Ultimate Guide to Grilling Tomahawk Steak with Herb Butter
- Total Time: 40–55 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
Description
This ultimate guide provides everything you need to know for grilling the perfect tomahawk steak. With tips on seasoning, grilling techniques, and resting times, you’ll achieve a beautifully charred and juicy steak that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 tomahawk steak (about 2–3 pounds)
- Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil (optional, for rubbing)
Instructions
- Preparation: Remove the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before grilling. This helps the steak cook more evenly.
- Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also rub a little olive oil on the steak for added flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (about 450°F to 500°F / 232°C to 260°C). If using a charcoal grill, create a two-zone fire for direct and indirect heat.
- Searing: Place the steak over direct heat and sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side, creating a nice crust.
- Indirect Cooking: After searing, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat) and close the lid. Cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
- Well Done: 160°F (71°C)
- Resting: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 10–15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Slicing and Serving: Slice the steak off the bone and cut against the grain into thick slices. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating the steak a few hours before grilling or using your favorite steak rub. Also, a meat thermometer is highly recommended to check for doneness accurately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 800 per serving
- Fat: 60g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 60g
There’s nothing quite like the sizzle and aroma of a perfectly grilled Tomahawk steak. With its dramatic bone-in presentation and rich marbling, this cut is a showstopper—perfect for impressing friends, marking a special occasion, or simply treating yourself. Grilling a Tomahawk steak might seem like an intimidating task, but with the right tools, preparation, and tips, you can achieve steakhouse quality in your own backyard.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the entire process, from preparing the herb butter to grilling the steak to perfection. We’ll also explore the health benefits of this dish and offer tips to elevate your grilling game. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Tomahawk Steak with Herb Butter
For the Steak:
- 1 Tomahawk steak (about 2 inches thick, 2.5-3 lbs)
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil for brushing
For the Herb Butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Herb Butter
First things first: make the herb butter. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step. Mix the softened butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until the herbs are evenly distributed.
Spread the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Twist the ends tightly to seal. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. You’ll love how this flavorful butter melts over the steak, creating a sauce that complements every bite.
Pro tip: Make extra herb butter and store it in the freezer. It’ll come in handy for future grilling adventures—or even for a luxurious breakfast spread.
2. Prepping the Tomahawk Steak
Remove the Tomahawk steak from the fridge an hour before grilling to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Generously season the steak with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. Don’t be shy—this is a thick cut of meat, and it needs bold seasoning to penetrate the interior. Lightly brush the steak with olive oil to help with browning and prevent sticking.
3. Searing the Steak
Preheat your grill to high heat—aim for about 450-500°F. Once the grill is blazing hot, place the steak directly over the flames. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes to develop a gorgeous crust. You’ll know it’s ready when it has those beautiful, golden-brown grill marks.
Searing locks in the juices and adds that signature smoky flavor. Don’t be tempted to poke or move the steak around too much—let the grill work its magic.
4. Cooking with Indirect Heat
After the steak has seared, move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking over indirect heat. Close the lid and let it cook slowly until it reaches your desired doneness. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer;
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium-rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
Remember, the steak will continue to cook a bit while resting, so it’s wise to pull it off the grill a few degrees before it reaches the target temperature.
5. Resting the Steak
Once the steak reaches the ideal temperature, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is crucial. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is tender and flavorful.
6. Serving with Herb Butter
Just before serving, slice the chilled herb butter into rounds and place them on top of the hot steak. Watch as it melts, creating a luscious, flavorful sauce. Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness, and serve immediately.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a bright finishing touch.
Health Benefits of Tomahawk Steak with Herb Butter
1. Rich in High-Quality Protein
Tomahawk steak provides a hefty dose of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps keep you full and satisfied, which is great if you’re indulging in a big meal but still want to avoid over-snacking later.
2. Packed with Essential Nutrients
This cut of beef is a nutritional powerhouse, offering high levels of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Iron supports healthy blood circulation, while zinc and vitamin B12 play critical roles in immune function and energy production.
3. Healthy Fats from Grass-Fed Beef and Butter
When enjoyed in moderation, the fats found in beef and butter can support heart health and brain function. Grass-fed beef, in particular, contains more omega-3 fatty acids than grain-fed beef. These healthy fats help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
4. Herbs as Antioxidant Powerhouses
The herbs in the butter aren’t just for flavor—they’re loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Thyme and rosemary have been shown to support digestion, while parsley adds vitamins A and C, contributing to healthy skin and immune function.
Expert Tips for Grilling the Perfect Tomahawk Steak
1. Choose the Right Steak
Not all steaks are created equal. Look for Tomahawk steaks with good marbling—those little veins of fat running through the meat guarantee a juicy, flavorful result. If possible, opt for grass-fed beef for a healthier and richer-tasting steak.
2. Season Generously
Don’t hold back with the seasoning. A thick cut like the Tomahawk needs bold flavors. Use coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper liberally to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.
3. Get the Grill Blazing Hot
The key to a great sear is high heat. Ensure your grill is preheated to 450-500°F before beginning. That initial sizzle when the steak hits the grill? That’s the sound of flavor being locked in.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
A reliable meat thermometer eliminates the guesswork in grilling. Relying on touch alone can be tricky, especially with thick cuts. A thermometer ensures that your steak is cooked to perfection every time.
5. Let It Rest (Seriously)
Skipping the rest period is one of the most common mistakes people make. Letting the steak rest allows the juices to settle, resulting in a moist and flavorful bite.
Why Grilling a Tomahawk Steak Is an Experience
Grilling is more than simply a way to cook—it’s an experience. There’s something deeply satisfying about standing by the grill, feeling the heat on your face, and hearing the sizzle of a steak. It’s about creating moments: the anticipation of the first bite, the pride in mastering the perfect sear, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.
As Emma Lafifi explains, “A perfectly grilled Tomahawk steak is more than food—it’s a celebration of life’s little victories.” Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a lively backyard gathering, grilling a Tomahawk steak turns any occasion into a special one.
Final Tips to Elevate Your Grilling Game
- Invest in Quality Tools: A good meat thermometer and sturdy grill tools are essential for success.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to the herb butter—try garlic confit, truffle oil, or spicy chili flakes.
- Keep It Fun: Grilling should be enjoyable, not stressful. Embrace the process and learn from each grilling session.
- Share the experience: by inviting friends and family to join you. Good food tastes even better when shared.
- Practice leads to perfection: Don’t be disheartened if your initial attempt isn’t perfect. Each time you grill, you’ll get closer to steak perfection.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Backyard Grilling
Grilling a Tomahawk steak with herb butter is about more than just making dinner—it’s about enjoying the process and savoring every moment. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to impress your guests, satisfy your cravings, and master the art of grilling.
So fire up the grill, slice into that beautiful steak, and let the herb butter melt into every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or indulging just because, one thing is certain: grilling a Tomahawk steak is an experience you won’t forget.
Emma Lafifi signing off—happy grilling!