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Perfect Reverse Sear Tomahawk Steak Recipe with Crispy Char Easy Guide

perfect reverse sear tomahawk steak - featured image

This recipe guides you through the perfect reverse sear method for a tomahawk steak, delivering a crispy crust and juicy, tender interior. Ideal for special occasions or impressive weekend grilling.

Ingredients

  • Tomahawk steak (about 2 to 2.5 lbs / 900g to 1.1kg, bone-in and well-marbled)
  • Coarse kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • High smoke point oil (such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil)
  • Garlic cloves (optional, 2-3 smashed)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
  • Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring the steak to room temperature by taking it out of the fridge about 45 minutes before cooking.
  2. Preheat your oven or set up grill for indirect heat at 225°F (107°C).
  3. Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then coat all sides generously with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet and insert a meat thermometer probe into the thickest part.
  5. Cook the steak low and slow in the oven or on the grill until the internal temperature reaches about 115°F (46°C) for rare or 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, usually 30-45 minutes depending on thickness.
  6. While the steak cooks, heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of high smoke point oil, letting it shimmer but not smoke.
  7. Transfer the steak immediately to the skillet and sear for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side, including edges, using tongs to hold the steak upright on its bone to sear all around.
  8. Add optional garlic cloves, rosemary or thyme sprigs, and butter to the pan; tilt the pan and spoon melted butter over the steak while searing for extra flavor and gloss.
  9. Remove the steak from the pan and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute; internal temperature will rise about 5°F (3°C).
  10. Slice the steak against the grain and serve.

Notes

If the crust browns too fast during searing, lower the heat to avoid burning. Do not skip the resting step to keep the steak juicy. Use a reliable instant-read thermometer for best results. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to maintain a crisp crust. For dairy-free, skip butter or use a vegan alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomahawk steak, reverse sear, steak recipe, crispy crust, juicy steak, grilling, cast iron skillet, beef steak