What is the Best Way to Cook a Tomahawk Steak?

Tomahawk steaks are visually impressive, luxurious, and one of the most flavorful cuts of beef. Cooking them can seem intimidating due to their size and bone, but with the right techniques, you can make them the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal. So, what is the best way to cook a tomahawk steak? This article will guide you through the most effective methods, including reverse-searing, grilling, and pan-searing, as well as tips on preparation, cooking, and resting.

By the end of this guide, you will have all the knowledge you need to cook a tomahawk steak to perfection, regardless of the method you choose. Let’s get into the details.

What is a Tomahawk Steak?

The tomahawk steak is a ribeye steak that is known for its long, Frenched bone, which can be up to 8 inches long. This bone gives the steak its signature tomahawk shape and serves as an impressive visual feature when served. The steak itself is cut from the rib primal section of the cow, the same section where ribeye and prime rib are sourced. Due to its size, it is typically thicker than a regular ribeye, making it perfect for slow cooking or reverse-searing.

The tomahawk is not only about appearance. The meat is rich, juicy, and incredibly flavorful, thanks to its marbling, which keeps the steak tender and moist during cooking. The long bone also helps insulate the meat, allowing for an even cook and better flavor retention.

To learn more about the anatomy of this cut and other steak options, visit this guide on steak cuts.

Why Proper Preparation is Crucial

Before diving into the cooking techniques, it’s essential to understand that preparation is key to achieving the perfect tomahawk steak. Rushing through the preparation phase can lead to uneven cooking and a less flavorful result. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to properly prepare your tomahawk steak for cooking.

1. Bringing the Steak to Room Temperature

To ensure even cooking, always bring the steak to room temperature before cooking. Leaving a cold steak on the grill or in a pan will result in uneven cooking, with the outer layers cooking much faster than the center. Ideally, leave the steak out for at least 30 minutes before starting.

2. Seasoning the Steak

Seasoning a tomahawk steak should be simple yet effective. Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are the staples, but you can also add garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Make sure to season the steak generously on all sides, including the edges.

3. Trimming Excess Fat

While some fat is essential for flavor, trimming any excess fat will help prevent flare-ups when grilling. A thin layer of fat around the edge of the steak is ideal, but you don’t want too much, as it can cause uneven cooking.

Key Tools You Need to Cook a Tomahawk Steak

Having the right tools can make all the difference in cooking a tomahawk steak. Here are some essential items you should have on hand:

Cast-Iron Skillet or Grill: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for searing, while a grill adds that smoky flavor. Both options work well, depending on the cooking method you choose.
Instant-Read Thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the steak reaches the desired level of doneness. Without a thermometer, you risk undercooking or overcooking the steak.
Butter, Garlic, and Herbs: These ingredients are essential for basting the steak as it cooks, adding extra flavor and richness.

Best Methods for Cooking Tomahawk Steak

There are various ways to cook a tomahawk steak, but some methods are better suited for achieving that perfect balance of tender meat and a flavorful crust. Below are the top methods you should consider.

Reverse-Searing: The Best Way to Cook Tomahawk Steak

Reverse-searing is widely regarded as the best way to cook a tomahawk steak. This method involves slowly cooking the steak at a low temperature before finishing it with a quick, high-heat sear. The result is a steak that is evenly cooked throughout, with a beautiful, caramelized crust on the outside.

Steps for Reverse-Searing:

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
Cook the steak in the oven until the internal temperature reaches around 110°F (43°C) for medium-rare.
Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest while you heat a cast-iron skillet or grill to high heat.
Sear the steak on each side for 1-2 minutes until a crispy, golden-brown crust forms.
Let the steak rest again for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

The beauty of reverse-searing lies in its ability to preserve the steak’s juices while still achieving that perfect crust. By cooking the steak slowly and finishing it with a quick sear, you ensure that the interior stays tender and juicy.

Grilling a Tomahawk Steak

Grilling is another excellent method for cooking tomahawk steaks, especially if you’re looking to add a smoky flavor. The key to grilling is to use both direct and indirect heat to cook the steak evenly without drying it out.

Steps for Grilling:

Preheat your grill to high heat (around 500°F/260°C).
Sear the steak over direct heat for 3-5 minutes per side to create a nice crust.
Move the steak to indirect heat and continue cooking until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature, aiming for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
Rest the steak for at least 10 minutes before carving.

Grilling a tomahawk steak gives it a charred exterior and adds that smoky flavor that many steak enthusiasts love. It’s the ideal method for outdoor cooking, especially for large gatherings or special events.

Pan-Searing and Oven Finishing

If you don’t have a grill, pan-searing is a great alternative. By combining high-heat searing on the stove with gentle finishing in the oven, you can achieve a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak.

