how to cook a tomahawk steak
Standing in front of the butcher shop’s gleaming display, I saw the tomahawk steak. Its size and the long bone in the middle caught my eye. The rich, marbled texture looked elegant and sophisticated. I knew I had to cook it perfectly.
Cooking a tomahawk steak is a challenge worth taking. Whether you’re an expert griller or a home cook wanting to wow guests, this guide is for you. It will show you how to get that perfect sear and a juicy inside. With practice, your kitchen will become a steakhouse, offering a memorable meal to your family and friends.
Let’s start exploring the tomahawk steak, one delicious bite at a time.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Tomahawk Steak
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is a big, thick, bone-in ribeye steak with the bone still attached. It’s also called a cowboy steak or frenched beef ribeye. The bone makes it look like it has a handle, making it stand out.
This steak comes from the rib section of the cow. It’s known for being rich, flavorful, and tender.
Usually, a tomahawk steak is 2 inches thick and 8 to 20 inches long. It’s big enough for two people. Since 2008, it’s become a favorite among grillers and steak lovers.
The tomahawk steak is famous for its marbling and tenderness. It’s a prime-grade or Wagyu cut. Cooking it over high heat makes the outside crispy and flavorful.
A 2 to 2 ½ pound tomahawk rib steak has about 1179 calories. It has 114g of protein, 80g of fat, and 36g of saturated fat. It also has 346mg of cholesterol and 295mg of sodium.
It’s packed with nutrients like 1520mg of potassium, 85IU of Vitamin A, 40mg of calcium, and 10mg of iron.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
When picking a tomahawk steak, look for one that’s well-marbled and 1 3/4 to 2 inches thick. It should have a bright red color and no blemishes. It’s crucial to buy from a trusted source, as the meat’s quality greatly affects the dish. Many places may need to order a tomahawk ribeye steak for you, so plan ahead.
The tomahawk steak is a thick bone-in ribeye steak with a big rib bone attached. This makes it look amazing. The bone on a tomahawk steak is usually 12 inches or more, unlike a cowboy steak’s bone which is just a few inches.
When shopping for tomahawk steaks, look for ones with plenty of meat and a good meat-to-bone ratio. This ensures you get quality and taste. Also, make sure the steak has consistent marbling for the best flavor.
| Steak Doneness | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125ºF |
| Medium-rare | 135ºF |
| Medium | 145ºF |
| Medium-well | 155ºF |
Tomahawk steaks usually weigh between 30 oz to 60 oz. Most are between 48 oz and 60 oz.
Platforms like TikTok have made tomahawk steaks popular. People now look for them at local stores and restaurants. Buying a high-quality tomahawk steak from a trusted source will make your meal unforgettable.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Seasoning and Marinating
Before cooking your tomahawk steak, prepare it well. Start by seasoning the meat with kosher salt and black pepper. Use about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of steak. This enhances the meat’s natural flavors and ensures even cooking.
After seasoning, let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. This step helps the meat cook more evenly.
For extra flavor, marinate the steak. Mix herbs, spices, and acidic ingredients like wine or vinegar. Let it soak for up to 4 hours. But, avoid over-marinating to prevent toughness. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and dried herbs is great.
Seasoning and marinating your tomahawk steak right sets the stage for a delicious meal.
“The key to a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak is all in the preparation. Seasoning it well and allowing it to come to room temperature before cooking will ensure the best possible results.”
Cooking Methods for a Tomahawk Steak
Preparing a Tomahawk steak can be done in several ways. Each method has its own benefits. You can get a perfect sear, tender texture, and great flavor.
Grilling a Tomahawk Steak
Grilling a Tomahawk steak over high heat makes a tasty, caramelized crust. It also keeps the steak’s juices inside. Make sure your grill is hot before grilling. Sear the steak on all sides, flipping it every 5 minutes.
Once it’s at 95-100°F, sear it directly over the heat for 1 minute. This gives it a crisp, flavorful outside.
Pan-Searing and Reverse Searing
Pan-searing and reverse searing are great for Tomahawk steaks. Start by searing the steak in a hot cast-iron pan for 3 minutes per side. This creates a beautiful brown crust.
