What is better than a juicy steak on a hot summer day? This recipe uses Member’s Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning to add a flavor explosion of caramelized applewood flavor, brown sugar, roasted garlic, and a hint of chipotle. It’s simple, straightforward, and satisfying!
What is a Tomahawk Ribeye?
A tomahawk ribeye is a large, bone-in ribeye steak that’s known for its dramatic presentation—it’s essentially a ribeye with the entire rib bone left long and frenched (cleaned of meat and fat). The long bone resembles the handle of a tomahawk axe, which is where it gets its name.
Key features:
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Cut: From the rib primal section, same as a regular ribeye, but with the long rib bone attached.
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Flavor: Rich and juicy, with excellent marbling.
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Size: Usually weighs 30-45 ounces (1.5-2.5 pounds) because of the bone.
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Cooking: Often seared and finished in the oven or grilled over indirect heat because of its thickness.
It’s popular in steakhouses and known for its show-stopping appearance!
Tips for Grilling a Tomahawk Ribeye
Grilling a tomahawk ribeye is all about treating it like the showstopper it is! Here are some tips to make sure it comes out juicy and packed with flavor:
1. Prep and Temper the Steak
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Bring it to room temperature: Take the steak out of the fridge about an hour before grilling. This ensures even cooking.
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Season generously: Use plenty of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Optionally, add garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak rub.
2. Preheat and Set Up Your Grill
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Set up for two-zone grilling: Create a hot direct heat zone and a cooler indirect heat zone.
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Preheat to high (450-500°F) for searing, with an indirect zone around 250-300°F.
3. Reverse Sear for Best Results
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Start low and slow: Place the steak on the indirect heat zone first. Close the lid and let it cook slowly until it reaches an internal temp of about 110-115°F for medium rare.
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Sear last: Move the steak to the direct heat zone and sear for 1-2 minutes per side to get a beautiful crust. Don’t forget to sear the edges!
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
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For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F after resting (remove from the grill at 125°F).
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For medium, aim for about 140°F (pull off at 135°F).
5. Let it Rest
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After grilling, let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping it juicy.
6. Carve and Serve
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Slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
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Consider finishing with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a pat of compound butter for extra richness.

Member's Mark™ Sweet Applewood Tomahawk Ribeye Steaks
Ingredients
- 2 Tomahawk ribeye beef steaks
- Avocado oil
- Member's Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning as desired
- Butter room temperature
Instructions
- 20 minutes prior to grilling, ignite a full chimney of charcoal. Once glowing and just ashed over, pour the embers to one side of the grill floor, creating a 2-zone cooking surface.
- Meanwhile, splash the steaks with avocado oil, then season boldly with Member's Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning.
- Place the well-seasoned steaks over the cooler, indirectly heated grill grates, rotating, turning, and basting intermittently until the internal temperature has reached 110℉.
- Transfer the steaks directly atop the charcoal embers, searing, caramelizing, and encrusting the steaks until the internal temperature reaches 125℉ for medium-rare, or 140℉ for medium.
- Remove steaks from the heat, rest uncovered for 5-10 minutes, and allow carryover cooking to finish the job. Season additionally to taste, carve from the bone, and slice on the bias and across the grain.