How to Grill Ahi Tuna Steaks

Change up your grilling routine. It’s time to try something new on the grill. Trade in your classic burgers or salmon fillets and try grilling ahi tuna steaks. Grilling fish doesn’t get any easier than grilling ahi tuna steaks, with cook and prep time under 15 minutes. Seared perfectly on the outside, ahi tuna is the “steak of fish” with its mild, meaty flavor. Here’s how to grill ahi tuna perfectly every time.

The Best Tuna for Grilling

Ahi tuna – also called Yellowfin tuna – offers a firm texture that makes it a constant favorite. Our Yellowfin Tuna Steaks  are loved by chefs and seafood lovers for their bright pink color and mild, meaty flavor. The best thing about ahi tuna is that they are cut into steaks, which aren’t flaky, making them perfect for cooking on the grill.

How to Grill Ahi Tuna Steaks

Searing ahi tuna steaks on the grill is about as easy as it gets. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to grill ahi tuna steaks any night of the week.

1. Thaw Your Ahi Tuna Steaks

Thaw your tuna steaks using one of two methods. To thaw in the refrigerator, remove the desired amount of tuna steaks from the plastic packaging. Place your tuna steaks on a plate, cover, and refrigerate overnight. For quicker thawing, unpackage the desired number of tuna steaks and place them in a sealable plastic bag. Remove as much air from the bag as possible and immerse it in cold water for approximately 30 minutes. Once thawed, consume tuna steaks within one to two days.

2. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush some oil on your clean grill grates to help prevent the ahi tuna steaks from sticking.

3. Season Your Ahi Tuna Steaks

Pat your tuna steaks dry with a paper towel and brush with melted butter or olive oil. Season with salt and pepper or try our Omaha Steaks Seafood Rub with Citrus & Herb for the perfect seasoning to complement your ahi tuna steaks.

4. Grill Your Ahi Tuna Steaks

Place your thawed and seasoned ahi tuna steaks directly on the grill grates. If you prefer a medium-rare doneness cook the tuna steaks for 60-90 seconds on each side, or until seared. For a medium doneness, cook each tuna steak 4-5 minutes on each side or until opaque throughout.

Chef Tip: For optimal flavor, texture, and juiciness, yellowfin tuna is best when cooked to a medium-rare doneness. Overcooked tuna can be dry and less flavorful.

Serving Your Grilled Ahi Tuna Steaks

Grilled tuna is delicious and incredibly versatile. Sprinkle your tuna steaks with toasted sesame seeds or drizzle with sweet and sticky soy glaze. For a fresh taste of summer, top your tuna steaks with a sweet and spicy fresh mango salsa. Have leftovers? Grab a bed of your favorite leafy greens and top with your grilled ahi tuna with a zesty vinaigrette. The options are truly endless!

More Seafood Guides

• How to Pan Sear Ahi Tuna
• Beginner’s Guide to Seafood