How To Grill A Tomahawk Steak On A Gas Grill In 5 Steps

If you’re looking to level up your backyard barbeque game, let me tell you—grilling a tomahawk steak is where it’s at. I still remember the first time I threw one of those bad boys on the grill. 

The thick, marbled beef and the long rib bone turned my cookout into a steakhouse experience. It’s bold, it’s juicy, and it absolutely steals the show.

But let’s be honest—grilling a tomahawk isn’t like tossing on a few burgers or hot dogs. How do you turn this great cut into a perfectly seared, delicious dish? Can you really nail it using just a gas grill?

In this guide, we’re breaking it all down—step by step. You’ll learn the exact method our team uses to grill a tomahawk steak to perfection on a gas grill. Stick around, and you’ll serve up a steak that looks as incredible as it tastes.

What is a Tomahawk Steak?

A tomahawk steak is a ribeye cut with the entire rib bone left intact, giving it the look of a tomahawk axe—hence the name. This thick, bone-in cut weighs about 30–45 ounces. You will find it has rich marbling, bold flavor, and a dramatic look.

This cut has gained legendary status in the grilling world, not just for its flavor but for its visual impact. Chefs love it for its tenderness and striking look. It catches eyes at both high-end restaurants and backyard BBQs.

How It Compares to Other Steaks:

Cut	Bone-In	Thickness	Flavor Level	Wow Factor
Tomahawk Ribeye	Yes	Very thick	Bold, juicy	★★★★★
Filet Mignon	No	Medium	Mild, tender	★★☆☆☆
T-Bone	Yes	Thick	Balanced	★★★★☆

If you want flavor and flair in one bite, tomahawk steak delivers both.

Also read: What Is The Most Expensive Beef Cut?

5 Steps to Grill a Tomahawk Steak on a Gas Grill 

1. Prepare the Tomahawk Steak

Pat dry the steak with a paper towel and sprinkle the steak evenly with kosher salt and pepper if you like. [1]

“Grilling a tomahawk steak on a gas grill can be a challenging yet rewarding experience.”

– Chef Thomas Keller, Award-winning Chef 

2. Preheat Your Gas Grill to High

You need to turn the gas dial to high and waiting for the grill to reach a high temperature. Doing so will ensure the steak is cooked evenly and quickly.

Read: How To Cook Asparagus On The Grill In Foil?

3. Sear Both Sides of the Steak

Searing the steak involves cooking it over direct, high heat. It will seal in the juices and flavors while forming a caramelized crust around the meat.

Cook each side of the steak for 3–4 minutes until it forms a golden-brown crust.

4. Reduce to Medium Heat

Once the tomahawk steak has been seared over high heat, the heat should be turned down to medium. You want to  make sure it is cooked all the way through.

It will avoid overcooking the steak and ensure it is cooked evenly throughout. 

5. Continue Grilling Until Desired Doneness

Continue grilling the tomahawk steak until it reaches the desired internal temperature. Monitor the steak regularly to ensure it doesn’t overcook. 

You need to remove the steak from the grill when it is cooked to your preference.

Cooking Time for Tomahawk Steak

Doneness	Gas Grill (mins)	Internal Temperature
Rare (2 inches)	2 minutes per side	500°F
Medium Rare (2 inches)	3 minutes per side	500°F
Medium (2 inches)	4 minutes per side	500°F
Medium Well (2 inches)	5 minutes per side	500°F
Well Done (2 inches)	6 minutes per side	500°F

Check out: How Much Is A Tomahawk Steak In A Restaurant?

Tips & Tricks When Grilling Tomahawk Steak on a Gas Grill

• Preheat the gas grill to high heat 
• Place the tomahawk steak onto the hot grill and cook for 5 minutes per side 
• Reduce the heat to medium-high and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes per side 
• Check for doneness using a meat thermometer and remove from the grill once the desired internal temperature is reached
• Rest the steak for 5-10 minutes before serving 
• Brush the steak with oil before grilling to help give a nice char 
• Before cooking the steak, season it with salt and pepper for more taste.
• Use a basting brush to apply melted butter or a marinade to the steak during cooking 
• Turn the steak on its side to sear the fat cap to give the extra steak flavor 
• Move the steak to indirect heat if flare-ups occur, or the steak is cooking too quickly

Related: Can You Put A Baking Pan On The Grill?

Serving Suggestions

A tomahawk steak is bold and flavorful, so it pairs best with sides that complement, not compete. Think hearty, simple dishes that soak up juices and balance the richness of the meat.

Great Side Dishes:

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
  
• Grilled asparagus or broccolini
  
• Creamed spinach
  
• Balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts
  
• Charred corn on the cob
  

When serving guests, presentation matters. Slice the steak off the bone, then cut it into thick strips and fan it out on a cutting board or serving platter. Place the bone alongside the meat for a dramatic effect—it’s a guaranteed showstopper.

Wine & Drink Pairings:

Beverage Type	Best Options
Red Wine	Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah
Beer	Stout, Porter, Amber Ale
Non-Alcoholic	Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea

With the right pairings and presentation, your tomahawk steak becomes an unforgettable meal.

Read: How To Cook Impossible Burgers On The Grill?

FAQs on Grill A Tomahawk Steak On A Gas Grill

Let’s Sum It Up

A quick and delicious method to prepare this hearty cut of beef is to grill it on a gas grill. 

Preheat the grill to high heat, around 450–500°F. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and other desired seasonings.

When the steak’s internal temperature reaches the right level of doneness, put it on the grill grate and cook for 4–6 minutes on each side.

Let it rest for a few minutes so the juices can spread evenly through the meat; this will result in a tender, juicy, and flavorful tomahawk steak that’s sure to impress.

References:

1. https://www.weber.com/GB/en/blog/how-to-bbq-the-perfect-tomahawk-steak/weber-2176973.html 
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/grilled-tomahawk-steaks-with-resting-butter-8833050