Grilled Tomahawk Steak with Herb Butter Recipe
Introduction
The Tomahawk steak is the king of all steaks—massive in size, bone-in, and full of rich, beefy flavor. When grilled on the Arteflame, this cut of meat becomes a showstopper. The combination of a high-heat sear in the center grate and gentle cooking on the flat top gives you a perfect steakhouse-quality crust with a juicy, tender inside. Finish it with a decadent herb butter for a restaurant-worthy dish.
Ingredients
- 1 (2-3 lb) Tomahawk steak (about 2 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Herb Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Grill
Start by preparing your Arteflame grill. Soak three paper towels with vegetable oil and place them in the center of the grill. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the grill. Let it burn for about 20 minutes until the center is extremely hot and the outer flat top is evenly heated.
Step 2: Season the Tomahawk Steak
- Rub the Tomahawk steak all over with olive oil.
- Generously season with salt and pepper on all sides, pressing the seasoning into the meat to ensure it adheres well.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
- Place the steak directly over the center grill grate (where the heat is most intense) to sear. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. This high-heat sear will lock in the juices and give you that iconic crust.
- Once both sides are beautifully seared, move the steak to the outer flat top, where the heat is more moderate. This will allow the steak to cook through slowly without burning the exterior.
Step 4: Cook to Desired Doneness
- Continue grilling the Tomahawk on the flat top for an additional 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare, or adjust based on your preference:
- 120°F for rare
- 130°F for medium
- 140°F for medium-well
- Remove the steak from the grill when it’s 15°F below your target doneness, as it will continue to cook while resting.
Step 5: Make the Herb Butter
While the steak cooks, prepare the herb butter:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir until well combined, then set aside at room temperature.
Step 6: Rest the Steak
- Once the steak reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the steak extra tender.
Step 7: Finish with Herb Butter and Serve
- Slice the steak against the grain and top it with generous dollops of herb butter while it's still warm so the butter melts into the meat.
- Serve with additional herb butter on the side for extra richness.
Pro Tips:
- Reverse Sear for Even Cooking: If you prefer a slower cook, start the steak on the outer flat top for about 15-20 minutes, then finish it with a high-heat sear in the center for a more even cook.
- Thermometer Check: Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking such a premium cut. Remember to remove it slightly early, as the steak will continue cooking off the grill.
Variations
- Garlic Butter Steak – Add roasted garlic cloves to the herb butter for a mellow garlic flavor.
- Chimichurri Tomahawk – Serve the steak with fresh chimichurri sauce instead of herb butter for a zesty, herbal finish.
- Spicy Herb Butter – Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a touch of heat.
- Blue Cheese Butter – Mix crumbled blue cheese into the herb butter for a bold, tangy contrast to the rich meat.
- Smoky Paprika Rub – Add smoked paprika and cumin to the steak seasoning for a subtle smoky flavor.
Best Pairings
- Grilled asparagus or grilled potatoes with garlic and herbs complement the richness of the steak.
- Serve with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich dark beer like a porter.
Conclusion
Grilling a Tomahawk steak on the Arteflame takes your grilling game to the next level. The combination of a juicy steak with a crisp sear and rich herb butter creates a luxurious meal that’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to impress. Enjoy the different variations to suit your taste and savor this unforgettable dish.