The first time I cooked a tri tip steak recipe, I had no idea it would become a weekend tradition in my house. This underrated cut, shaped like a triangle and bursting with beefy richness, might not be as famous as ribeye or tenderloin, but let me tell you, it should be.
If you’ve never tried tri tip, think of it as the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor. It’s ideal for those who love steak with a slightly chewy bite and a beautiful crust on the outside. This tri tip steak recipe is my go-to for family gatherings, Sunday BBQs, or whenever I want to feed a hungry crowd without breaking the bank.
You can grill it, roast it, or even sear and finish it in the oven. And with just a simple spice rub or marinade, you’ll transform this humble cut into something worthy of a steakhouse. Whether you’re new to tri tip or looking for a foolproof way to cook it right every time, this recipe has you covered.
Table of contents
- Why This Tri Tip Steak Recipe Works So Well
- Recipe Card
- Pro Tips for Cooking Tri Tip Steak Like a Pro
- Flavorful Variants of This Tri Tip Steak Recipe
- FAQs About Tri Tip Steak Recipe
- Health Benefits of Tri Tip Steak
- Pairing Suggestions for Tri Tip Steak
- Fun Fact About Tri Tip Steak
- Bring the Flavor with This Tri Tip Steak Recipe
Why This Tri Tip Steak Recipe Works So Well
Juicy, Tender, and Full of Flavor
When cooked right, tri tip stays juicy in the center with a beautiful crust on the outside. Because it’s not too thick and not too thin, it cooks evenly and quickly, especially when grilled or reverse seared. This balance of texture and taste makes it a crowd-pleaser, even among picky eaters.
Versatile Cooking Methods
This tri tip steak recipe works whether you grill, roast, or use a cast iron skillet. Grilling adds smoky char, oven roasting gives you consistent heat, and stovetop searing lets you build a deep crust. I’ll walk you through my favorite grilling method, but I’ll also note the oven-roasted alternative in the FAQ section.
Customizable Flavors
Another reason this recipe shines? You can take it in so many directions. Keep it classic with a garlic-herb rub, go smoky with paprika and chipotle, or even make it Asian-inspired with soy sauce and sesame oil. Because tri tip has a rich, beefy flavor, it pairs well with almost any marinade or dry rub.
Recipe Card
Tri Tip Steak Recipe
4
servings15
minutes30
minutes320
kcalThis tri tip steak recipe brings out the best in this underrated cut of beef, offering a mouthwatering balance of tenderness and flavor. With a savory marinade and the perfect cooking technique, this beef tri tip steak recipe creates a juicy, seared crust that’s guaranteed to impress family and friends.
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Ingredients
- For the Marinade
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano
- For the Steak
2 lbs tri tip steak (trimmed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and oregano. - Marinate the Tri Tip Steak:
Place the tri tip steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).
Preheat the Grill or Oven:
For grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
For oven roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F and have a cast-iron skillet ready.- Cook the Steak:
For Grilling: Sear the tri tip on each side for 4–5 minutes. Then, move it to indirect heat and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
For Oven Roasting: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes on each side, then transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 10–12 minutes. - Rest the Steak:
Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes under loosely tented foil. This allows the juices to redistribute. - Slice and Serve:
Slice the tri tip steak against the grain into thin strips. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Tri tip steak is best cooked to medium-rare or medium for optimal tenderness.
- Resting the steak after cooking is crucial to retain its juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer for precision; overcooking can lead to a tougher texture.
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Pro Tips for Cooking Tri Tip Steak Like a Pro
- The Right Marinade Matters: Use marinades with acidity (like Worcestershire or soy sauce) to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor.
- Room Temperature Is Key: Let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat and Prepare: Always preheat your grill or skillet to high heat to create a quick sear that locks in juices.
- Monitor the Temperature: An instant-read thermometer is your best friend. Overcooked tri tip can become tough, so aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Letting the steak rest under foil after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bite.
Flavorful Variants of This Tri Tip Steak Recipe
Santa Maria Style Tri Tip
This is the original California-style tri tip. Seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of cayenne or paprika, then grilled over red oak wood. Serve it with salsa, pinquito beans, and grilled French bread for the full Santa Maria experience.
Chimichurri-Topped Tri Tip
Cook the steak simply with salt and pepper, then top it with a vibrant green chimichurri made from parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and chili flakes. This Argentinian twist is perfect for summer grilling and adds brightness to the rich meat.
Asian-Inspired Tri Tip
Marinate the steak in a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Grill or sear it, then serve it thinly sliced over rice or soba noodles with scallions and sesame seeds.
Coffee-Rubbed Tri Tip
Create a bold dry rub using finely ground coffee, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. This version gives the steak a deep, smoky crust and pairs well with grilled corn and baked beans.
FAQs About Tri Tip Steak Recipe
Tri tip is a triangular-shaped cut of beef taken from the bottom sirloin. It’s known for its bold flavor and tender texture when cooked properly.
Absolutely! Use a cast-iron skillet to sear the steak, then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking.
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium, and 145°F for medium-well.
Yes, you can. A dry rub with your favorite spices will work just as well, though marinating adds extra depth to the flavor.
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad complement this dish perfectly.
Health Benefits of Tri Tip Steak
- Rich in Protein:
Tri tip steak is an excellent source of protein, aiding in muscle repair and overall growth. - Packed with Iron and Zinc:
These essential minerals boost immunity and improve oxygen transport in the body. - Low in Carbohydrates:
Perfect for keto or low-carb diets, this steak keeps you satiated without the carb overload. - Customizable Fat Content:
Trimming visible fat reduces the fat content, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Nutrition Information
This tri tip steak recipe is a protein-packed dish that balances calories with satisfying flavor. While exact values depend on the marinade and side dishes, here’s a general estimate for a 6 oz serving:
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
Pairing Suggestions for Tri Tip Steak
- Side Dishes:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a healthy balance.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and indulgent, they pair perfectly with the steak’s bold flavor.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Adds a sweet and smoky complement.
- Viral Cucumber Salad Recipe: A refreshing and crunchy counterpoint to the rich steak.
- Sauces:
- Chimichurri for a tangy, herby kick.
- Red wine reduction for an elegant touch.
- Horseradish cream for a spicy bite.
- Drinks:
- Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel.
- Craft Beer: A malty amber ale or porter.
- Mocktails: A rosemary lemonade or cucumber mint cooler.
Fun Fact About Tri Tip Steak
Tri tip steak originates from Santa Maria, California, and is a staple in Californian barbecue culture. It earned its name from its triangular shape and is beloved for its affordability and versatility. This cut was relatively unknown outside the West Coast until the 1950s, when it began gaining popularity nationwide due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.
Bring the Flavor with This Tri Tip Steak Recipe
Cooking this tri tip steak recipe is one of my favorite ways to impress without stress. With its rich flavor, forgiving texture, and wide range of serving possibilities, it’s the kind of dish that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation.
Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, hosting friends for dinner, or simply want a no-fuss steak that delivers every time, tri tip has your back. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and full of personality, just like your favorite go-to recipe should be.
Looking for a lighter dish to balance your meal? Try this Viral Cucumber Salad Recipe for a refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with tri tip steak.
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