Then, move the steak to a 350°F oven. Cook until it’s at your desired doneness, usually 9-10 minutes for medium-rare.
Oven-Roasting a Tomahawk Steak
Oven-roasting a Tomahawk steak cooks it evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, raise it to 425°F once the steak is in. Cook until it’s at 100°F, which takes 60-75 minutes.
Let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
No matter the method, keep an eye on the steak’s internal temperature. Adjust the cooking time to get it just right. With the right technique, you’ll have a delicious Tomahawk steak with great marbling and flavor.
Grilling a Tomahawk Steak
Preparing the Grill
Grilling a tomahawk steak needs the right grill setup. First, heat your grill to 400°F. This high heat creates a tasty crust on the steak. Clean the grates with tongs and brush them with oil to stop the steak from sticking.
The tomahawk steak is thick, about 2 inches, making it perfect for a good sear and juicy inside. It’s pricier than other steaks because of its size, great for special events. It’s not for everyday meals.
Now, it’s time to grill the steak. Place it on the hot grates and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, move it to a cooler spot and cook until it’s just right. A medium-rare tomahawk steak should be 120 degrees Fahrenheit and takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook.
Keep the grill lid closed to keep the heat in and add smoky flavor. Let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices spread evenly.
“A well-marbled tomahawk steak with white flecks of fat throughout the meat is considered one of the keys to a delicious tomahawk steak. A choice or prime grade is indicative of a good-flavored tomahawk steak due to the fat content in the meat.”
Pan-Searing and Reverse Searing
Two cooking methods can make your tomahawk steak taste amazing: pan-searing and reverse searing. Each way brings out the steak’s natural flavors and texture. You’ll get a delicious result that shows off the steak’s beauty.
Pan-Searing a Tomahawk Steak
Start by heating a big skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a bit of oil like canola or grapeseed. Put the tomahawk steak in the pan and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This creates a tasty crust.
After searing, move the pan to a preheated oven. Cook the steak until it’s done to your liking. It usually takes 45 to 55 minutes to cook it to 115°F (43°C).
Reverse Searing a Tomahawk Steak
Start by cooking the steak in the oven until it’s almost done. For a medium-rare, aim for 95°F (35°C) before searing.
Take the steak out of the oven and let it rest for 8 to 10 minutes. This lets the juices spread evenly, making the steak juicy and tender. Then, sear it in a hot pan or on the grill at 450 to 500°F (232 to 260°C). Sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes to get a nice crust.
Both pan-searing and reverse searing make great steaks. Choose the method that fits your taste and cooking style. Try them out to see which one you like best.
| Cooking Method | Time and Temperature | Ideal Doneness |
|---|---|---|
| Pan-Searing | 3-4 minutes per side in a hot skillet, then 45-55 minutes in the oven at 115°F (43°C) | Medium-rare to medium |
| Reverse Searing | Oven at 95°F (35°C) until 30 degrees below final doneness, then 1-2 minutes per side searing at 450-500°F (232-260°C) | Rare to medium-rare |
Oven-Roasting a Tomahawk Steak
Oven-roasting a tomahawk steak is a great way to get a delicious, evenly-cooked piece of meat. Start by heating your oven to a hot 425°F. Then, sear the steak in a hot skillet or pan over high heat on the stovetop. This step creates a flavorful crust before moving the pan to the oven.
For a perfect oven-roasted tomahawk steak, keep an eye on the internal temperature. It usually takes 9-10 minutes to reach your desired doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the steak’s temperature at the right time.
Temperature and Timing
The thickness of a tomahawk steak is important for cooking time. A 2-inch thick steak should cook for about 9-10 minutes in a 425°F oven. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked just right.
“The bone-in tomahawk rib-eye is cut from between the sixth and 12th rib of the cow, and the bone on a tomahawk steak is usually 5 to 8 inches long, providing a classic ‘handle’ for the steak.”
