If you’re looking to impress at your next dinner or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality steak at home, cooking a tomahawk steak is the way to go. This impressive, bone-in ribeye cut is not only a feast for the eyes but also packs incredible flavor and tenderness. Wondering how to cook a tomahawk steak perfectly? Let’s dive into a simple, foolproof method that will have you slicing into juicy, buttery meat every time.
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye beef steak specifically cut with at least five inches of rib bone left intact. This long bone gives it a distinctive “handle” appearance, resembling a tomahawk axe. It’s thick, juicy, and well-marbled, making it ideal for grilling or pan-searing.
Preparing Your Tomahawk Steak
1. Bring to Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge about 30-60 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
2. Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with a paper towel. Then rub it with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder or dried herbs like rosemary and thyme. Some chefs recommend dry brining by seasoning the steak and refrigerating it uncovered for several hours or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Cooking Methods for Tomahawk Steak
Method 1: Reverse Sear (Oven + Skillet or Grill)
This is a popular method for thick steaks like tomahawk.
– Step 1: Preheat your oven or grill to a low temperature (around 225°F). Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on the grill away from direct heat. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part.
– Step 2: Cook slowly until the internal temperature reaches about 110-115°F for medium-rare (this can take 45-75 minutes depending on thickness).
– Step 3: Remove from oven/grill and let rest for 10 minutes.
– Step 4: Heat a skillet or grill to very high heat (400°F or more). Add oil or butter and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Baste with butter, garlic, and herbs during searing for extra flavor.
– Step 5: Rest the steak again for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Method 2: Grill Directly with Two-Zone Heat
– Preheat your grill to high heat (about 400°F).
– Sear the tomahawk steak over direct heat for 5 minutes per side to develop a crust.
– Move the steak to indirect heat, cover, and cook for another 7-10 minutes until it reaches your desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
– Rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Method 3: Pan Sear and Oven Finish
– Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat with olive oil.
– Sear the steak for 3 minutes per side without moving it to get a nice crust.
– Add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan and baste the steak while searing the second side.
– Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 500°F and roast for 3-4 minutes until the butter is sizzling and the steak reaches medium-rare.
– Rest before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Tomahawk Steak
– Use a meat thermometer: To avoid guesswork, check the internal temperature. Medium-rare is 130-135°F after resting.
– Rest the steak: Resting lets juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and tender. Don’t skip this step.
– Cut against the grain: This ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
– Compound butter: Enhance flavor by topping your steak with herb or garlic butter. Melted butter seeps into the meat and adds richness.
– Clean the bone: If you want a nice presentation, wrap the bone in foil or brush it to keep it clean while cooking.
Simple Herb Butter Recipe to Finish Your Steak
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tbsp chopped parsley
– 1-2 crushed garlic cloves
– Pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients and spread over the hot steak just before serving for a delicious, buttery finish.
Serving Suggestions
Tomahawk steak is a showstopper, so keep sides simple to let the meat shine. Classic options include grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking a tomahawk steak is easier than you think with the right preparation and technique. Whether you choose reverse sear, grill, or pan-sear methods, the key is seasoning well, cooking to the right temperature, and letting the steak rest. Add a touch of herb butter for that extra wow factor, and you’re ready to enjoy a juicy, tender steakhouse-quality meal at home.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked tomahawk steak!
Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, a tomahawk steak is a feast worth mastering. With these simple steps, you’ll impress every time.