Master the Art of Grilling: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Perfect Tomahawk Steak on a Traeger

AvatarByErick Benitez How To Cook (Dishes)

Calling all meat lovers! If you’re a fan of bold and flavorful cuts of beef, then you’ve likely heard of the tomahawk steak. This impressive and mouth-watering piece of meat is known for its long bone resembling a traditional Native American tomahawk. But, do you know the best way to cook this delicious cut? Look no further than your trusty Traeger grill. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to cook a tomahawk steak on a Traeger, so get ready to fire up your grill and impress your taste buds with this top-notch recipe.

What is a Tomahawk Steak?

A Tomahawk steak is a large, thickly cut ribeye steak that is attached to the bone. The bone in the steak is a significant part of its appeal, as it resembles the look of an axe-like weapon, hence the name “Tomahawk.” This cut of meat comes from the same part of the cow as a traditional ribeye, but with the added presence of an extended bone for enhanced flavor and presentation. The tomahawk steak has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its impressive appearance and delicious taste.

The size of a tomahawk steak can vary, but it is typically around two inches thick and weighs between 30-45 ounces. This thick cut of meat makes it perfect for grilling because it requires intense heat to cook evenly without overcooking. Tomahawk steaks are also known for their marbling, which is tiny white flecks of fat found throughout the meat. This marbling adds extra flavor and juiciness to the steak.

Choosing The Perfect Tomahawk Steak

When selecting a tomahawk steak for cooking on your Traeger grill, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, make sure you purchase your steak from a reputable butcher or grocery store with high-quality cuts of meat. Look for steaks that have consistent marbling and are evenly colored throughout.

Additionally, pay attention to the thickness of the cut. A good rule of thumb for tomahawk steaks is around two inches thick. Anything less may not give you that impressive look or enough room to properly season and cook your steak.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a tomahawk steak is the quality of the beef itself. Look for USDA Prime or Choice grade beef, as this indicates that it has been inspected and graded by the United States Department of Agriculture for quality and marbling.

Preparing Your Traeger Grill

Before cooking your tomahawk steak, it is essential to prepare your Traeger grill properly. Firstly, make sure you have enough pellets for the entire cook. It is crucial to use high-quality wood pellets as they add great flavor to your meat and are also more efficient in maintaining consistent heat than charcoal or gas grills.

Next, clean your grill grates thoroughly. A dirty grill can result in your meat sticking and not getting those beautiful grill marks you want on your tomahawk steak. Use a wire brush to scrape off any leftover residue from previous cooks.

Once the grill grates are clean, preheat your Traeger grill to 450-500°F. This high temperature will help create a nice sear on the outside of the steak while still cooking the inside perfectly.

Seasoning Your Tomahawk Steak

The key to any delicious steak is proper seasoning. With a thick cut like a tomahawk, you want to make sure you season it generously. A simple but effective way to season a tomahawk steak is with salt and pepper. The natural flavors of the beef coupled with smoky flavors from the Traeger will be enough to create an explosion of taste in your mouth.

For added flavor, you can also use a rub or marinade of your choice. Just make sure it complements the natural flavors of the beef rather than overpowering them.

After seasoning, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before putting it on the grill. This allows the meat to absorb the seasoning and cook more evenly.

Cooking The Perfect Tomahawk Steak on Your Traeger

Now that everything is prepared and ready, it’s time to cook your tomahawk steak on your Traeger grill! Place the seasoned steak directly on the preheated grill grates and close the lid.

For a medium-rare tomahawk steak, cook it for about 15-20 minutes, flipping it halfway through. For medium, cook it a little longer, around 25-30 minutes. The key is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be around 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.

Once your steak is cooked to perfection, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, creating a tender and juicy bite.

Serving and Enjoying Your Tomahawk Steak

After resting, it’s time to serve and enjoy your deliciously cooked tomahawk steak! The large size of this cut makes it perfect for sharing with a few people or indulging in on your own. Remember to cut against the grain when slicing your steak to ensure tenderness.

Some popular side dishes to pair with a tomahawk steak are roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. And don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of red wine or your favorite beverage to complement this indulgent meal.

Enjoy every bite

Understanding the Tomahawk Steak

The Tomahawk steak is a popular and impressive cut of beef that has gained a lot of attention in recent years. This steak gets its name from its resemblance to a tomahawk axe, with a long bone extending from one side of the meat. It is essentially a ribeye steak with the bone left intact, giving it a dramatic and unique appearance.

This particular cut of meat comes from the rib primal section of the cow, specifically from ribs six through twelve. These ribs are known for their rich marbling and depth of flavor, making them perfect for grilling. The size and thickness of a Tomahawk steak can vary depending on where you purchase it, but they typically range from 2-3 pounds and are about 2 inches thick.

One thing to keep in mind when cooking a Tomahawk steak is that because it is such a large cut of meat, it will require some time to cook properly. This means that it is important to have the right tools and techniques in order to achieve the perfect level of doneness for your taste preferences.

