Whether or not you should marinate BBQ steaks depends on the cut of beef you’re cooking. Leaner cuts, such as BBQ sirloin steak and rump steak, are perfect to marinate, as it helps tenderise the meat while infusing it with extra flavour. A marinade with ingredients like olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and citrus can break down tougher fibres, making the steak juicier and more flavourful when grilled. On the other hand, well-marbled cuts like ribeye and tomahawk steaks are naturally tender and packed with rich beefy flavour. These steaks don’t require marinating and are best enjoyed with simple seasonings such as salt, black pepper, and garlic butter, which enhance their natural juiciness. For an extra boost of flavour, you can baste them with herb butter or a light glaze during grilling.  

If you do choose to marinate your steak, aim for at least 2-6 hours for the flavours to penetrate, but avoid over-marinating, as acidic ingredients can break down the meat too much. No matter the cut, allowing the steak to rest after grilling will help retain its juices for the best BBQ experience. 

To achieve the perfect sear on your BBQ steaks, start by patting the steak dry with a paper towel before cooking, excess moisture can prevent proper browning. The perfect sear enhances the flavour, creating a delicious, caramelised crust while keeping the inside juicy. Next, preheat your grill to high heat, a scorching grill surface ensures an instant sear, locking in juices and developing a flavourful crust. For the best texture, flip the steak only once during cooking, constant flipping prevents proper caramelisation and can lead to uneven cooking. For even better results, consider brushing the steak lightly with oil before grilling as it can help enhance browning. With these simple steps, you’ll achieve a steakhouse-quality BBQ beef steak with the perfect sear every time.

When grilling BBQ steak, it’s best to lightly oil the steak itself, rather than the grill. This helps create an even sear, enhances browning, and prevents the meat from sticking to the grates. Oiling the grill directly can cause excess smoke and flare-ups, which might lead to uneven cooking or a burnt exterior. To apply the oil, use a high smoke point oil and brush or rub a thin layer over the steak before seasoning. This not only helps the seasonings adhere better but also promotes a beautifully caramelised crust. You may also want to make sure your grill grates are clean and preheated before adding the steak. This combination of a properly oiled steak and a hot grill will give you a perfectly cooked BBQ beef steak with great flavour and texture. 

Cooking a BBQ Tomahawk Steak to perfection involves several key steps to ensure a flavourful and tender result. Here’s our guide:  

1. Preparation: Begin by removing the tomahawk steak from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat. 
2. Preheating the Grill: Heat your BBQ grill to a high temperature, approximately 250°C. For gas grills, this may take 20-30 minutes, while charcoal grills might require at least 30 minutes until the coals are covered in white ash. 
3. Seasoning: Lightly brush the steak with olive oil or duck fat to prevent sticking. Season with your preferred spices or simply with salt and pepper. 
4. Searing: Place the steak on the hot grill and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until you achieve a smoky sear. 
5. Cooking Through: After searing, reduce the grill’s heat or move the steak to a cooler section. Close the lid and continue cooking for 8-10 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 54°C, turning the steak once halfway through. 
6. Resting and Serving: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill, sprinkle with salt, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Adding garlic butter during this resting period can enhance the flavour as it melts over the meat. 

For a detailed guide and additional tips, refer to our guide on how to BBQ Tomahawk steak. 

The best seasonings for BBQ steak enhance its natural flavours while adding depth and richness. A classic seasoning of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder is simple yet effective, perfect for cuts like BBQ sirloin steak or BBQ tomahawk steak. For a bolder taste, a smoky BBQ rub made with paprika, cumin, brown sugar, cayenne, and a touch of salt and pepper adds a deep, smoky aroma with a balance of sweetness and heat. For a rich, buttery finish, brushing the steak with melted butter infused with garlic, parsley, and thyme just before serving creates a luxurious texture and flavour, making it a great choice for BBQ tomahawk steak. No matter the seasoning, always let your steak rest after grilling to lock in the juices and enhance the taste.

A perfectly grilled BBQ steak deserves delicious sides that complement its rich, smoky flavour. Classic BBQ sides like grilled corn on the cob, baked potatoes, and creamy coleslaw add comforting textures and flavours that pair beautifully with BBQ beef steak, BBQ sirloin steak, or BBQ tomahawk steak. If you prefer bolder flavours, try chimichurri sauce for a tangy, herby kick, garlic butter mushrooms for a savoury umami boost, or BBQ beans for a hearty, smoky addition. For those looking for lighter options, fresh, vibrant sides like crisp green salads, grilled asparagus, and roasted peppers balance the richness of the meat while adding freshness to your BBQ feast. Whether you prefer classic or adventurous pairings, the right side dishes will elevate your BBQ beef steak recipe to a restaurant-quality meal.