Craving a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further! In this blog article, we’ll walk you through the simple yet impressive process of cooking a tomahawk steak on a gas grill. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or a beginner looking to elevate your culinary skills, this guide is here to help. From choosing the right cut and seasoning to achieving that beautiful sear and mouthwatering medium-rare doneness, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your apron and get ready to learn how to cook a tomahawk steak on a gas grill like a true master of the grill.
How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak on a Gas Grill
When it comes to grilling, few cuts of beef can match the impressive presentation and mouthwatering flavor of a tomahawk steak. Named after its resemblance to a tomahawk axe, this thick, bone-in ribeye is a true showstopper. While cooking a tomahawk steak may seem intimidating at first, with the right techniques and equipment, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own backyard. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking a tomahawk steak on a gas grill, ensuring a perfectly cooked steak every time.
Choosing the Right Tomahawk Steak
Before you start grilling, it’s crucial to select a high-quality tomahawk steak. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect cut:
1. Look for a well-marbled steak: Marbling refers to the flecks of fat dispersed throughout the muscle fibers. A well-marbled tomahawk steak will have small streaks of fat evenly distributed, which enhances flavor and tenderness.
2. Opt for USDA Prime or Choice grade: These grades indicate the quality and tenderness of the meat. While USDA Prime is the highest grade, USDA Choice is still an excellent option, especially if you’re on a budget.
3. Check the thickness: A tomahawk steak should be at least two inches thick. This thickness allows for a perfect sear on the outside while maintaining a juicy and tender interior.
4. Look for a long bone: The long bone attached to the ribeye adds visual appeal and enhances flavor during the cooking process.
Preparing the Tomahawk Steak
Once you’ve selected your tomahawk steak, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Follow these steps:
1. Remove the steak from the refrigerator: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. This process ensures even cooking and helps the steak retain its juices.
2. Season generously: Liberally season the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. You can also add other dry rubs or spices of your choice to enhance the flavors.
3. Let it rest: After seasoning, let the steak sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This also helps the steak cook more evenly.
Preheating the Gas Grill
To achieve the perfect sear and cook the steak evenly, preheating the gas grill is essential. Follow these steps:
1. Clean the grill grates: Ensure that the grill grates are clean by brushing off any debris or residue from previous grilling sessions. This prevents sticking and promotes even heat distribution.
2. Preheat the grill: Turn on the gas grill and set it to high heat. Close the lid and let it preheat for about 10-15 minutes. This process ensures the grates are hot and ready for searing.
Searing the Tomahawk Steak
Searing the tomahawk steak at high heat creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices. Follow these steps to get the perfect sear:
1. Oil the grill grates: Before placing the steak on the grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Use tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in oil to carefully rub the grates.
2. Place the steak on the grill: Carefully place the seasoned tomahawk steak directly on the preheated grill grates. Position it diagonally across the grates for those coveted grill marks.
3. Sear the first side: Close the grill lid and let the steak sear for about 3-4 minutes. Avoid constantly flipping or moving the steak to ensure a proper sear.
4. Flip and sear the second side: Using tongs, flip the steak to the other side and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes with the grill lid closed. This ensures even cooking on both sides.
5. Check the internal temperature: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to check its internal temperature. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Indirect Cooking for perfect doneness
Now that your steak is seared to perfection, it’s time to finish cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Follow these steps:
1. Set up for indirect cooking: Turn off one burner on your gas grill or move the charcoal to one side, creating a two-zone fire. This setup allows for indirect cooking.
2. Transfer the steak: Move the seared tomahawk steak to the side of the grill without direct heat. Position it bone-side down to prevent burning.
3. Close the lid and cook: Close the grill lid and let the steak cook indirectly for about 15-20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember, the thicker the steak, the longer it will take to cook.
4. Monitor the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak periodically. Remove the steak from the grill when it reaches your preferred temperature.
Resting and Serving the Tomahawk Steak
Resting the steak after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Follow these steps:
1. Tent the steak: Carefully remove the steak from the grill and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Carve and serve: After resting, transfer the tomahawk steak to a cutting board and carve it into thick, juicy slices. Serve immediately and enjoy the sumptuous flavors.
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to grilling, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. With time and experience, you’ll become a master at cooking tomahawk steaks on your gas grill. So fire up that grill, invite your friends and family, and indulge in the ultimate steak experience with a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak!
Tomahawk Ribeye On A Gas Grill | How To Cook Steak
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you cook a tomahawk steak on a gas grill?
Cooking time for a tomahawk steak on a gas grill can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 2-inch thick tomahawk steak for about 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, flipping it once halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
Should I marinate a tomahawk steak before grilling?
Marinating a tomahawk steak before grilling is not necessary, as this type of steak is already tender and flavorful. However, you can still marinate it if desired to add some extra flavor. Keep the marinade simple and allow the steak to marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before grilling.
How do I prepare a tomahawk steak before grilling?
Before grilling a tomahawk steak, it’s best to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows for more even cooking. Then, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs, pressing the seasoning into the meat. Preheat your gas grill to high heat.
Should I sear the tomahawk steak before grilling?
Searing the tomahawk steak before grilling is a popular technique to enhance flavor and create a nice crust. You can choose to sear the steak first over high heat for a couple of minutes on each side, and then move it to a slightly lower heat to continue grilling until desired doneness is reached. However, it is not necessary to sear the steak if you prefer to grill it directly without searing.
What temperature should the gas grill be set to?
Preheat your gas grill to high heat, around 450-500°F (230-260°C). This high heat helps to sear the steak and lock in the juices. Once the steak is placed on the grill, you can adjust the heat slightly lower, around medium-high, to continue cooking it until the desired level of doneness is achieved.
How do I know when the tomahawk steak is done?
The best way to determine the doneness of a tomahawk steak is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should read 130-135°F (54-57°C). However, if you prefer a different level of doneness, refer to the following internal temperatures: 120-125°F (49-52°C) for rare, 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) or higher for well-done.
Final Thoughts
To cook a tomahawk steak on a gas grill, start by preparing the steak with a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and olive oil. Preheat the grill to high heat and sear the steak on both sides for a few minutes to achieve a caramelized crust. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue grilling the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. With these easy steps, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak on your gas grill.
