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Perfect Charred Tomahawk Steak Recipe Easy Reverse Sear Method for Juicy Results

perfect charred tomahawk steak - featured image

This recipe uses the reverse sear technique to cook a tomahawk steak slowly in the oven before searing it in a hot cast iron skillet, resulting in a juicy, tender steak with a perfect smoky crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tomahawk steak (about 22.5 lbs / 9001150 g), bone-in ribeye with a long rib bone
  • Kosher salt, generously for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, coarse grind
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil with high smoke point (such as grapeseed or avocado oil) for searing
  • Optional aromatics: garlic cloves, fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs

Instructions

  1. Remove the tomahawk steak from the fridge about 45 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  3. Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C).
  4. Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and lay the steak on the rack.
  5. Cook the steak in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 110-115°F (43-46°C) for medium-rare, about 45-60 minutes. Start checking at 40 minutes.
  6. While the steak cooks, heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot (5-7 minutes). Add 1 tablespoon of high smoke point oil.
  7. Remove steak from oven and immediately sear in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, including edges, until a deep brown crust forms. Add smashed garlic cloves and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan for aroma.
  8. Transfer steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Slice against the grain into thick slices and serve.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Dry the steak thoroughly before seasoning for a better crust. Sear one steak at a time to maintain pan temperature. Rest steak 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices. For variations, try herb butter finish or spice rub. Can finish on grill instead of pan sear.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomahawk steak, reverse sear, steak recipe, cast iron skillet, juicy steak, easy steak recipe, bone-in ribeye