Unleash Your Inner Grill Master: Mastering the Art of Cooking Tomahawk Steak on Traeger

Food lovers, prepare your taste buds for a mouth-watering journey as we dive into the world of cooking tomahawk steak on the beloved Traeger grill. Known for its rich, smoky flavor and tender, juicy meat, this cut of steak has become a favorite among home cooks and grill masters alike. But what sets the Traeger method apart? How can you achieve that perfect sear and pink center every time? In this article, we’ll explore expert tips and techniques on how to cook tomahawk steak on Traeger like a pro. Get ready to elevate your grilling game and impress your friends and family with the ultimate steak experience.

What is a Tomahawk Steak?

Tomahawk steak, also known as a cowboy steak or bone-in ribeye, is a large, thick cut of beef that includes a portion of the rib bone. This unique cut gets its name from its shape, which looks similar to a tomahawk axe. It typically weighs 2-3 pounds and is meant to feed multiple people. The tomahawk steak is known for its rich marbling and intense flavor, making it a highly sought-after cut among steak enthusiasts.

This type of steak comes from the same area as traditional ribeye steaks, but it is thicker and has the impressive rib bone attached. The length of the bone can vary depending on the size of the animal, but it usually measures around 12 inches. The long bone adds extra flavor and moisture to the meat, making it even more desirable.

Tomahawk steaks are often expensive because they are considered a premium cut of beef. They are typically sourced from high-quality cattle that have been raised on grass or pasture and finished on grains for added marbling. This results in tender, flavorful meat that is well worth the price.

Preparing Your Tomahawk Steak

Before cooking your tomahawk steak, make sure to take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the meat.

Next, season your tomahawk steak generously with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices such as garlic powder or rosemary to enhance the flavor. Massaging the seasoning into the meat will help it adhere better.

For best results, use a Traeger smoker grill to cook your tomahawk steak. Preheat your grill to 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit using hardwood pellets (we recommend hickory or mesquite for a rich, smoky flavor). Once the grill is hot, place the steak directly on the grates and close the lid. Let it smoke for about an hour, depending on the thickness of your steak.

Achieving the Perfect Internal Temperature

When cooking a tomahawk steak, it’s crucial to keep an eye on its internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature while the steak is on the grill. Here are some guidelines for achieving different levels of doneness:

– Medium Rare: 135°F (pink in the middle, warm and slightly red)
– Medium: 145°F (pink throughout)
– Medium Well: 150°F (mostly gray with a hint of pink)
– Well Done: 160°F (completely gray with no pink)

For medium-rare, take your steak off the grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F. Resting time will allow it to continue cooking and reach a perfect medium-rare temperature of 145°F.

Giving Your Tomahawk Steak a Perfect Crust

Once your tomahawk steak has reached your desired internal temperature, take it off the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your tomahawk steak, you can finish it off by searing it on high heat. Heat up a cast iron skillet or griddle to high heat and add some butter or oil. Place your rested steak onto the hot skillet and let it cook for about 2 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms.

Serving and Pairing Your Tomahawk Steak

Now that your tomahawk steak is perfectly cooked and rested, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. The traditional way to serve a tomahawk steak is to slice it into thick slices perpendicular to the bone. Each slice should include a piece of the juicy bone for added flavor and presentation.

Pairing your tomahawk steak with the right side dishes and beverages can elevate your dining experience even further. Popular side dishes that go well with tomahawk steak include baked potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For beverages, you can’t go wrong with a bold red wine or a dark beer like porter or stout.

Experimenting with Different Flavors

While salt and pepper are classic seasoning options for tomahawk steak, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences. You can try adding a rub made of herbs, spices, and brown sugar for a sweet and savory crust. Or marinate your steak in a combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.

Whatever flavor profile you choose, make sure to use high-quality ingredients and let the flavors enhance the natural taste of the beef rather than overpowering it.

Conclusion

Understanding Tomahawk Steak

Tomahawk steak, also known as a bone-in ribeye or cowboy steak, is a coveted cut of beef that is known for its impressive size and rich flavor. It is essentially a ribeye steak that is cut with the entire rib bone still attached, creating a unique and visually striking presentation. This cut is typically larger and thicker than traditional ribeye steaks, making it perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Selecting the Perfect Cut of Tomahawk Steak

When choosing a tomahawk steak at your local butcher or grocery store, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Look for steaks that have good marbling throughout – this means that there are small flecks of fat evenly distributed throughout the meat. This marbling is what gives tomahawk steaks their rich flavor and ensures they cook up tender and juicy.

