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Tomahawk steak, often referred to as the king of steaks, is a showstopper. Its size, tenderness, and rich flavor make it a favorite among steak lovers. But what exactly is a tomahawk steak, and how can you cook it to perfection? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing and cooking tomahawk steak, whether you’re grilling, searing, or roasting it in the oven.

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What is a Tomahawk Steak?
A tomahawk steak is a bone-in ribeye that is known for its long, French-trimmed bone, resembling a tomahawk axe. This cut is essentially a ribeye steak with the rib bone left intact. The presence of the bone not only makes it visually impressive but also adds a depth of flavor that is hard to beat.
Why is Tomahawk Steak So Expensive?
The tomahawk steak is one of the most luxurious cuts of beef, and its price reflects that. The reasons for its high cost include the quality of the meat, the labor-intensive trimming process, and the sheer size of the cut. The long bone, which can be up to 20 inches, adds a unique presentation that is often the centerpiece of any dinner table.

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking the Perfect Tomahawk Steak-infoddblog.com
How to Choose a Tomahawk Steak
When choosing a tomahawk steak, you want to look for marbling—the white flecks of fat within the meat. Marbling is a key indicator of flavor and tenderness. The more marbling, the more flavorful the steak will be. Additionally, make sure that the meat is bright red and firm to the touch.
Tomahawk Steak vs. Ribeye: What’s the Difference?
While the tomahawk steak and ribeye come from the same section of the cow, the primary difference lies in the presentation. The ribeye is cut away from the bone, while the tomahawk steak is served with the bone intact. This bone not only adds visual appeal but also improves the flavor profile of the steak.
How to Cook Tomahawk Steak: The Ultimate Guide
There are several methods to cook a tomahawk steak, each bringing out different flavors and textures. Below are the most popular methods:
1. Grilling Tomahawk Steak
Grilling is one of the best ways to cook a tomahawk steak, as it allows you to achieve a smoky flavor and a beautiful sear. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tomahawk steak
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Season the Steak: Generously season the steak with kosher salt and black pepper. For an added flavor boost, you can use a custom tomahawk steak seasoning mix or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high. You want the grill to be around 450°F (232°C) for a nice sear.
- Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the grill and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Cook Indirectly: Move the steak to the cooler side of the grill and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until it reaches your desired internal temperature.
- Rest and Serve: Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.
2. Tomahawk Steak Oven Method
If you don’t have access to a grill or prefer a different cooking method, you can cook your tomahawk steak in the oven. This method is perfect for achieving a consistent temperature throughout the steak.
Ingredients:
- 1 tomahawk steak
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the Steak: In a large cast-iron skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Roast the Steak: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature (see below for temperature guidelines).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
3. Reverse Sear Tomahawk Steak
The reverse sear method is ideal for achieving a perfectly cooked steak with a consistent doneness from edge to edge. Here’s how to do it:
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (121°C).
- Cook the Steak: Place the steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and cook in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 110°F (43°C).
- Sear the Steak: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat with a bit of oil. Sear the steak on all sides until a deep crust forms.
- Rest and Serve: Let the steak rest before slicing.

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Tomahawk Steak Cooking Time and Temperature Guide
Cooking time for a tomahawk steak will vary based on the thickness of the meat and your desired level of doneness. Here’s a quick guide:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
For a thick cut like a tomahawk steak, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to make sure accurate results.
Tomahawk Steak Marinade and Seasoning
While a simple salt and pepper seasoning works wonders on a tomahawk steak, you can the flavor by using a marinade. Here’s a basic marinade :
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Cook the Steak: Follow your preferred cooking method.
Best Tomahawk Steak Restaurants
If you’re not in the mood to cook, many high-end restaurants offer tomahawk steak on their menu. These steaks are often cooked to perfection by expert chefs and are served with luxurious sides. Some of the best tomahawk steak restaurants include:
- CUT by Wolfgang Puck – Known for its exceptional quality and cooking techniques.
- STK Steakhouse – A trendy spot offering a modern take on classic steakhouse fare.
- The Capital Grille – Famous for its dry-aged steaks and elegant ambiance.
What to Serve with Tomahawk Steak
A tomahawk steak is rich and hearty, so you’ll want to serve it with sides that complement its bold flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, mashed potatoes are the perfect comfort food side.
- Grilled Asparagus: Adds a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the steak.
- Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: Earthy and savory, these mushrooms pair beautifully with steak.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
Note: Tomahawk Steak
Cooking the perfect tomahawk steak is an art, but with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can master it at home. Whether you choose to grill, sear, or roast your steak, the key is to start with a high-quality cut and season it well. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
So, next time you’re planning a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to something special, consider the tomahawk steak. With its impressive size, rich flavor, and tender texture, it’s the ultimate steak experience.
Trendy Tomahawk Steak Recipe: Honey-Garlic Butter Basted Tomahawk Steak

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking the Perfect Tomahawk Steak-infoddblog.com
This puts a trendy twist on the classic tomahawk steak by incorporating a sweet and savory honey-garlic butter basting. The combination of rich, caramelized flavors with the robust taste of a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak makes this dish both indulgent and unforgettable. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests with a modern take on a steakhouse favorite.
Honey-Garlic Butter Basted Tomahawk Steak

Ingredients
- 1 tomahawk steak about 2 inches thick
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary leaves
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Steak:
- Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes.
- Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for around 450°F (232°C). You can also use a cast-iron skillet if you prefer to cook indoors.
- Sear the Steak:
- Lightly coat the steak with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the steak on the hot grill (or skillet) and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- After searing, move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat on the skillet.
- Prepare the Honey-Garlic Butter:
- While the steak is cooking, prepare the honey-garlic butter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Baste the Steak:
- Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat the steak with the honey-garlic butter mixture. Baste the steak every 5 minutes as it continues to cook.
- Cook the steak until it reaches your desired internal temperature (see guide below).
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the steak has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the grill or skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain and drizzle with any remaining honey-garlic butter.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C) and above