desired doneness, take them out and top each steak with a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.