How Long to Grill a Tomahawk Steak in 5 Easy Steps

To grill a tomahawk steak perfectly, start by choosing a thick cut with good marbling and bring it to room temperature. Set your grill with two zones: high heat for searing and a cooler side for indirect cooking. Sear the steak 2-3 minutes per side, then move it to the cooler zone for 15-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and let it rest before slicing. Follow these steps, and you’ll discover even more tips to elevate your steak game.

Choose and Prep the Right Tomahawk Steak

Selecting the right tomahawk steak sets the foundation for a perfect grill. You want a thick cut, ideally 2 inches or more, with a generous amount of marbling. This fat will keep your steak juicy and flavorful as it cooks.

Look for bright red meat and a long, Frenched bone that adds to the presentation and helps with even cooking. Once you’ve picked your steak, bring it to room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes before grilling. This step ensures it cooks evenly.

Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season it generously with salt and pepper. Proper preparation lets the natural flavors shine while helping you achieve that beautiful crust on the grill.

Set Up Your Grill for Grilling a Tomahawk Steak

To get the best results when grilling your tomahawk steak, set up a two-zone fire on your grill. This means arranging your coals or burners so one side is hot for searing, while the other stays cooler for indirect cooking.

Start by heating one zone to high heat, around 450-500°F, perfect for creating that crusty sear. Leave the other zone at a lower temperature, about 250-300°F, to finish cooking the steak gently.

Make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Preheat the grill for 10-15 minutes to stabilize the temperature.

Having this setup ready helps you control the cooking process, ensuring your tomahawk steak cooks evenly without burning.

Grilling Time: How Long to Cook Your Tomahawk Steak

Once your grill is properly set up with the two-zone fire, you can focus on timing your tomahawk steak to perfection.

Start by searing the steak over direct heat for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.

After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill to cook slowly. Depending on the thickness, grill it indirectly for about 15 to 25 minutes.

Remember, thicker cuts need more time, so adjust accordingly. Avoid flipping too often; one or two turns are enough.

Keep the lid closed to maintain consistent heat. By managing your grill zones and timing, you’ll ensure your tomahawk steak cooks evenly without burning or undercooking.

How to Check Doneness and Rest Your Tomahawk Steak

How can you tell when your tomahawk steak has reached the perfect doneness? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for well-done.

Insert the probe into the thickest part without touching the bone for an accurate reading. Avoid cutting into the steak early, as it releases juices and dries out the meat.

Once your steak hits the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.

Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm without steaming. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak.

How to Serve and Enjoy Your Grilled Tomahawk Steak

Nothing beats the satisfaction of slicing into a perfectly grilled tomahawk steak. To serve it right, start by cutting against the grain into thick, juicy slices. This keeps each bite tender and flavorful.

Arrange the slices on a warm platter to keep them hot. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a pat of herb butter to enhance the rich, smoky flavor.

Pair your steak with simple sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the meal. Don’t forget a bold red wine or your favorite craft beer to complement the steak’s robust taste.

Most importantly, savor each bite slowly — you’ve earned it after grilling such a show-stopping cut!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Marinate a Tomahawk Steak Before Grilling?

Yes, you can marinate a tomahawk steak before grilling. It’ll enhance the flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to marinate it for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for deeper taste, then pat it dry before cooking.

What Type of Wood Chips Enhance Tomahawk Steak Flavor?

You’ll love using hickory or mesquite wood chips—they boost smoky flavor by up to 40%. Applewood and cherry add a sweeter, fruity touch, making your tomahawk steak taste even more mouthwatering and memorable.

How Do I Store Leftover Tomahawk Steak Properly?

You should let your leftover tomahawk steak cool, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and eat within 3-4 days for the best flavor and safety.

Is It Better to Grill a Tomahawk Steak Bone-In or Boneless?

It’s better to grill a tomahawk steak bone-in because the bone adds flavor and helps the meat cook more evenly. You’ll get juicier, more tender results compared to boneless cuts. Don’t skip the bone!

Can I Sous Vide a Tomahawk Steak Before Grilling?

You absolutely can sous vide a tomahawk steak before grilling—it’s like giving your steak a spa day! This method ensures perfect doneness and juicy tenderness before you finish it off with that smoky, crispy crust.

Conclusion

By choosing the perfect tomahawk steak and setting up your grill just right, you’ll find that grilling it to juicy perfection takes only a little patience—about 15 minutes or so. As you check for that ideal doneness and let it rest, imagine the sizzle coinciding with the sunset, creating a moment you won’t forget. When you finally slice in, the flavor and satisfaction will surprise you every time. Enjoy that juicy reward!