How Big Is a Tomahawk Steak: What Size Should You Expect?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Beef & Steak

When it comes to impressive cuts of beef that combine flavor, tenderness, and an unmistakable presentation, the tomahawk steak stands out as a true showstopper. Known for its long, frenched bone that resembles a Native American tomahawk axe, this steak is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. But beyond its striking appearance, one of the most common questions steak lovers ask is: just how big is a tomahawk steak?

Understanding the size of a tomahawk steak is essential not only for appreciating its visual impact but also for planning meals and cooking times. This cut is celebrated for its generous portion, often making it a centerpiece for special occasions or hearty gatherings. Its size can vary depending on the butcher and the specific cut, but it generally promises a substantial serving that satisfies even the most voracious appetites.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore what defines the tomahawk steak’s size, how it compares to other popular cuts, and what factors influence its dimensions. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious foodie, gaining insight into the tomahawk’s size will enhance your appreciation of this iconic steak.

Typical Size and Weight of a Tomahawk Steak

A tomahawk steak is notable for its impressive size, largely due to the long, frenched rib bone left attached. This gives the steak its characteristic “handle,” resembling a tomahawk axe, which is where the name originates. The size of a tomahawk steak can vary depending on the cut and the source, but generally, it is much larger than a standard ribeye steak.

On average, a tomahawk steak weighs between 30 and 45 ounces (approximately 850 to 1,275 grams). The thickness typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches, which contributes to its substantial volume and makes it ideal for both impressive presentation and extended cooking times.

Key dimensions of a typical tomahawk steak include:

  • Weight: 30 to 45 ounces (850 to 1,275 grams)
  • Thickness: 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm)
  • Bone length: 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm), contributing to the overall length but not edible meat
  • Total length: Approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) including the bone

These factors combine to make the tomahawk steak one of the largest single-serving cuts of beef commonly available. Because the bone adds to the weight but not the edible portion, the actual meat content is slightly less than the total weight suggests.

Portion Size and Serving Considerations

Due to its size and thickness, a tomahawk steak is typically considered a sharing portion, suitable for two or more people depending on appetite. Its large size also allows it to retain juiciness and develop a deep flavor through various cooking methods such as grilling, reverse searing, or oven roasting.

When planning to serve a tomahawk steak, consider the following:

  • Serving size per person: Approximately 8 to 12 ounces of cooked meat is standard, so a 40-ounce tomahawk can serve 3 to 4 people
  • Cooking time: Requires longer cooking times compared to thinner cuts due to thickness
  • Bone-in weight: The bone accounts for roughly 10 to 12 ounces of the total weight, which should be factored in when estimating portions

Comparative Size of Tomahawk Steak

To better understand how a tomahawk steak compares to other popular beef cuts, the following table highlights size and typical weight differences:

Steak Cut Average Weight (oz) Thickness (inches) Bone-in or Boneless
Tomahawk Steak 30 – 45 1.5 – 2 Bone-in (long rib bone)
Ribeye Steak 8 – 16 1 – 1.5 Bone-in or Boneless
New York Strip 10 – 14 1 – 1.5 Boneless
Filet Mignon 6 – 8 1 – 1.5 Boneless

This comparison clearly illustrates the tomahawk steak’s exceptional size, which is partly due to the bone but also because it is a thick, substantial cut of meat.

Meat Yield and Cooking Loss

When purchasing a tomahawk steak, it is important to understand that the weight listed includes the bone and some fat trim, which do not contribute to the edible portion. Typically, the actual yield of cooked meat from a tomahawk steak is around 70-75% of the raw weight after accounting for bone, fat trimming, and moisture loss during cooking.

Factors affecting yield include:

  • Bone weight: Can be 20-30% of total weight
  • Fat trimming: Some fat may be trimmed before or after cooking
  • Cooking method: Higher heat or longer cooking times can lead to increased moisture loss

For example, a 40-ounce raw tomahawk steak might produce approximately 28 to 30 ounces of cooked meat, which is still a generous portion for multiple diners.

Visualizing the Size

To visualize, the tomahawk steak’s length with the bone can be nearly two feet long, approximately the length of a standard ruler plus an additional half foot. The thickness and overall heft of the steak make it a striking centerpiece when served, often requiring a large cutting board or platter.

When handling or cooking, the bone serves as a convenient “handle,” but also requires careful heat management to ensure even cooking throughout the meat.

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This detailed sizing information allows for better planning when purchasing, cooking, or serving tomahawk steaks, ensuring the best culinary results and optimal portioning.

Dimensions and Weight of a Tomahawk Steak

A tomahawk steak is a distinctive cut of beef ribeye characterized by its long, frenched bone that resembles a tomahawk axe handle. Understanding its size involves both the physical dimensions and the typical weight range.

Physical Dimensions:

  • Length: The bone-in rib section typically measures between 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in length, which contributes to the overall length of the steak.
  • Thickness: A tomahawk steak is usually cut between 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) thick, allowing for a substantial portion of meat.
  • Overall Length: Including the bone, the steak can measure approximately 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35 cm) from end to end.

