There’s something truly special about the sizzle of a tomahawk steak on the grill—it’s like a culinary symphony that promises an unforgettable meal. This magnificent cut, with its long bone resembling a caveman’s steak, transforms any backyard gathering into a feast worth celebrating. Picture the moment your guests’ eyes widen in delight as you unveil this impressive centerpiece, golden and succulent, ready to be carved.
After a long week of mundane dinners, I found myself craving something extraordinary—a smoky, tender masterpiece that would bring joy back to my dining table. This tomahawk steak grill recipe not only delivers bold flavors and juicy tenderness but also elevates a simple gathering into a gourmet experience. With just a few essential ingredients and a bit of patience, you’re on your way to mastering a dish that showcases your grilling prowess. So, grab your tongs and let’s dive into the world of epic barbecue bliss—you won’t want to miss this!
Why is the tomahawk steak grill recipe a must-try?
Unmatched Impressiveness: The sheer size and beauty of the tomahawk steak will make you the star of any gathering.
Simplicity in Preparation: With just four key ingredients, it’s a foolproof way to showcase your cooking skills.
Bold, Smoky Flavor: The gentle grill process imbues each bite with rich, smoky undertones that elevate your dining experience.
Perfect for Sharing: This dish can effortlessly serve four, making it ideal for family dinners or fun cookouts with friends.
Versatile Accompaniments: Whether you choose to dip it in BBQ sauce or pair it with sides, the flavors are exquisite!
Tomahawk Steak Ingredients
• Unlock the secrets to perfecting this tomahawk steak grill recipe with these simple ingredients.
For the Steak
• Tomahawk steak – Select a high-quality cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Kosher salt – Use generously to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
For the Garlic Butter
• Butter – Choose a good quality butter to enrich the steak with a luscious finish.
• Fresh garlic – Minced or chopped, fresh garlic adds a delightful aromatic burst.
Optional Enhancement
• BBQ sauce – A flavorful addition if you prefer a tangy kick with your steak.
How to Make Tomahawk Steak
Remove the Steak: Pull the tomahawk steak out of the refrigerator 1 hour prior to grilling and let it rest on the counter. This helps achieve an even cook throughout.
Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to a steady 225 degrees F. This low and slow approach will maximize tenderness while creating that coveted smoky flavor.
Pat and Season: Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with kosher salt. This step is crucial for enhancing the meat’s natural flavors.
Grill the Steak: Transfer the tomahawk steak to the preheated grill. Insert the meat probe and close the lid. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of about 115 – 120 degrees F, around 45 to 55 minutes.
Rest the Steak: Once done, remove the steak from the grill, place it on a plate or cutting board, tent it with aluminum foil, and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy bite.
Increase Temperature: Raise the grill temperature to about 450 degrees F in preparation for that perfect sear.
Choose Your Cooking Method: Decide whether you’ll sear the steak in a cast iron pan or directly on the grill grates. Both options yield delicious results!
Sear for Flavor: Sear the steak on all sides for about 1 minute each. If you desire more char, feel free to leave it a bit longer.
Remove and Relax: Take the steak off the grill and set it on a cutting board. Let it relax for a moment as you prepare your garlic butter.
Make Garlic Butter: In a small cast iron pan, warm the butter on the grill. Once it bubbles, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
Finish up: Strain the garlic from the butter if you prefer, then carve the steak and generously pour the luscious garlic butter over the top.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate your impressive tomahawk steak, and get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite!
Optional: Serve with a side of BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Tomahawk Steak?
Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that will create a sumptuous meal to savor and share.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the steak’s rich flavor, making each bite utterly delightful.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred and slightly smoky, asparagus adds a fresh green element to balance the hearty steak.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Earthy and savory, these mushrooms echo the garlic notes from the steak’s sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Coleslaw: A crunchy side with a tangy kick, coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, juicy meat.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing introduce a delightful crunch and richness that complements the steak wonderfully.
Red Wine: A deep, full-bodied cabernet sauvignon pairs beautifully, its tannins cutting through the richness of the steak for a harmonious experience.
Chocolate Flourless Cake: End the meal with a luscious dessert that’s rich and satisfying, echoing the indulgence of your main dish.
Impress your guests by thoughtfully curating a selection that balances flavors, textures, and temperatures for a perfect feast!
Expert Tips for the Tomahawk Steak Grill Recipe
Choose Quality Meat: Select a well-marbled tomahawk steak for optimum flavor. Quality cut makes all the difference in this grill recipe.
Mind the Temperature: Let the steak sit out for an hour before grilling to ensure it cooks evenly; this prevents the outside from burning while the inside remains rare.
Monitor with a Probe: Use a meat probe to track the temperature accurately. Aim for 115 – 120 degrees F before the final sear to avoid overcooking.
