When it comes to grilling, few cuts of meat can match the tender, juicy flavor of a perfectly cooked tri tip steak. This versatile cut of beef is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, and when paired with a variety of marinades, sauces, and seasonings, the possibilities are endless.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and chimichurri sauce, to more adventurous options like smoked coffee rub and spicy Korean-style flavors, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering tri tip steak recipes that are sure to elevate your grilling game. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these savory and sweet creations will inspire you to get creative with this crowd-pleasing cut of beef.
Garlic Butter Tri Tip Steak
This Garlic Butter Tri Tip Steak recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its tender and juicy texture, this steak is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Season the tri tip steak with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the steak on a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan lined with aluminum foil.
5. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the steak, making sure to cover all surfaces.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Tri Tip with Coffee Rub
Elevate your barbecue game with this rich and aromatic smoked tri tip recipe, infused with a bold coffee rub that adds depth and complexity to the tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup coffee rub (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coffee Rub:
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee rub ingredients.
3. Season the tri-tip roast with salt and pepper.
4. Apply the coffee rub evenly to both sides of the roast.
5. Place the roast in the smoker, fat side up.
6. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Santa Maria-Style Tri Tip
Santa Maria-Style Tri Tip Recipe: A Classic California Culinary Tradition
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Santa Maria Valley’s tri-tip tradition, with a classic marinade and tender grilling technique. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual cookouts!
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the tri-tip in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove tri-tip from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the tri-tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness (130°F – 135°F internal temperature for medium-rare).
5. Let the tri-tip rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentine-inspired dish combines the tender flavor of tri tip steak with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for grilling or pan-searing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip steak
– Chimichurri Sauce (see below)
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill or sear steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
4. Meanwhile, combine chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve tri tip steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tri Tip
This recipe takes the classic grilled tri-tip to the next level with a rich balsamic glaze that adds a tangy, caramel-like flavor. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tri-tip roast on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush the glaze all over the tri-tip.
5. Let the tri-tip rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender tri tip steak with a creamy avocado salsa for a deliciously fresh and savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip steak.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
5. Slice the steak into thin strips.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary and Garlic Tri Tip Roast
This recipe brings together the earthy flavor of rosemary and the pungency of garlic to elevate a classic tri tip roast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri tip roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 130°F for medium-rare.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours
Spicy Korean-Style Tri Tip
This recipe adds a bold twist to traditional tri tip with the spicy flavors of Korean chili flakes and soy sauce, perfect for adventurous eaters. Marinated in a sweet and savory mixture, this dish is sure to please even the most skeptical palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri-tip roast
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Place the tri-tip in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the tri-tip from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Roast the tri-tip in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 2-3 pound tri-tip roast.
Tri Tip Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
A classic sandwich elevated by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the tender flavor of tri tip steak.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs Tri Tip Steak
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 4 hamburger buns
– Mayonnaise or spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip steak with salt and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown.
4. Assemble sandwiches by slicing cooked tri tip steak against the grain, then topping with caramelized onions, parsley, and mayonnaise or spread (if using).
5. Serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tri Tip with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender tri tip recipe, paired with a rich red wine reduction that’s sure to impress. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Season the tri-tip with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the tri-tip in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the red wine mixture over the meat, making sure it’s coated evenly.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Remove the tri-tip from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours
Honey Sriracha Glazed Tri Tip
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and spicy Honey Sriracha Glazed Tri Tip recipe. A perfect blend of honey’s richness and sriracha’s heat, this glaze adds a depth of flavor to the tender and juicy tri tip.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) beef tri tip
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, and garlic until smooth.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of the tri tip.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F – 135°F for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tri Tip Steak and Mushroom Skewers
Elevate your barbecue game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender tri tip steak with earthy mushrooms, all wrapped up in a flavorful skewer. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tri tip steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), stems removed and caps sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add steak and mushrooms to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread 2-3 pieces of steak and 2-3 mushroom caps onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until steak reaches desired doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Blackened Tri Tip with Cajun Spices
A flavorful twist on traditional tri tip, this recipe combines the bold flavors of cajun spices with a crispy blackening crust. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the tri tip roast with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tri tip for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Remove the tri tip from the skillet and brush the blackening mixture evenly onto all surfaces.
6. Return the tri tip to the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Salad with Blue Cheese
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and hearty Tri Tip Steak Salad featuring tangy blue cheese crumbles. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines tender grilled steak, crisp greens, and creamy blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 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. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blue cheese crumbles, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top salad with sliced tri tip steak and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip with Herb Compound Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the tender flavors of tri tip with a rich and herby compound butter. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, rosemary, thyme, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season the tri tip with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill the tri tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread the herb compound butter evenly over the tri tip.
6. Let the tri tip rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Tri Tip in Red Sauce
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This slow-cooked tri tip is fall-apart tender and smothered in a rich, tangy red sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip roast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the tri tip with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tri tip until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the skillet contents to a slow cooker. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Place the seared tri tip in the slow cooker and cover.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove the tri tip from the slow cooker and slice against the grain. Serve with the rich red sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Tri Tip Steak Fajitas
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of grilled tri tip steak and sautéed vegetables to create a mouthwatering fajita dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, juicy texture and savory spices, this Tri Tip Steak Fajitas is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the tri tip steak.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and bell peppers; cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
6. Slice the grilled tri tip into thin strips.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing steak and vegetables onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip with Roasted Garlic Aioli
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of tri tip with the rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic aioli. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri-tip roast
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tri tip with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the garlic by placing it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzling with olive oil, and folding the foil into a packet. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
4. In a bowl, mix together roasted garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the aioli.
5. Grill or pan-fry the tri tip to desired level of doneness (medium-rare recommended).
6. Serve the tri tip with the roasted garlic aioli spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for roasted garlic, 10-15 minutes for tri tip cooking time.
Tri Tip Steak and Potato Hash
This recipe combines the rich flavor of tri-tip steak with a crispy and flavorful potato hash, perfect for a hearty dinner or weekend brunch. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri-tip steak
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tri-tip steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, cook the diced potatoes and onion in the same skillet used for the steak, adding garlic and seasonings as desired. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tri Tip with Bourbon Peppercorn Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of bourbon and peppercorns paired with tender tri tip, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner. This recipe combines bold flavors with ease of preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef tri tip
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup bourbon
– 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, peppercorns, garlic, and mustard. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, season tri tip with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-fry the tri tip to desired doneness (10-12 minutes per side for medium-rare).
4. Brush the bourbon peppercorn sauce over the tri tip during the last minute of cooking.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the bold flavors of tri-tip steak! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this tender cut. From classic combinations like garlic butter and Santa Maria-style marinades, to international twists like Korean BBQ and Cajun spices, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these savory tri-tip steak recipes are sure to impress.
