Perfect Tomahawk Steak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomahawk steaks are an impressive and luxurious cut, perfect for special occasions or a memorable dinner. The combination of a crispy, flavorful crust with a tender and juicy interior is what makes this cut so irresistible. The seasoning is simple—just sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil—allowing the natural flavors of the steak to shine through. The finishing touch of herb butter adds richness and an aromatic boost that elevates the steak to a new level. Whether you’re cooking for a special event or a casual evening, this recipe will never disappoint.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds tomahawk steak
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Herb butter (recipe below)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Steak: Remove the Tomahawk steak from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub the steak on both sides with olive oil, then season generously with sea salt and black pepper.
3. Preheat the Grill or Pan: Preheat a grill or heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. If using a grill, you can create two zones of heat (high and medium) for better control over the cooking process.
4. Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the grill or in the hot pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a golden, crispy crust forms. If using a grill, you can also sear the steak over high heat, then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking.
5. Finish Cooking: Once seared, reduce the heat to medium (or transfer the steak to a cooler part of the grill) and continue to cook the steak for an additional 10-15 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
   • 120-125°F for rare
   • 130-135°F for medium-rare
   • 140-145°F for medium
   • 150-155°F for medium-well
6. Rest the Steak: Once cooked to your preferred doneness, remove the steak from the heat and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices for a more tender steak.
7. Top with Herb Butter: While the steak rests, place a dollop of herb butter on top of the steak to melt over the warm meat.
8. Serve: Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, flavorful, and juicy steak with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 2-3 people, depending on the portion sizes. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and the cooking time is around 20-25 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes of resting time.

Herb Butter Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Herb Butter Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with chopped parsley, garlic, lemon zest, and thyme.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Roll the herb butter into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Variations

• Spicy Herb Butter: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter.
• Blue Cheese Butter: Add crumbled blue cheese to the herb butter mixture for a tangy, creamy variation.
• Smoke Flavor: If you’re using a grill, you can add wood chips to infuse a smoky flavor into the steak while cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the steak in foil and heat it in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a pan over low heat to preserve the steak’s moisture.

FAQs

1. How do I know when my Tomahawk steak is done?

The best way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The steak will continue to cook as it rests, so aim for the lower end of your preferred temperature range.

2. Can I cook this steak in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes! You can sear the steak in a hot skillet, then transfer it to a preheated oven (about 400°F) to finish cooking. It should take 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness and desired doneness.

3. Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the herb butter ahead of time. Simply prepare it, roll it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

4. Should I use a bone-in or boneless Tomahawk steak?

A Tomahawk steak is typically bone-in, which gives it that distinctive “handle” and enhances flavor. Bone-in steaks also tend to cook more evenly, but boneless can be used if preferred.

5. How do I get the perfect sear on a Tomahawk steak?

Ensure your pan or grill is preheated and very hot before adding the steak. This will create a flavorful crust. Don’t move the steak around too much while searing to let it develop that perfect crust.

6. Can I grill the Tomahawk steak without searing it in a pan first?

Yes, you can grill the Tomahawk steak entirely on the grill. Just make sure to sear it over high heat first and then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking to your desired doneness.

7. Can I add different herbs to the herb butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your herb butter by adding herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano, depending on your taste.

8. How thick should the Tomahawk steak be?

A typical Tomahawk steak is about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness helps the steak cook evenly and stay juicy.

9. Can I use a meat thermometer to check the doneness while cooking?

Yes, using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the doneness of your steak. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat for an accurate reading.

10. How should I serve the Tomahawk steak?

Tomahawk steaks are best served sliced against the grain. You can serve them with sides like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

The Perfect Tomahawk Steak is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality steak right at home. The combination of searing the steak and topping it with herb butter will have you savoring every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this Tomahawk Steak will become your go-to recipe for an unforgettable meal.

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