Don’t Rush the Rest: Resting is essential! Allowing the steak to rest for 10 minutes ensures juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
Sear to Perfectly Finish: Searing it at a higher temperature adds a delicious crust. Sear longer if you prefer a charred flavor, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Tomahawk Steak Grill Recipe Variations
Feel free to make this tomahawk steak grill recipe your own by exploring these exciting variations!
Herbed Butter:
Combine fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with the garlic butter for an aromatic twist. The added freshness enhances the richness beautifully.Spicy Garlic:
Add crushed red pepper flakes to your garlic butter for a spicy kick. This fiery addition dances on the palate without overpowering the steak’s natural taste.Balsamic Glaze:
Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the cooked steak for a sweet and tangy flavor boost. The glaze will elevate your steak experience to gourmet heights!Citrus Marinade:
Marinate the steak with a mix of orange and lemon juice plus zest for a zesty brightness. This touch gives a refreshing contrast to the rich meat flavors.Smoked Paprika:
Sprinkle smoked paprika over the steak before grilling for an additional depth of smoky flavor. It pairs perfectly with that grilled goodness and adds a delightful complexity.Cheese Topping:
Finish the steak with crumbled blue cheese or aged cheddar before serving. The creamy, tangy cheese melts slightly, creating a heavenly topping.Sous Vide and Sear:
For ultimate tenderness, try cooking the steak sous vide before finishing it on the grill. The gentle cooking method guarantees a perfectly even and exquisite result.Wood Chip Infusion:
Experiment with different wood chips like hickory or cherry to infuse unique smoky flavors into your steak. This subtle method adds layers of deliciousness to the classic grill experience.
Make Ahead Options
These tomahawk steak grill recipes are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can season the tomahawk steak with kosher salt and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. This not only saves you time on grilling day but also enhances the meat’s natural flavors through the marinating process. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter (just warm butter with minced garlic) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to grill, simply take the steak out of the fridge to come to room temperature for 1 hour, then proceed with grilling and finishing touches as outlined in the recipe for a mouthwatering meal that’s just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Tomahawk Steak
Room Temperature: Keep cooked tomahawk steak at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in foil to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steak wrapped in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results, then reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet for juicy, tender bites—perfect for savoring that delicious tomahawk steak grill recipe!
Tomahawk Steak Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select a tomahawk steak?
Absolutely! Look for a tomahawk steak that has a good amount of marbling—these intramuscular fats are key to flavor and tenderness. The meat should be bright red in color. Additionally, avoid any steaks with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging, as these could indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftovers from my tomahawk steak?
Leftover tomahawk steak can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil to keep it moist. I often recommend putting it in the fridge promptly after it has cooled down to ensure safety and freshness!
Can I freeze cooked tomahawk steak?
Definitely! For freezing, wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can escape, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping prevents freezer burn and will keep the steak good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
What troubleshooting tips do you have for overcooked steak?
If you accidentally overcook your steak, don’t worry! You can slice it thinly and serve it with a homemade sauce, like a chimichurri or spicy aioli, to add moisture and flavor. Also, consider mixing it into a stew or pasta dish, as the sauce will help mask any dryness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with tomahawk steak?
Very much! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, consider that red meat can be tough on some digestive systems, and it’s high in cholesterol. For any pets around, keep in mind that steak is not suitable for dogs or cats due to its richness and seasoning. Always check for allergies if using garlic in the butter, as it can be harmful to pets like dogs and cats.
How do I ensure my tomahawk steak is perfectly cooked?
For perfect doneness, use a meat probe thermometer. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; you want it to reach around 115-120°F during the initial cook. Once it rests and you sear it afterwards, the temperature will rise to your desired level—medium rare is usually about 135°F. After resting, slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Savor the Flavor: Ultimate Tomahawk Steak Grill Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator 1 hour prior to grilling and let it rest on the counter.
- Set your grill to a steady 225 degrees F.
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with kosher salt.
- Transfer the tomahawk steak to the preheated grill. Insert the meat probe and close the lid.
- Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of about 115 - 120 degrees F, around 45 to 55 minutes.
- Once done, remove the steak from the grill, tent it with aluminum foil, and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Raise the grill temperature to about 450 degrees F in preparation for that perfect sear.
- Decide whether to sear the steak in a cast iron pan or directly on the grill grates.
- Sear the steak on all sides for about 1 minute each.
- Take the steak off the grill and let it relax for a moment.
- In a small cast iron pan, warm the butter on the grill. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
- Strain the garlic from the butter if desired, then carve the steak and pour the garlic butter over the top.
- Plate your impressive tomahawk steak, and get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite!