What if we told you the secret to the best seared steak is mayonnaise?

Brushing steaks with mayonnaise is an ingenious idea.

The result is tender beef with a gorgeous crust and spices that are toasted just right.

Southern Living Pan Seared Strip Steaks

Credit:Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

Remove steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking, and let come to room temperature.

Stir together mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of the spice mix in a small bowl.

(Reserve any remaining spice mix for another use.)

Pat steaks dry with a paper towel, and sprinkle both sides evenly with kosher salt.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high until hot.

Brush opposite side of steaks (side facing up) with some of the mayonnaise mixture.

Flip steaks, and cook until edges on both sides are seared, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board, and let rest at least 15 minutes before serving.