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Grilled tomahawk steak

Grilled Tomahawk Steak

12/10/2025|by Jason Klein

A tomahawk steak is never subtle on the grill. Whether for a holiday statement piece or an intimate dinner for two, this cut brings presence, patience, and payoff to outdoor cooking. Grilled Tomahawk Steak sets expectations high with its dramatic bone, generous thickness, and rich marbling that reward a steady hand and a watchful eye.

Built around the balance of heat, timing, and restraint, this recipe leans on classic technique rather than excess. A tomahawk doesn’t ask for much—it rewards proper preparation, steady fire, and respect for the meat. The result is a steak with a deep crust, a tender center, and a flavor that stands on its own without distraction. Each phase of the cook matters, from the early moments over indirect heat to the final sear that locks everything in.

TrueFlame grills provide the control this cut deserves. Consistent temperatures, responsive burners, and a generous cooking surface allow you to manage the pace without rushing. That steady environment allows the steak to develop character while remaining juicy throughout. As the bone warms and the fat renders, aromas build, signaling that something memorable is on the way.

This approach stems from working with Chef Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, whose style emphasizes honesty on the grill. His influence is evident in his simple seasoning choices, thoughtful fire management, and understanding of how premium beef behaves when handled properly. The focus remains on technique, not tricks, allowing quality ingredients to speak for themselves.

Serve this steak sliced for sharing or plated simply with seasonal sides. Either way, it fits moments meant to feel special without feeling complicated. From quiet evenings to full tables, this dish adapts naturally to the occasion.

For more food inspiration, follow our Brand Ambassador, Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, across social media and explore his award-winning rubs and cookbook at BigSwedeBBQ.com.

Grilled Tomahawk Steak Ingredients

  • 1 thick Tomahawk Steak
  • Big Swede BBQ Badass Texas Boost or your favorite SPG rub
  • Big Swede BBQ Badass Beef Boost or your favorite BBQ rub
  • 1 stick of Butter, unsalted

Grilled Tomahawk Steak Directions

  1. Preheat your TrueFlame grill by igniting all main burners. Then close the hood and allow the grill to heat for 10 to 15 minutes. The hood thermometer should reach approximately 450°F. Turn off all the knobs except two. Fill the Smoker Box with wood chips and place it on hot grates.
  2. Place the steak on a large cutting board and let it come to room temperature. Season first lightly with the Big Swede BBQ Badass Texas Boost or your favorite SPG rub on both sides. Then, season lightly on both sides with the Big Swede BBQ Badass Beef Boost or your favorite beef rub. Let it rest for 45 minutes while starting the grill. We have set up the grill for indirect grilling, so you have one hot zone and one colder zone.
  3. Place the tomahawk steak in the indirect zone of the grill. Grill the steak for 30 minutes on indirect heat or until it reaches an internal temperature of 115°F. Once ready, move the tomahawk steak directly over the heat.
  4. Flip every 30 seconds for 3-4 minutes, or until the outer layer develops a desired amount of crust on the outside. Remove the tomahawk steak when it has an internal temperature of 130°F.
  5. Place a couple of slices of butter on top of the steak. Leave to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Created by our Brand Ambassador, Chef Johan Magnusson of BigSwedeBBQ.com