Additionally, make sure the steak has a nice bright red color and minimal browning – this indicates freshness. The thickness of the cut is also important – aim for steaks that are at least two inches thick to ensure proper cooking on your Traeger grill.

Preparing Your Traeger Grill

Before cooking your tomahawk steak on your Traeger grill, it’s important to properly prepare the grill itself. Begin by filling the hopper with your preferred wood pellets – we recommend hickory or mesquite for a flavorful smoke profile to complement the beef.

Next, preheat your Traeger grill to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. While preheating, make sure to give the grates a good scrub to remove any leftover residue from previous cooks.

Tips for Seasoning Your Tomahawk Steak

Because tomahawk steaks are such high-quality cuts of meat, they don’t need much seasoning to shine. Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or get creative and use a blend of your favorite herbs and spices. Just be sure to season your steak generously on both sides before placing it on the grill.

When seasoning, you can also add a thin layer of fat to the steak – this not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy while cooking.

Cooking Your Tomahawk Steak on Your Traeger Grill

Once your grill is preheated, it’s time to cook your tomahawk steak. Place the steak on the grill directly over the hottest part of the grates – this will create a beautiful sear on the outside while leaving the inside perfectly cooked. Let the steak cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side for medium-rare or adjust accordingly for your preferred level of doneness.

To ensure even cooking, you can also rotate your steak throughout the cooking process or use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Resting and Serving Your Tomahawk Steak

After removing your tomahawk steak from the grill, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

When ready to serve, slice against the grain of the meat and enjoy! Tomahawk steaks are best enjoyed with simple sides like roasted vegetables or a baked potato to let their natural flavors shine.

Expert Tips for Perfectly Grilled Tomahawk Steak

For even more delicious results when cooking tomahawk steak on your Traeger grill, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

– Don’t pierce or flip your steak too often while cooking – this can cause juices to escape and result in drier meat.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking and avoid overcooking.
– Experiment with different seasonings or marinades for different flavor profiles.
– Sear the fat on the steak first for a crisp and delicious crust.

Q: What is a Tomahawk steak?
A: A Tomahawk steak is a large, thick cut of ribeye steak, typically 2 inches or more in thickness and with the rib bone still attached.

Q: How do I prepare the Traeger grill for cooking a Tomahawk steak?
A: To prepare the Traeger grill, first preheat it to 225-250°F. Next, add your choice of wood pellets to the hopper and turn on the grill to start the fire. Let the grill run for about 15 minutes until it reaches its desired temperature.

Q: Do I need to marinate a Tomahawk steak before cooking it on a Traeger?
A: While marinating is not necessary, it can enhance the flavor of the steak. If you choose to marinate your Tomahawk steak, do so for at least 2 hours before cooking.

Q: How do I season a Tomahawk steak for grilling?
A: To season a Tomahawk steak, rub it generously with olive oil and sprinkle with your preferred seasoning or dry rub. Make sure to cover all sides of the steak for an even flavor.

Q: How long does it take to cook a Tomahawk steak on a Traeger?
A: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and desired level of doneness. However, as a general rule, it should take around 18-25 minutes per pound at 225-250°F for medium-rare.

Q: How can I tell if my Tomahawk Steak is cooked to my liking?
A: The best way to check if your Tomahawk Steak is cooked to your liking is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140°F. Let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

In conclusion, cooking a tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill is a relatively simple and straightforward process that yields delicious results. By following the steps of seasoning, searing, and finishing on indirect heat, one can achieve a perfectly juicy and tender steak with a crispy and flavorful crust.

It is important to remember the key tips such as using high-quality meat, properly seasoning with salt and pepper, letting the steak rest before slicing, and monitoring the internal temperature to achieve the desired doneness.

Additionally, the Traeger grill offers a unique advantage with its ability to infuse smoky flavors into the steak while cooking. This adds an extra layer of depth to the overall taste of the dish.

Cooking a tomahawk steak on a Traeger grill is not only about creating a delicious meal, but also about enjoying the experience of outdoor cooking and sharing it with family and friends. It is about taking time to appreciate quality ingredients and savoring every bite of the final product.

Furthermore, this method of cooking allows for versatility in flavors by experimenting with different wood pellets or adding herbs and spices into the seasoning mix. It also showcases how grilling can be elevated from simple burgers and hotdogs to gourmet meals that are sure to impress.

In summary, mastering how to cook