Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these mouthwatering best Tri Tip recipes! Tri Tip, also known as Triangle Steak, is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that’s perfect for grilled dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these 18 incredible recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary journey.
From classic flavors to bold twists, our collection includes everything from garlic herb butter roast to spicy Cajun tri tip with cajun butter, and many more mouthwatering options in between. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next BBQ party, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Tri Tip recipes and explore the countless ways you can prepare this delicious cut of beef. From marinades to glazes, sauces to spices, we’ll share our top tips and tricks for bringing out the best in every single recipe. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Garlic Herb Butter Tri Tip Roast
This recipe combines the richness of butter with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs, elevating the humble tri tip roast to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip roast
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
3. Season the tri tip roast with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the surface of the roast, making sure to cover all areas.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on roast size)
Smoked Tri Tip with Coffee Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this rich and aromatic recipe that combines the deep flavor of smoked tri tip with the bold, coffee-spiced rub. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef tri tip
– 1/2 cup coffee rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or mesquite work well)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Coffee Rub:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season tri tip with salt and pepper.
3. Apply coffee rub evenly, making sure to cover all surfaces.
4. Place tri tip in smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Santa Maria Style Tri Tip BBQ
Santa Maria Style Tri Tip BBQ: A Classic California Recipe
Santa Maria style BBQ is a legendary tradition originating from the Central Coast of California, particularly in Santa Barbara County. This recipe brings together the bold flavors and tender texture of slow-cooked tri-tip with the unmistakable aroma of mesquite wood.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef tri-tip roast
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri-tip roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip on the grill and close lid. Cook for 3-4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush with red wine vinegar and beef broth.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Tri Tip
This recipe combines the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to create a tender and aromatic tri tip roast. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs beef tri tip
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Place the tri tip in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat evenly.
4. Seal the bag or cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes for a 1.5-2 lb tri tip.
Tri Tip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentine-inspired dish combines the bold flavor of grilled tri tip steak with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
5. Stir in olive oil to create chimichurri sauce.
6. Serve grilled tri tip with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Tri Tip with Cajun Butter
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and spicy butter to create a mouth-watering dish that’s sure to please. With tender tri tip steak and a rich, buttery sauce, this is an ideal meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tri tip
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted.
5. Add garlic, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to the butter; stir to combine.
6. Sear the tri tip steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the Cajun butter sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this recipe that combines tender tri tip, crispy tortillas, and creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of fajita seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa ingredients:
+ 3 ripe avocados
+ 1 lime, juiced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix fajita seasoning with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Rub the mixture all over the tri-tip.
3. Grill the tri-tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, slice avocado into small pieces and combine with lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing the tri-tip against the grain and placing it onto the tortillas. Top with Avocado Salsa and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tri Tip Roast
Elevate your roast game with this flavorful and tender Balsamic Glazed Tri Tip Roast recipe. With a sweet and tangy glaze, this dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Season the tri tip roast with salt and pepper.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the meat.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 3-4 pound roast.
Tri Tip Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of tender tri tip steak and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) tri tip steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, cook onions in a large skillet over low heat with olive oil, stirring occasionally. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. Assemble sandwiches by slicing grilled tri tip and adding caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Tri Tip with Rosemary Garlic Marinade
Elevate your BBQ game with this flavorful and aromatic grilled tri tip recipe, infused with the classic combination of rosemary and garlic. Perfect for a summer gathering or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice.
3. Place the tri-tip in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the meat; seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Remove tri-tip from marinade; pat dry with paper towels.
6. Grill the tri-tip for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Salad with Blue Cheese and Walnuts
A classic salad gets a boost from tender tri tip, crumbly blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Tri Tip Roast, cooked and sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled Blue Cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Walnuts
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, tri tip strips, blue cheese, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (assuming cooked Tri Tip Roast)
Tri Tip Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Elevate your BBQ game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of tri tip steak with the sweetness of pineapple and bell peppers. Perfect for a summer gathering or quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tri tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Add sliced tri tip and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated tri tip, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until steak reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak with Red Wine Reduction
Experience the rich flavors of California-style cooking with this tender Tri Tip Steak served with a bold Red Wine Reduction. This classic recipe is perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds Tri Tip Steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. Rub the mixture all over the Tri Tip Steak.
3. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Alternatively, cook in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
4. While the steak is cooking, reduce red wine on medium heat by half, stirring occasionally. Add butter and whisk until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with the Red Wine Reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Chili with Beans and Spices
This classic chili recipe is a staple of any gathering, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main course. Tri-tip’s tender beef and bold flavors make it a standout among traditional chilies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri-tip steak
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (or 1 can)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the tri-tip in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add beans, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tri Tip Sliders with Horseradish Aioli
Elevate your slider game with this mouthwatering combination of tender tri tip, crispy bun, and creamy horseradish aioli. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tri tip roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Horseradish Aioli (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Tri Tip Sliders:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place tri tip roast in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill tri tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until medium-rare.
5. Slice into thin strips.
Horseradish Aioli:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
Assembly:
1. Assemble sliders with tri tip slices, aioli, lettuce, tomato, and onion (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Savor the bold flavors of this Tex-Mex classic, featuring tender tri-tip steak cooked to perfection with sautéed peppers and onions. This recipe is a quick and easy solution for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri-tip steak
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri-tip with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onions; cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Slice grilled tri-tip into thin strips.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing steak on tortillas, topping with pepper mixture, and adding optional toppings (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Pizza with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
Transform your pizza game with this savory and sweet combination of tender tri-tip, caramelized onions, and creamy gorgonzola.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri-tip steak
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the tri-tip over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked to your liking. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions in a separate pan with olive oil over low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness. Top with caramelized onions, sliced tri-tip, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden and toppings are heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tri Tip Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender tri tip beef with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri tip steak
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tri tip steak with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender.
5. Add heavy cream and bring mixture to simmer; let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Slice cooked tri tip into thin strips and add to the sauce; stir to combine.
7. Combine pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to grill up some mouthwatering Tri-Tip dishes! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your grilling skills to the next level. From classic BBQ to international-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Herb Butter Tri Tip Roast or Smoked Tri Tip with Coffee Rub for a rich and savory flavor. Or go bold with Spicy Cajun Tri Tip or Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Tri Tip. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to impress. So fire up the grill and get cooking!
