Our recipe for a Traeger Tomahawk Ribeye is an impressive way to cook this massive, flavorful steak perfectly, every time. By smoking the steak at a low temperature and then searing it over high heat, you get a tender, smoky flavor paired with a beautiful crust. This reverse-sear technique guarantees you even cooking and a juicy interior. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or just craving a top-tier steak, you will have mouthwatering, restaurant-quality results every time.

Traeger Tomahawk Ribeye

Are you looking for a steak that’ll make people say, “WHOA”? 

You totally found it. 

The next time you are reaching for a delicious steak option, seek out this trendy cut and fire up the grill. You’re about to wow people. 

Tomahawk ribeyes are known for their impressive presentation and rich flavor. Using a Traeger grill lets you get perfect results every time.

What is a tomahawk ribeye?

The Tomahawk ribeye is a large, impressive cut of beef that is known for resembling a tomahawk. Sometimes called a bone-in ribeye, this popular cut of steak leaves a large, long bone attached to the classic ribeye cut. 

Cooking meat on the bone gives it more flavor, and you can’t beat the presentation of this impressive steak.

Don’t be intimidated by how large it is. I’m going to give you a foolproof way to make sure your steak is perfectly cooked, amazingly tender, and the perfect temperature. 

Get our 75 ESSENTIAL Traeger Recipes here!

Traeger Tomahawk shopping list

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Tomahawk Steak
• OWYD SPG Seasoning (Salt, Pepper, Garlic)

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How to make a Tomahawk Ribeye on the Traeger

This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.

1. Preheat Your Grill: Start by setting your Traeger grill to 180°F and allow it to preheat.
2. Season the Steak: Generously coat the tomahawk ribeye with OWYD SPG seasoning.
3. Smoke the Steak: Place the steak on the grill and smoke it until the internal temperature reaches 100°F, which takes about 1.5 hours.
4. Sear on High Heat: Remove the steak and raise the grill temperature to 450°F. Once the grill is hot, sear the steak, flipping every 2 minutes and rotating for grill marks.
5. Rest and Slice: Once the steak reaches 125°F for medium doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 8-10 minutes before slicing.

Serve with our Loaded Smoked Baked Potato!

Why cook steak at home?

I love cooking steak at home because SO MANY restaurants do it wrong. Also, I hate ordering things out that I could make BETTER at home and without a ton of effort. 

That’s also one of the reasons I eat Ramen so much when I’m traveling or just going out to dinner. I can totally cook it at home. But it takes 4 days to get to the actual final result, and I have to seriously gear myself up.

There is also the COST factor.

Restaurant tomahawk ribeyes are even more marked up than your average steak, and unless you are eating at WAY fancier restaurants than I am (entirely possible), you aren’t even getting a higher grade of meat. 

More great BEEF recipes here!

Traeger Tomahawk FAQ

How should I store leftover tomahawk steak?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, slice the steak before storing to make reheating easier.

How do I reheat the steak without drying it out?

Reheat the steak gently by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a low oven (250°F) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a hot skillet for a quick sear.

Can I prepare the steak in advance?

Yes! You can smoke the steak in advance, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, sear it over high heat to finish.

What can I use as a substitute for OWYD SPG seasoning?

If you don’t have SPG, you can make a simple substitute with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in equal parts.

Where can you buy a tomahawk steak?

You should be able to find a good tomahawk at your local butcher shop. If you typically shop at regular grocery stores for your meat, try requesting these specifically if they don’t have them out on the shelves.

I’ve also found tomahawk ribeyes at Costco and my local small grocer as well, so keep your eyes open!

What’s the difference between a tomahawk ribeye and a cowboy ribeye?

Very little.

They are basically the same thing, but the cowboy ribeye has a shorter bone.

What other ways can you cook a tomahawk?

You can cook this steak in a lot of different ways. We’ve done great steaks on the Blackstone. You can also just grill them hot and fast instead of reverse searing.

Have some Grilled Asparagus with this!

Serve This With…

Steak and potatoes is a perfect match, so for starters, I’d suggest getting some baby potatoes and doing a batch of Smoked Smashed Potatoes. Another great option would be our Smoked Potato Stacks.

More great beef recipes to love!

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Spicy Blackstone Flat Iron Steak

Blackstone Tri-Tip