Preparing Your Traeger Grill

Before you can start cooking your Tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill, you need to make sure that your grill is properly prepared. First, make sure that your grill’s temperature gauge is functioning correctly so you can monitor the temperature throughout the cooking process.

Next, choose high-quality pellets specifically designed for grilling beef. Mesquite or hickory pellets work well with Tomahawk steaks as they add an authentic smoky flavor to the meat. Fill up your pellet hopper and preheat your Traeger grill to 450°F.

Once you preheat your grill, clean the grates with a wire brush and lightly oil them with cooking spray or olive oil. This will prevent your meat from sticking to the grates and allow for more even cooking.

Preparing the Tomahawk Steak

Before placing your steak on the grill, you want to let it come to room temperature for about an hour. This will help ensure that it cooks evenly throughout and allows for a more consistent level of doneness. While you’re waiting for the steak to reach room temperature, take this time to prepare any desired seasonings or marinades.

When it comes to seasoning a Tomahawk steak, less is more. Stick to simple seasonings such as kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and maybe some garlic powder. The rich marbling of this cut of meat provides enough flavor on its own, so you don’t want to overpower it with too many seasonings or sauces.

Cooking Your Tomahawk Steak on a Traeger Grill

Now comes the most important part: cooking your Tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill. With a properly preheated grill and seasoned steak at the ready, carefully place your steak on the grill. Depending on the thickness of your steak and desired level of doneness, cooking times can vary.

For medium-rare steaks, cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side. For medium steaks, cook for 7-8 minutes per side. And for well-done steaks, cook for about 9-10 minutes per side. During the last few minutes of cooking, baste your steak with melted butter or your favorite sauce to add even more flavor and moisture.

It is crucial to use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak during cooking. This will ensure that you don’t overcook or undercook your meat and end up with a perfect result every time. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F-135°F; for medium, aim for 140°F-145°F; and for well-done, aim for 150°F-155°F.

Resting and Serving Your Tomahawk Steak

Once your steak has reached your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.

After resting, it’s time to carve and serve your Tomahawk steak. To get the best results, carve the meat off the bone first and then slice it against the grain. This will ensure a tender and more enjoyable eating experience.

You can serve your Tomahawk steak as is or pair it with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes. Some may even choose to simply enjoy this impressive cut of meat on its own as a show-stopping main course.

When it comes to cooking a Tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill, preparation and technique are key to achieving a perfect result. With these tips in hand, you will be well on your way to impressing your family and friends with this delicious and visually stunning cut of beef. So fire up that Traeger grill, grab a glass

1) Can I cook a tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill?
Yes, you can certainly cook a tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill. In fact, the Traeger grill is perfect for cooking large cuts of meat like tomahawk steaks.

2) What temperature should I set my Traeger to when cooking a tomahawk steak?
For optimal results, it is recommended to set your Traeger grill to a temperature of 500-550°F when cooking a tomahawk steak. This high heat will help create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

3) How do I season a tomahawk steak before cooking it on a Traeger?
There are various ways to season a tomahawk steak, but one simple method is to use coarse salt, cracked black pepper, and some garlic powder. Rub the seasoning onto the steak about an hour before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

4) Do I need to let the tomahawk steak rest after grilling it on my Traeger?
Yes, it is important to let the cooked tomahawk steak rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices in the meat to redistribute and helps ensure that each bite is full of flavor.

5) Can I use wood chips or pellets other than what came with my Traeger for cooking a tomahawk steak?
Yes, you can use any type of wood chips or pellets that you prefer when cooking a tomahawk steak on your Traeger. Just make sure they are food-grade and suitable for grilling.

6) How long should I cook a tomahawk steak on my Traeger grill?
The cooking time will vary depending on how thick your tomahawk steak is and how done you want it to be. Generally, it takes about 20 minutes for medium-rare steak at 500°F, but it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the desired doneness is reached.

The Traeger grill has become increasingly popular among home cooks for producing delicious, smoky, and perfectly grilled meats. One of the most sought-after cuts to cook on this versatile grill is the tomahawk steak. While this cut of meat may seem intimidating at first, with the right techniques and preparation, anyone can cook a mouth-watering tomahawk steak on a Traeger.

First and foremost, choosing the right piece of meat is crucial. Look for a thick-cut ribeye with a long bone attached, resembling a tomahawk axe. This cut will have significant marbling throughout the meat, which adds to its flavor and tenderness when cooked.

Before placing the steak on the Traeger, it is essential to let it come to room temperature and season it generously with kosher salt and cracked black pepper. This allows for more even cooking and enhances the flavors of the beef. It is also crucial to preheat the grill properly before placing the steak on it.

Once the grill reaches a consistent temperature of 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit, place the seasoned tomahawk steak on the hot grates. The high heat will sear the outside of the meat quickly, creating a flavorful crust while locking in all its juices. It is recommended to cook each side for about

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Erick Benitez
Erick Benitez
In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.