Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Remove the tomahawk steaks from the refrigerator and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Trim any excessively thick pieces of exterior fat if necessary, but leave enough fat to enhance the flavor.
Rub both sides with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season the steaks generously on all sides, including the edges.
For deeper seasoning, you can season the steaks several hours ahead and refrigerate them uncovered. If you do this, pat away any surface moisture before grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill for two-zone cooking. Set one side to low or medium-low heat for indirect cooking and the other side to high heat for searing.
For a charcoal grill, arrange the hot coals on one side, leaving the other side without direct coals. For a gas grill, turn on one or two burners and leave the remaining side off.
This setup allows the thick steaks to cook gradually before developing their dark, flavorful crust.
Step 3: Cook Over Indirect Heat
Place the tomahawk steaks on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct flames. Close the lid and cook slowly, turning occasionally.
Cooking time depends on the thickness of the steaks, the grill temperature, and your preferred doneness. For thick tomahawk steaks, this stage may take approximately 30–60 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. For medium-rare, remove the steaks from indirect heat when they reach approximately 110–115°F (43–46°C), then sear them over high heat. Adjust this approach for your preferred final doneness.
Step 4: Sear for a Beautiful Crust
Move the steaks over the hottest part of the grill. Sear for approximately 1–3 minutes per side, turning as needed to create a deep brown crust with attractive grill marks.
Sear the edges briefly as well, especially the fatty portions. Watch carefully for flare-ups, as dripping fat can cause sudden flames.
For food safety, whole beef steaks should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a rest of at least 3 minutes. Check the temperature in the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone.
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter
During the final moments of cooking, melt the butter in a small pan with the crushed garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
Spoon the fragrant garlic butter over the steaks or brush it onto the surface immediately after grilling. The warm butter adds richness and complements the smoky flavor of the beef.
Step 6: Let the Steaks Rest
Transfer the grilled tomahawk steaks to a cutting board. Let them rest for about 10–15 minutes, loosely tented with foil.
Resting allows the temperature to even out and helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. The steaks may continue cooking slightly during this time, so account for carryover cooking when checking doneness.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Place the rested steak on a large cutting board. Cut the meat away from the long bone, then slice it across the grain into thick strips.
Arrange the slices on a warm serving platter and drizzle with the remaining garlic butter and juices from the cutting board.
Serve immediately while the meat is warm, tender, and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Tomahawk Steaks
- Dry the surface: Patting the meat dry helps develop a better seared crust.
- Use indirect heat: Thick steaks benefit from gradual cooking before searing.
- Check the temperature: A reliable instant-read thermometer is more accurate than judging doneness by appearance alone.
- Avoid constant flipping: Turn the steaks as needed to cook them evenly without burning the exterior.
- Rest before slicing: Allowing the meat to rest helps preserve its juiciness.
- Slice against the grain: This produces more tender bites.
What to Serve with Tomahawk Steaks
These impressive steaks pair beautifully with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, buttery corn on the cob, baked potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or a crisp green salad.
For a classic steakhouse dinner, serve them with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, with extra garlic butter on the side.
Final Thoughts
Perfectly grilled tomahawk steaks are a true showstopper. With bold seasoning, smoky char, a tender center, and a generous finish of garlic butter, this recipe turns a beautiful cut of beef into an unforgettable meal.
Take your time, monitor the temperature carefully, and let the steaks rest before slicing. The result is a rich, flavorful steak dinner worth sharing with family and friends!
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