There’s something truly special about a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak – its size, flavor, and the sheer spectacle of it. But such a magnificent cut of meat also comes with its own challenges in cooking. To ensure you achieve that delicious balance of a seared crust and a tender, juicy interior, follow these time-tested steps.

First, take your tomahawk steak out of the refrigerator to let it reach room temperature, which usually takes about an hour. This step is crucial for even cooking.

Next, preheat your grill to high. You want to get it very hot to create that perfect sear, something around 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius). While waiting for the grill to reach the right temperature, season your steak generously with salt and pepper or your choice of steak seasoning.

Once your grill is heated up and ready to go, place the tomahawk steak on the hottest part of the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side or until you’ve achieved good char marks. This initial sear locks in those tasty juices.

After searing, you need to cook it through to your preferred level of doneness without burning the exterior. Move the steak to a cooler part of the grill or lower your burners to medium heat if you’re using a gas grill. Close the lid and let it cook; depending on thickness and desired doneness, this could take anywhere from 10 minutes for rare to 20 minutes for medium.

The goal is an internal temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius) for rare or 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius) for medium-rare. A meat thermometer is crucial here because you’re dealing with a thick piece of meat.

Once your tomahawk steak has reached its perfect temperature, take it off the heat and let it rest on a cutting board. Resting allows the juices to redistribute so they don’t run out when you slice into it. Give it at least 10 minutes before you begin carving.

Finally, slice against the grain, ensuring tenderness in every bite. Serve immediately and enjoy one of the finest steaks known!

Remember that practice makes perfect when cooking a special cut like this. However, by following these steps closely, you’re sure to impress at your next barbecue or dinner party with a beautifully grilled tomahawk steak.