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How to Cook Tri-Tip

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-90 minutes (depending on method)
  • Total Time: Varies
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling, Smoking, Roasting
  • Cuisine: American, BBQ
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Tri-tip is a flavorful and juicy cut of beef that’s perfect for grilling, smoking, or oven-roasting. This triangular cut from the bottom sirloin is known for its rich marbling and bold beefy taste. Whether you want a perfect crust on the grill, a smoky BBQ flavor, or an easy oven method, this guide will help you cook tri-tip to perfection!


Ingredients

  • 2-3 lb tri-tip roast

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)


Instructions

Grilled Tri-Tip (Best for a Charred Crust)

  1. Prepare the tri-tip – Pat the meat dry, rub it with olive oil, and coat it evenly with the seasoning mix. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

  2. Preheat the grill – Set up a two-zone fire on your grill (high heat on one side, low heat on the other).

  3. Sear the tri-tip – Place the meat over high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side to develop a good crust.

  4. Move to indirect heat – Transfer to the cooler side of the grill and cook until it reaches 130-135°F (medium-rare) or 140-145°F (medium). This takes about 20-30 minutes.

  5. Rest & slice – Let the tri-tip rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain for the most tender bites.


Smoked Tri-Tip (For a Rich, Smoky Flavor)

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F using oak, hickory, or mesquite wood.

  2. Season the tri-tip as described above and place it on the smoker.

  3. Smoke until 125-130°F (medium-rare) – This takes about 1.5-2 hours.

  4. Sear for a crust – Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill and sear each side for about 1-2 minutes.

  5. Rest & slice – Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.


Oven-Roasted Tri-Tip (Great for Indoors Cooking)

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.

  2. Sear the tri-tip – In an oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Sear the meat for 3-4 minutes per side.

  3. Roast – Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 10-15 minutes per pound, until the internal temp reaches 130-135°F (medium-rare).

  4. Rest & slice – Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.


Notes

  • Internal Temp Guide:

    • Rare: 120-125°F

    • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F

    • Medium: 140-145°F

    • Well-Done (not recommended!): 155°F+

  • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

  • Marinades work great for tri-tip! Try a mix of soy sauce, Worcestershire, garlic, and lemon juice for extra flavor.

 

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.