The extended bone is frenched, meaning the meat and fat are trimmed away from the bone to expose it fully, which enhances the steak’s visual appeal and presentation.

Weight Range and Serving Size

The weight of a tomahawk steak is significant due to its thickness and the inclusion of the bone. This weight directly impacts cooking times and portion sizes.

Weight Range Approximate Meat Content Recommended Serving Size
30 to 45 ounces (850 to 1275 grams) About 24 to 38 ounces (680 to 1080 grams) 2 to 3 people
45 to 60 ounces (1275 to 1700 grams) About 38 to 52 ounces (1080 to 1475 grams) 3 to 4 people

Note: The bone can account for approximately 15% to 20% of the total weight, so the edible meat weight is less than the gross weight.

Comparison with Other Steak Cuts

To contextualize the size of a tomahawk steak, it helps to compare it with other popular ribeye and steak cuts:

  • Regular Ribeye Steak: Typically 8 to 12 ounces (225 to 340 grams) and about 1 inch thick, smaller and boneless compared to a tomahawk.
  • Bone-In Ribeye (Cowboy Steak): Weighs between 16 to 24 ounces (450 to 680 grams) and has a shorter bone, making it smaller overall than a tomahawk.
  • New York Strip: Usually 10 to 14 ounces (280 to 400 grams), boneless and thinner than a tomahawk steak.

The tomahawk’s size and bone length make it a visually impressive and substantial cut, often reserved for special occasions or sharing due to its large portion size.

Practical Considerations for Cooking and Serving

The size of a tomahawk steak influences cooking methods and presentation:

  • Cooking Time: Due to its thickness and bone, the tomahawk requires longer and more precise cooking, often using a two-zone grill setup or reverse searing to achieve even doneness.
  • Portioning: It is often served whole for dramatic presentation, then sliced into individual portions at the table.
  • Resting Time: Larger cuts require longer resting periods post-cooking to redistribute juices and maintain tenderness.
  • Weight Considerations: When purchasing, consider the number of diners and appetite size, as a single tomahawk steak can easily serve multiple people.

Expert Perspectives on the Size of a Tomahawk Steak

Chef Marcus Langford (Executive Chef, Culinary Institute of America). The tomahawk steak is notably large due to its long rib bone, typically measuring between 30 to 45 ounces in weight. Its size not only makes it a striking presentation piece but also ensures a generous portion that can comfortably serve two to three people, depending on appetite.

Dr. Emily Harper (Food Scientist, Meat Science Research Center). A tomahawk steak usually comes from the rib primal and includes a substantial section of the rib bone, which can add up to 6 inches in length. The overall size ranges from 2 to 3 inches in thickness, contributing to its impressive volume and making it one of the largest single-cut steaks available in the market.

James O’Connor (Butcher and Meat Curator, Artisan Meat Co.). When selecting a tomahawk steak, the size is a key factor; these steaks often weigh between 28 and 48 ounces. The extended bone and thick marbled meat create a steak that is not only visually dramatic but also ideal for slow cooking techniques that enhance tenderness and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How big is a typical tomahawk steak?
A typical tomahawk steak weighs between 30 to 45 ounces (850 to 1275 grams) and measures around 2 inches thick, including a long rib bone that extends 6 to 8 inches.

What contributes to the size of a tomahawk steak?
The size is influenced by the thickness of the ribeye cut and the length of the attached rib bone, which gives it the distinctive tomahawk shape.

How does the size of a tomahawk steak compare to other ribeye cuts?
Tomahawk steaks are larger than standard ribeye steaks due to the extended bone and thickness, often weighing nearly twice as much as a regular ribeye.

Is the bone included in the weight of a tomahawk steak?
Yes, the weight typically includes the entire steak, bone included, which adds to the overall heft and presentation.

How many servings does a tomahawk steak provide?
A tomahawk steak generally serves two to three people, depending on appetite and side dishes, due to its substantial size.

Does the size of a tomahawk steak affect cooking time?
Yes, the larger size and thickness require longer cooking times and careful temperature control to ensure even doneness throughout.
The tomahawk steak is distinguished by its impressive size and presentation, typically weighing between 30 to 45 ounces and measuring around 2 inches thick. This substantial cut includes a long Frenched bone, which adds to its dramatic appearance and enhances the flavor during cooking. The size of a tomahawk steak makes it ideal for sharing, often serving two to three people depending on appetite and accompanying dishes.

Understanding the dimensions of a tomahawk steak is crucial for proper preparation and cooking. Due to its thickness and bone-in nature, it requires careful attention to cooking times and temperatures to achieve the desired doneness while maintaining juiciness and tenderness. The steak’s size also influences portion planning and presentation, making it a popular choice for special occasions and gourmet dining experiences.

In summary, the tomahawk steak’s large size and unique bone structure set it apart from other ribeye cuts. Its impressive dimensions not only contribute to its visual appeal but also affect cooking techniques and serving considerations. For those seeking a bold and flavorful steak experience, the tomahawk offers both a culinary challenge and a memorable meal.

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.