When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked tri tip. This tender and flavorful cut of beef is a favorite among grill enthusiasts, and for good reason. Whether you’re looking for a classic BBQ flavor or something a little more adventurous, there are countless ways to prepare a delicious tri tip. In this article, we’ll explore 20 juicy tri tip recipes that will take your grilling game to the next level.
From garlic herb butter to spicy Cajun rubs, and from tangy balsamic glazes to sweet honey soy marinades, these recipes offer something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty sandwich or a light salad, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouth-watering tri tip recipes.
Garlic Herb Butter Tri Tip Roast
Elevate your roast game with this flavorful Garlic Herb Butter Tri Tip Roast recipe! This tender and juicy cut of beef is infused with the savory goodness of garlic, herbs, and butter for a truly mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri tip roast
– 2 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 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the tri tip roast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the surface of the roast, making sure to cover it completely.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Coffee Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked tri tip and a bold coffee rub. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or just a weekend cookout.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup coffee rub (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
Coffee Rub:
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee beans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the coffee rub ingredients.
3. Season the tri-tip roast with salt and black pepper.
4. Apply the coffee rub evenly to both sides of the roast.
5. Place the roast in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Finish with a glaze made from the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon water.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Santa Maria Style Tri Tip BBQ
Santa Maria Style Tri-Tip BBQ Recipe
Santa Maria-style BBQ is a legendary California tradition that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering. This recipe brings the classic flavors of tri-tip to your backyard with tender, flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri-tip, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Once cooked, let the tri-tip rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Total cooking time: approximately 45-60 minutes
– Internal temperature should reach 130°F to 135°F for medium-rare, 140°F to 145°F for medium, and 150°F to 155°F for medium-well
Balsamic Glazed Tri Tip Steak
Elevate your steak game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Glazed Tri Tip Steak recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the tri tip steak with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the steak.
6. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: You can make your own balsamic glaze by reducing 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened, or use store-bought balsamic glaze.
Tri Tip with Chimichurri Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of tri tip with the tangy, herby goodness of chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 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 with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill tri tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
5. Once tri tip is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve sliced tri tip with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Rubbed Tri Tip
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the tender texture of tri tip, all wrapped up in a spicy and savory package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip roast
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri tip roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes total
Honey Soy Marinated Tri Tip
Elevate your BBQ game with this sweet and savory marinated tri-tip recipe, perfect for a summer cookout or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
2. Add the tri-tip roast to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the tri-tip from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the tri-tip for 10-15 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the tri-tip rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Tri Tip Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines tender tri tip beef, crispy tortillas, and creamy avocado salsa for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tri tip beef
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Brush mixture on both sides of the tri tip beef.
3. Grill tri tip for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, toast tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill for a few seconds.
5. Slice grilled tri tip into thin strips.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced beef, avocado salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Tri Tip Roast
This recipe combines the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic with the tender texture of tri-tip roast, resulting in a mouthwatering main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound beef tri-tip roast
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Rub the rosemary-garlic 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 (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1.5-2 pound roast.
Tri Tip Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
A classic combination of tender beef, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions on toasted bread, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Tri tip roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the Tri tip with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then set aside.
4. In the same skillet, cook the onions and garlic over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Grill the Tri tip to desired level of doneness (medium-rare recommended).
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled Tri tip on toasted buns, topping with caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Cooking Time:
– Tri tip cooking time: 15-20 minutes
– Caramelized onion cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
This salad combines the bold flavors of grilled tri tip, tangy blue cheese dressing, and crunchy veggies for a satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to elevate their salad game!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Tri Tip roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp Blue Cheese Dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season tri tip with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
2. Let the tri tip rest for 10 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and parsley.
4. Drizzle Blue Cheese Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top with sliced tri tip and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (includes grill time)
Peppercorn Crusted Tri Tip
Elevate your dinner game with this peppery twist on a classic cut of beef. The combination of tender tri tip and crunchy peppercorn crust is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri-tip roast
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, grind black peppercorns and coriander seeds into a coarse mixture.
3. Mix ground spices with kosher salt, brown sugar, and a pinch of black pepper.
4. Pat tri tip dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the roast, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tri tip for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Stir Fry with Vegetables
Quickly cook tender tri-tip steak with a colorful medley of vegetables and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri-tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli; cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add tri-tip strips to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Tri Tip Sliders with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these flavorful Tri Tip Sliders topped with a spicy kick from chipotle mayo. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Tri Tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Chipotle Mayo (see below for recipe)
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the Tri Tip strips.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble sliders with chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other toppings.
Chipotle Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tri Tip Kebabs with Pineapple Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful tri-tip kebabs, marinated to perfection in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tri-tip, sliced into 1-inch thick strips
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pineapple chunks and cherry tomatoes for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced tri-tip to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated beef onto skewers.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately with pineapple chunks and cherry tomatoes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tri Tip Pizza with Caramelized Onions
A savory twist on traditional pizza, this recipe features tender tri-tip steak paired with sweet caramelized onions and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri-tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the tri-tip steak strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Spread pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with cooked tri-tip steak strips, caramelized onions, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tri Tip Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish featuring tender tri-tip steak and a decadent mushroom cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 1 lb. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tri-tip steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and thyme. Bring to simmer over medium heat.
6. Combine reserved pasta water and cream mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Toss cooked pasta with mushroom and steak mixture, then top with creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Elevate your nacho game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring tender tri-tip, spicy jalapeños, and a rich blend of cheeses. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Season tri-tip with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or cook according to package instructions until medium-rare.
3. Meanwhile, arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Top chips with black beans, sliced jalapeño, and shredded cheese.
5. Slice cooked tri-tip into thin strips and place on top of nachos.
6. Drizzle lime juice over the dish.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Burrito Bowl with Cilantro Lime Rice
Savor the flavors of a classic burrito bowl, elevated by tender tri-tip and zesty cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tri-tip roast
– 2 cups cilantro lime rice (recipe below)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Cilantro Lime Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season tri-tip with salt and pepper, then roast for 20-25 minutes or until medium-rare.
3. Cook cilantro lime rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add black beans and peas and carrots; cook until heated through.
5. Slice roasted tri-tip into thin strips. Assemble burrito bowls by placing sliced meat on top of the rice mixture.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tri Tip and Potato Hash
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled tri tip with a crispy potato hash, perfect for a satisfying meal or gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri tip
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip with salt and pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. While the tri tip is cooking, combine potatoes, onion, and garlic in a large bowl.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add potato mixture and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve grilled tri tip with potato hash and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the rich flavor of tri tip! This article presents 20 mouthwatering recipes that will take your grilling game to the next level. From classic BBQ styles to international twists, these recipes showcase the versatility of tri tip. Try garlic herb butter roasting, smoked coffee rubs, or spicy Cajun seasonings. Or, go for a bold and zesty chimichurri sauce or caramelized onion slaw. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, tacos, sandwiches, or a hearty stir-fry, there’s something on this list for everyone.
