This Grilled Tomahawk Steak is the ultimate showstopper, perfect for any special occasion or just a weekend indulgence. The reverse sear method ensures the steak is cooked evenly and achieves that perfectly juicy medium-rare finish. The final sear on the grill gives it a beautiful crust, while the compound butter adds an extra layer of richness with fresh garlic, shallots, and chives. Serve this steak alongside baked rice and a wedge salad for a complete meal. The flavorful juices from the steak mix with the butter, creating a delicious sauce for both the steak and any sides you pair it with. Don’t forget to serve the bone – it’s perfect for gnawing!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 large Tomahawk steak (2.5 to 3 pounds)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Montreal steak seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare Steak Rub: Mix brown sugar, Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small container. Set aside 2 teaspoons of the mixture for the compound butter.
- Dry Brine the Steak: Rub the steak on all sides with the remaining rub and place it uncovered in the refrigerator overnight.
- Prepare Compound Butter: In a small bowl, mash together butter, shallot, garlic, chives, and the reserved steak rub. Refrigerate until needed.
- Bring Steak to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking.
- Reverse Sear Method: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place steak on a baking sheet and bake until the internal temperature reaches 110°F (43°C), about 45 minutes.
- Grill the Steak: Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the steak for 2 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 125-135°F (51-57°C) for medium rare.
- Finish with Compound Butter: Remove steak from the grill and spread the compound butter on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 700 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Grilled Tomahawk Steak: A Culinary Showpiece
The Tomahawk steak, also known as a bone-in ribeye, gets its name from the long, French-trimmed bone that resembles a Native American tomahawk axe. This cut of beef is not just any ordinary steak – it’s a visually impressive and flavorful masterpiece, making it perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or any time you want to impress your guests. The bone serves a functional purpose as well, helping to insulate the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a more even cook and enhanced flavor.
The ribeye is well-known for its rich marbling, which provides a tender texture and juicy, flavorful bite. Combining this cut with the “reverse sear” cooking technique ensures that your steak will turn out perfectly every time, with a gorgeous caramelized crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior.
The Reverse Sear Method: A Game Changer
Traditional grilling methods can sometimes overcook the outer edges of the steak while leaving the inside underdone, especially with thick cuts like the Tomahawk. The reverse sear method flips the script on this. By slowly bringing the steak to temperature in the oven first, and then searing it at the end over high heat, you get a consistent, even cook throughout the steak, with a beautiful crust on the outside.
Here’s why the reverse sear method is particularly effective:
- Consistent Cooking: Starting the steak in the oven at a low temperature allows for gradual and even heating, which reduces the risk of overcooking the outer layer while the inside remains raw. By the time you sear it on the grill, the steak is already close to its final internal temperature, allowing for a quick and efficient crust formation.
- Enhanced Flavor: The reverse sear method gives the steak ample time to develop complex flavors during the initial oven bake. The final searing adds a rich, crispy crust that enhances the natural beefy flavors.
- Stress-Free Grilling: This method offers more control over the cooking process. You don’t have to worry about flare-ups or constantly flipping the steak to avoid charring. The majority of the cooking is done in the oven, making the grilling portion short and sweet—perfect for anyone who wants to avoid the stress of managing a grill for an extended time.
Compound Butter: A Flavorful Finishing Touch
While the Tomahawk steak is flavorful on its own, the addition of compound butter takes it to the next level. The butter, mixed with shallots, garlic, and fresh chives, melts into the steak after grilling, providing a luxurious and aromatic finish. The richness of the butter complements the robust flavor of the beef, while the herbs and garlic add freshness and complexity.
Here’s why compound butter is a must-have addition to this dish:
- Balances Richness: The butter’s creamy texture adds a richness that balances the savory, umami-packed steak.
- Aromatics Enhance Flavor: Shallots, garlic, and fresh chives bring a bright, zesty element to the dish, which contrasts beautifully with the fatty, tender beef.
- Customizable: You can easily customize the compound butter to your liking, adding ingredients like rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, or even truffle oil for an elevated twist.
Why the Tomahawk Steak is the Best Choice for Your BBQ
Choosing a Tomahawk steak for your grilling experience elevates the entire meal. This steak isn’t just about flavor, though it excels in that area; it’s also about presentation and experience. Here’s why it’s a standout option for any BBQ or dinner party:
- Visual Appeal: The Tomahawk steak is truly a feast for the eyes. Its long bone gives it a dramatic presentation, making it an immediate centerpiece for any table. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, the size and look of this steak will instantly wow your guests.
- Tender and Flavorful: The marbling in the ribeye cut ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the long bone helps retain moisture and enhances the flavor during cooking.
- Perfect for Sharing: Due to its size, a Tomahawk steak is ideal for sharing. A single steak can easily feed 2 to 4 people, depending on the sides you serve. It’s an excellent choice for a communal meal where everyone can enjoy a beautifully cooked piece of meat.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
While steak is often seen as an indulgence, it also provides several health benefits when consumed in moderation:
- High in Protein: Beef is a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. A single serving of Tomahawk steak provides a substantial amount of protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Packed with Essential Nutrients: Beef is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins like B12. Iron helps in maintaining healthy red blood cells, while zinc is vital for immune function, and B12 plays a crucial role in brain health and energy metabolism.
- Healthy Fats: Although beef is often associated with higher fat content, the fat in steak provides a significant amount of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to have potential health benefits, including supporting weight loss and improving heart health.
Perfect Pairings for Your Tomahawk Steak
To complete the meal, consider pairing your Tomahawk steak with side dishes that complement its rich, beefy flavor. Some great options include:
- Baked Rice: A simple yet flavorful side, baked rice soaks up the delicious juices from the steak, making every bite even more indulgent. You can prepare this dish in advance, allowing you to focus on grilling the perfect steak.
- Chopped Wedge Salad: A classic wedge salad with crisp iceberg lettuce, tangy blue cheese dressing, crispy bacon, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add a smoky, charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the steak.
- Potatoes: Whether roasted, mashed, or served as crispy fries, potatoes are a classic steakhouse side. Their neutral flavor allows the steak to shine while providing a hearty, satisfying component to the meal.
A Steak That’s More Than Just a Meal
What makes the Grilled Tomahawk Steak stand out isn’t just its flavor or impressive size; it’s the entire experience of cooking and sharing this dish. From the reverse sear method that ensures perfect doneness to the finishing touch of compound butter, this steak is a labor of love that’s worth every bite. It’s more than just a meal – it’s an event.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this recipe provides an easy-to-follow approach that guarantees restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own backyard. The combination of techniques, flavors, and textures make the Grilled Tomahawk Steak a memorable dish that will leave your guests talking about it long after the plates are cleared.
So next time you’re planning a special meal, don’t settle for just any steak – go for the Tomahawk, and elevate your grilling game to a whole new level.
Conclusion
The Grilled Tomahawk Steak is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a centerpiece that brings people together. Its striking appearance, tender texture, and rich flavor make it an ideal choice for any celebration or gathering. By utilizing the reverse sear method, you can achieve perfectly cooked meat with a mouthwatering crust, while the addition of compound butter elevates the dish to new heights of indulgence.Choosing a Tomahawk steak not only guarantees a memorable dining experience but also allows for creative pairings with sides that comple ment its robust flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this steak transforms a meal into an event worth savoring.