Tri Tip Two Ways-Easy Delicious Steak Recipes

Tri Tip, that wonderfully tender and flavorful cut of beef, is an absolute gem for any grill master or home cook looking to impress. It’s a cut that’s surprisingly forgiving, yet delivers a steakhouse-worthy experience without breaking the bank. What’s not to love about this lean yet juicy triangle of deliciousness? Its distinct grain allows for incredible marbling and a rich, beefy taste that makes it a perennial favorite for backyard BBQs and Sunday dinners alike. But the true magic of Tri Tip lies in its versatility. Today, we’re diving into not just one, but two fantastic ways to prepare this magnificent cut, showcasing how the humble Tri Tip can transform into entirely different culinary experiences.

Ready to explore the delicious possibilities of Tri Tip?

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Tri Tip (2 Ways)

Tri tip is a fantastic cut of beef, incredibly flavorful and surprisingly forgiving for home cooks. It comes from the bottom sirloin and, when cooked correctly, is tender and juicy with a wonderful crust. I love tri tip because it’s versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner or a more impressive gathering. Today, I’m showing you my two favorite ways to prepare it: a classic roast with a simple, robust seasoning blend, and a marinated and grilled version that’s perfect for warmer weather.

Ingredients:

Method 1: The Classic Oven Roast

This is my go-to method when I want a foolproof and incredibly delicious tri tip without a lot of fuss. The oven does most of the work, and the result is a perfectly cooked roast that slices beautifully.

Step 1: Prepare the Rub and the Roast

Start by patting your tri tip roast completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a good sear and a beautiful crust. In a small bowl, combine the garlic salt, Lawry’s seasoning salt, kosher salt, black pepper, sugar, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well-combined. This blend creates a savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic seasoning that will adhere beautifully to the roast.

Step 2: Season Generously

Drizzle the olive oil all over the tri tip roast, ensuring it’s lightly coated. Then, generously sprinkle the prepared seasoning rub all over the roast, making sure to coat all sides, including the ends. Gently press the seasoning into the meat with your hands to help it stick. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; the tri tip is a substantial cut, and it can handle it.

Step 3: Sear for the Crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal for this) over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the seasoned tri tip roast into the skillet. Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. This searing step is essential for developing rich flavor and a desirable texture.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Once seared, transfer the skillet with the tri tip roast directly into the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast registers 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. For medium, aim for 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember that the temperature will continue to rise as the roast rests.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

This is perhaps the most important step for a tender tri tip. Once the roast reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful. After resting, slice the tri tip against the grain. Look for the direction of the muscle fibers and slice perpendicular to them. This will guarantee maximum tenderness.

Method 2: The Marinated and Grilled Tri Tip

This method brings a smoky, grilled flavor to the tri tip and is a fantastic choice for outdoor cooking. The marinade infuses the meat with a bright, savory taste.

Step 1: Create the Marinade

In a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, garlic salt, Lawry’s seasoning salt, kosher salt, black pepper, sugar, garlic powder, and parsley. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Marinate the Tri Tip

Place the tri tip roast into the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct and indirect heat.

Step 4: Grill the Tri Tip

Remove the tri tip from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the tri tip on the hottest part of the grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, searing it to develop a beautiful crust. Then, move the roast to the cooler, indirect heat side of the grill (if using a charcoal grill) or reduce the heat slightly on a gas grill. Continue to grill, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. This will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your grill and the thickness of the roast. Use your trusty meat thermometer!

Step 5: Rest and Enjoy

Just like with the oven-roasted method, resting is paramount for a juicy tri tip. Remove the grilled tri tip from the grill and place it on a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Slice against the grain for the most tender results.

Both of these methods showcase the wonderful qualities of tri tip. Whether you choose the ease of the oven or the smoky char of the grill, you’re in for a treat!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! Two fantastic ways to prepare a Tri Tip roast that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe offers a delicious and approachable way to enjoy this flavorful cut of beef. The beauty of the tri-tip lies in its versatility and incredible tenderness when cooked correctly. We’ve shown you how to achieve a perfect sear on the grill and a beautifully roasted finish in the oven, giving you options to suit any occasion or preference. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings – a simple salt and pepper is classic, but feel free to explore marinades and rubs!

When it comes to serving, this versatile roast pairs wonderfully with classic steakhouse sides like roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh green salad. For a more casual affair, slice it thin and serve it in sandwiches or tacos. You can also easily adapt these recipes by experimenting with different herbs and spices. Try a rosemary and garlic rub for a more traditional flavor, or go for a smoky paprika and chili powder blend for a bit of a kick. I truly encourage you to try this tri tip recipe – it’s a crowd-pleaser and a rewarding culinary adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know when my tri tip is cooked to the right temperature?

The best way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Remove it from the heat at this temperature, and it will continue to rise a few degrees as it rests.

Can I prepare the tri tip ahead of time?

Yes! You can absolutely marinate the tri tip for several hours, or even overnight, in the refrigerator. For grilling, you can also pre-sear it and then finish it in the oven later. Just ensure you reheat it gently to avoid drying it out.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem at all! The oven-roasted method is just as delicious. You’ll still achieve a fantastic sear by starting it in a very hot oven and then reducing the temperature to finish cooking.

Tri Tip (2 Ways)

A versatile tri tip roast prepared two delicious ways: one seasoned simply and the other with a flavorful herb marinade.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
1 Hours

Total Time
20 Minutes

Servings
6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 pound tri tip roast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 1 tablespoon Lawry’s seasoning salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Divide the tri tip roast into two equal portions for the two preparation methods.
2. Step 2
   For the first tri tip, generously rub with garlic salt, Lawry’s seasoning salt, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3
   For the second tri tip, in a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sugar, garlic powder, parsley, and a pinch of kosher salt. Rub this mixture all over the second tri tip.
4. Step 4
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill for medium-high heat.
5. Step 5
   Sear both tri tips for 2-3 minutes per side on the grill or in a hot, oven-safe skillet on the stovetop. If oven roasting, transfer to a baking sheet.
6. Step 6
   Transfer to the preheated oven or grill. Cook for approximately 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Step 7
   Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.