If you’re looking to impress your guests or just elevate your cooking game, a Tomahawk steak is an excellent choice. Known for its impressive size, tender meat, and dramatic bone, the Tomahawk steak is often called the “cowboy ribeye” due to its resemblance to a tomahawk axe. But the question is: how do you cook a Tomahawk steak to perfection?
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know to cook a Tomahawk steak like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this step-by-step guide will help you create a mouthwatering steak that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Along the way, we will also introduce you to some pro tips and tricks to make your Tomahawk steak experience even better.
Let’s dive in and discover the secret to cooking the perfect Tomahawk steak!
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first understand what a Tomahawk steak is.
A Tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye steak with a long, Frenched bone (which means the meat is scraped off the bone) that gives it the appearance of a tomahawk axe. It’s cut from the rib section of the cow and is usually around 2 to 3 inches thick. Due to its large size and dramatic presentation, the Tomahawk steak is often considered a showstopper at dinner parties or special occasions.
Because the Tomahawk steak is so thick, it requires a bit more time and attention to cook correctly. But don’t worry! With the right techniques, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect steak every time.
Tomahawk Steak Recipe Ingredients
The beauty of a Tomahawk steak lies in its simplicity. Here’s a list of basic ingredients that you’ll need to cook a delicious Tomahawk steak:
- 1 Tomahawk steak (2-3 inches thick)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage)
- Garlic cloves (optional)
- Butter (for basting, optional)
Optional Marinade Ingredients:
- Soy sauce (for an umami boost)
- Worcestershire sauce (for extra depth of flavor)
- Honey (for a slight sweetness)
- Chopped garlic (for added flavor)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (for aromatic goodness)
While these ingredients are simple, their flavors are elevated when combined with the quality of the steak and the cooking techniques.
How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak: Step-by-Step Recipe
Cooking a Tomahawk steak might sound intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. By following this simple recipe, you’ll be able to create a steak that rivals even the best steakhouses.
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
The first thing you’ll need to do is bring the Tomahawk steak to room temperature. This is a critical step to ensure that the steak cooks evenly. Take your Tomahawk steak out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 30-45 minutes.
While the steak is resting, you can prepare the seasoning. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy sear.
Next, generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The seasoning should be evenly distributed to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. You can also add fresh herbs or garlic to the seasoning mix, or rub them directly onto the meat for extra aroma.
Step 2: Searing the Steak (Pan-Seared or Grilled)
There are two popular ways to cook a Tomahawk steak: on the grill or in a cast-iron skillet. Both methods are fantastic, but we’ll walk you through each one so you can decide which one suits you best.
Method 1: Grilling the Tomahawk Steak
If you’re cooking your Tomahawk steak on the grill, it’s best to set it up for two-zone cooking (direct and indirect heat). Preheat the grill to a high temperature, around 450-500°F. Once the grill is ready, place the Tomahawk steak over the direct heat to sear it.
Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, turning it a quarter turn halfway through to get that perfect grill mark pattern. This initial sear creates a beautiful crust while locking in all the juices. After the steak is seared on both sides, move it to the indirect heat side of the grill to finish cooking. Close the lid and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally. Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the steak.
Method 2: Pan-Searing in a Cast Iron Skillet
If you’re opting for a skillet, heat a heavy cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the steak in the pan. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Use tongs to flip the steak, pressing down gently to ensure good contact with the pan.
Once the steak is seared on both sides, add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan. Use a spoon to continuously baste the steak with the melted butter and juices. This step will enhance the flavor and keep the steak moist.
After basting for a few minutes, transfer the steak to a preheated oven (around 400°F) to finish cooking. Roast for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
How to Check the Perfect Doneness
To make sure your Tomahawk steak is cooked to perfection, you’ll need to know how to check the doneness. The best way to do this is by using a meat thermometer.
Here are the temperature guidelines for your ideal steak doneness:
- Rare: 120°F-130°F
- Medium-Rare: 130°F-140°F
- Medium: 140°F-150°F
- Medium-Well: 150°F-160°F
- Well-Done: 160°F+
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also use the finger test for doneness, but using a thermometer will ensure the most accurate result.
Resting the Steak
Once your Tomahawk steak is done, it’s crucial to let it rest. Allowing the steak to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking will help redistribute the juices, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. This also gives the steak a chance to finish cooking from residual heat.
While your steak is resting, you can prepare any side dishes or sauces you’d like to serve with your meal.
Tomahawk Steak Recipe Tips and Tricks
Cooking a Tomahawk steak can be a bit tricky if you’re new to it, but don’t worry – we’ve got some pro tips to ensure that you succeed every time.
1. Don’t Skip the Seasoning
The Tomahawk steak has rich, beefy flavors, and seasoning it properly is key to bringing out its natural taste. Make sure to season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
2. Use the Reverse Sear Method
If you want to really get that perfect edge-to-edge cooking, try the reverse sear method. This involves cooking the steak on low heat first (either in the oven or on the grill) and then searing it at the end for that crispy exterior.
3. Don’t Overcook It
A Tomahawk steak is thick, and it can be tempting to cook it well-done, but resist the urge! A medium-rare to medium steak will give you the perfect balance of juicy tenderness and flavor.
4. Use a Cast Iron Skillet for Searing
A cast iron skillet works wonders when searing the steak. The even heat distribution allows for a perfect sear without burning the meat. If you don’t have a cast-iron pan, any heavy skillet will do, but cast iron is preferred for its heat retention.
5. Baste with Butter for Extra Flavor
Basting the steak with butter, garlic, and herbs will elevate the flavor. It adds richness and an aromatic finish that’ll make your Tomahawk steak even more irresistible.
Conclusion
Cooking a Tomahawk steak may seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right technique, you can make this showstopper look and taste amazing. Whether you’re grilling it or searing it in a cast iron skillet, the key to a perfect Tomahawk steak is patience and attention to detail. By following our step-by-step Tomahawk steak recipe, you’ll have a tender, juicy, and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress.
Now that you know how to cook a Tomahawk steak, it’s time to get into the kitchen and start cooking. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a luxurious meal, a Tomahawk steak is always a great choice. For another amazing cut of beef, check out our guide on Alcatra Recipe for a delicious alternative!
Enjoy your cooking journey, and remember to take your time with each step for the best results. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To grill a Tomahawk steak, preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F). Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side over direct heat, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking, about 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
Yes, you can cook a Tomahawk steak in a cast-iron skillet. Sear it for 3-4 minutes on each side over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the oven (400°F) to finish cooking. Baste with butter and garlic for extra flavor.
The best doneness for a Tomahawk steak is typically medium-rare or medium. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F-140°F. Adjust according to your personal preference.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For rare, aim for 120°F-130°F, medium-rare for 130°F-140°F, and medium for 140°F-150°F.
It’s best to thaw your Tomahawk steak before cooking. If cooking from frozen, use the reverse sear method: cook the steak slowly in the oven until it reaches your desired internal temperature and then sear it in a hot skillet.