Remember, the steak’s temperature will rise a bit after it’s out of the oven. So, take it out a few degrees before your desired doneness. After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting and Carving the Tomahawk Steak
After cooking your tomahawk steak to perfection, it’s time to let it rest. This step is key for the juices to spread evenly. This makes the meat tender and full of flavor. Let your steak rest for 10-15 minutes before you slice and serve it.
To carve, place the steak with the bone parallel to your cutting board’s edge. Use a sharp knife to slice against the grain. This way, each bite is tender and easy to chew. Serve with pan sauce or compound butter for extra flavor.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Thickness of Tomahawk Steaks | 2-1/2″ |
| Weight of Tomahawk Steaks | 45 oz each |
| Time steaks were seasoned before cooking | 9 hours |
| Time steaks were left in the fridge before cooking | 7 hours |
| Temperature used for low heat portion of the cook | 225°F |
| Internal temperature target for medium rare | 130°F |
| Approximate temperature increase during resting | 5°F to 6°F |
| Duration of searing the steaks | Approximately 4 minutes |
| Internal temperature of steaks after searing | 133°F and 135°F |
| Estimated serving size for two 45 oz Tomahawk Steaks | 5 to 6 people |
Resting and carving your tomahawk steak right is key to enjoying its full flavor and tenderness. By following these steps, you’ll create a meal that will wow your guests.
how to cook a tomahawk steak
Learning to cook a tomahawk steak can boost your cooking skills and wow your guests. This cut is known for its size, tenderness, and flavor. You can grill, pan-sear, reverse sear, or roast it. This guide will show you how to cook it perfectly.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
Choose a tomahawk steak with a deep red color and lots of marbling. It should feel firm but spring back when pressed. Prices vary, from $2.17 to $5.54 per ounce, depending on quality and where you buy it.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Let the steak come to room temperature for about 45 minutes before cooking. Season it well with salt and pepper. You can also add spices or a marinade for extra flavor. Cook it to 130°F for the best taste, though some like it rarer or more well-done.
Cooking Methods
There are many ways to cook a tomahawk steak. Grilling, pan-searing, reverse searing, or roasting all work well. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and get it just right.
Resting and Serving
Let the steak rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This makes it juicy and flavorful. Serve it with sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
Follow these steps to cook a tomahawk steak like a pro. Enjoy its impressive look and delicious taste.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
The tomahawk steak is a grand main course that needs impressive sides. Think about these tasty sides to go with the bold flavors and tender beef of this cut.
Delicious Accompaniments
For a classic steakhouse feel, pair your tomahawk steak with creamy mashed potatoes. Add roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts and a crisp wedge salad. For extra indulgence, top the steak with compound butter flavored with herbs and garlic. A full-bodied red wine, like cabernet sauvignon, pairs perfectly.
Other great side dish options for your serving suggestions tomahawk steak include:
- Truffle Mac and Cheese
- Creamed Spinach
- Twice-Baked Potatoes
- Garlic Herb Mushrooms
- Grilled Baby Carrots
- Balsamic Roasted Beets
- Charred Corn on the Cob
- Blue Cheese Wedge Salad
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Loaded Sweet Potato Skins
- Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
- Cilantro Lime Rice
- Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Steaks
These sides for tomahawk steak bring a variety of tastes and textures. They make your tomahawk steak dinner a true feast for the senses.
Conclusion
Learning to cook a how to cook a tomahawk steak is rewarding. This guide offers step-by-step instructions and expert tips. You can make a tomahawk steak recipe that rivals restaurant quality. Impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.
Choose to grill, pan-sear, reverse sear, or oven-roast your steak. The key is to focus on details. This includes seasoning, temperature control, resting, and carving the meat.
With practice, you’ll enjoy the full flavor and tender texture of this impressive beef cut. Tomahawk steaks offer a unique dining experience. They have a distinctive rib bone and plenty of marbling.
By understanding this premium steak and following the best practices, you’ll master cooking a how to cook a tomahawk steak. You’ll impress your guests with your culinary skills.
This guide is for both seasoned home cooks and beginners. It gives you the essential information and techniques to improve your steak-cooking skills. Embrace the challenge, try different cooking methods and flavors, and enjoy the delicious results. Bon appétit!