Steps for Pan-Searing:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or avocado oil.
Sear the steak on each side for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook until the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
Baste with butter, garlic, and herbs during the last few minutes of cooking.

Pan-searing followed by oven finishing ensures the steak has a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Sous Vide Method for Precision Cooking

Sous vide is the ultimate precision cooking method for tomahawk steaks. By vacuum-sealing the steak and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath, you can ensure that the steak is cooked evenly from edge to edge.

Steps for Sous Vide:

Set your sous vide machine to 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Place the steak in a vacuum-sealed bag with herbs and butter.
Cook the steak in the water bath for 2-4 hours.
Remove the steak from the bag and sear it in a hot pan for a crispy crust.

The sous vide method takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures the steak is perfectly tender every time.

How to Ensure Perfect Doneness

Achieving the perfect level of doneness is critical when cooking a tomahawk steak. Here’s a quick guide to internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:

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 (65-68°C)
Well-Done: 160°F and above (71°C+)

Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. This ensures that your steak reaches the exact doneness you desire without overcooking it.

For more details on achieving the perfect doneness, check out this guide on steak doneness.

The Importance of Resting the Steak

Resting the steak after cooking is crucial to maintaining its flavor and juiciness. When a steak cooks, its juices are drawn toward the surface. If you cut into the steak immediately after cooking, those juices will run out, leaving the meat dry. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more tender and flavorful.

How Long to Rest a Tomahawk Steak:

For a tomahawk steak, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices have time to redistribute and the steak remains moist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a tomahawk steak can be a little tricky, and there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. By avoiding these errors, you’ll ensure your steak comes out perfect every time.

1. Overcooking

Tomahawk steaks are thick, which means they require longer cooking times. However, it’s easy to accidentally overcook them if you’re not paying attention. Always use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.

2. Skipping the Resting Period

Many people are tempted to cut into their steak as soon as it comes off the heat. However, skipping the resting period will result in a loss of juices and a less tender steak.

3. Using the Wrong Oil for Searing

When searing a tomahawk steak, always use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or avocado oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily, leaving a bitter taste on the steak.

How to Carve and Serve a Tomahawk Steak

Once your steak is perfectly cooked, carving it correctly is crucial for both presentation and texture. Use a sharp knife to slice the meat against the grain, which helps break down the muscle fibers and makes each bite more tender.

Steps for Carving:

Begin by slicing along the bone to remove the meat.
Once the bone is removed, slice the steak into thin strips against the grain.
Arrange the slices on a serving platter for a beautiful presentation.

Carving against the grain ensures that each bite of steak is tender and easy to chew.

Best Sides and Pairings for Tomahawk Steak

A tomahawk steak is a meal in itself, but the right sides and pairings can elevate your dining experience. Here are some classic sides that pair perfectly with this luxurious cut of meat:

1. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots are excellent choices to serve alongside a tomahawk steak. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the savory flavors of the steak.

2. Mashed Potatoes

A creamy, buttery side of mashed potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser. The rich texture of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the steak’s crispy crust and tender interior.

3. Wine Pairing

A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of a tomahawk steak.

For more pairing suggestions, check out this guide on steak pairings.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking tomahawk steaks, sourced from “People Also Ask” sections in search engines:

1. What is the best doneness for a tomahawk steak?

Most chefs recommend cooking a tomahawk steak to medium-rare, which highlights its flavor and texture. However, doneness is subjective, and you should cook it to your preferred level.

2. How long should I cook a tomahawk steak?

The cooking time depends on the method you use. Reverse-searing generally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, while grilling may take 20-30 minutes.

3. Why is tomahawk steak so expensive?

Tomahawk steak is pricier because of its size, presentation, and the labor involved in Frenching the bone. Additionally, the bone adds weight, which increases the overall cost.

4. Can I cook tomahawk steak in an air fryer?

While it’s possible to cook a tomahawk steak in an air fryer, it’s not recommended due to the steak’s large size and the difficulty of achieving an even cook in most air fryer models.

5. What’s the difference between a tomahawk steak and a ribeye?

The main difference between a tomahawk steak and a ribeye is the bone. A tomahawk steak includes the long rib bone, while a ribeye is boneless or has a shorter bone.

Conclusion

Cooking a tomahawk steak can be a rewarding experience when done correctly. Whether you choose to reverse-sear, grill, or pan-sear, each method has its benefits and can produce a delicious result. By following the tips in this guide—prepping the steak properly, cooking it to the perfect doneness, and allowing it to rest—you’ll be able to serve an unforgettable steak that’s sure to impress.

For more expert cooking tips, be sure to check out this comprehensive guide on tomahawk steak preparation.

What is the best way to cook a tomahawk steak?