Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 18 mouth-watering tri tip steak recipes! Tri tip steaks are a favorite among meat lovers, and for good reason – they’re tender, flavorful, and pair well with a wide range of seasonings and marinades. From classic grilled steaks to smoky ribs-inspired recipes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these tri tip steak recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 savory tri tip steak recipes that showcase the versatility of this popular cut of beef. From tender and juicy grilled steaks to bold and smoky slow-cooked masterpieces, every recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors in your tri tip steak.
Grilled Tri Tip Steak with Garlic Herb Butter
This recipe brings together the rich flavor of grilled tri tip steak and the savory goodness of garlic herb butter for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pound tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup 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 grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season tri tip steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill tri tip steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter evenly over the steak.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Tri Tip Steak with Coffee Rub
Elevate your grilling game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the tender tri tip steak with a rich coffee rub. The result is a perfectly smoky and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the tri tip steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the steak in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Tri Tip Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the West Coast with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender tri tip steak, crunchy tacos, and a creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place tri tip steak in a large zip-top plastic bag; pour marinade over steak. Seal bag; massage to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill or cook steak according to desired level of doneness. Slice into thin strips.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in damp paper towels and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, avocado salsa, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (grilling) + 10 minutes (marinating)
Santa Maria Style Tri Tip Steak
Experience the authentic taste of Santa Barbara’s famous barbecue scene with this mouthwatering tri tip steak recipe, smothered in a rich and tangy sauce. This iconic dish is perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1/2 cup Santa Maria-style seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. Rub tri-tip with Santa Maria-style seasoning blend, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Grill tri-tip for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
5. Brush the glaze over tri-tip during last 2-3 minutes of grilling.
6. Let steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A classic combination of tender tri-tip steak, crisp greens, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds tri-tip steak
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season tri-tip steak with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
2. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled tri-tip steak against the grain and add to the salad bowl.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Tri Tip Steak with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this impressive yet straightforward recipe that pairs tender tri-tip steak with a rich and fruity red wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs tri-tip steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
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 high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to the oven and cook to desired doneness, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, reduce red wine and beef broth by half on medium-high heat.
5. Add butter and garlic to the skillet; whisk until smooth.
6. Serve the pan-seared steak with the rich red wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Sandwiches with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your sandwich game with tender tri tip steak and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri tip roast
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
3. While the steak cooks, caramelize onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown.
4. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced tri tip on buns, topping with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Tri Tip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful combination of tender tri tip steak and tangy chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 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 to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place tri tip steak in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix together remaining chimichurri sauce ingredients (vinegar, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper).
6. Serve grilled tri tip with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak and Roasted Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional skewers, this recipe pairs tender tri tip steak with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or seasoning blend
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the tri tip steak on a separate baking sheet or plate.
5. Cook the skewers for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Meanwhile, cook the tri tip steak to desired doneness (medium-rare is recommended).
7. Serve the steak alongside the roasted vegetable skewers.
Cooking Time:
– Tri tip steak: 15-20 minutes
– Roasted vegetable skewers: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Tri Tip Steak with BBQ Glaze
This tender and flavorful slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this tri tip steak is smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the tri tip steak with salt and pepper.
2. Place the steak in a slow cooker and add the brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid and brush the BBQ glaze all over the steak.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Tri Tip Steak Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional fajitas, featuring tender tri tip steak, sautéed peppers, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
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
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season tri tip steak with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add sliced peppers and onions; cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Slice grilled steak against the grain into thin strips.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing steak, peppers, and onions onto tortillas. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Stir-Fry with Asian Noodles
A flavorful and quick-cooking stir-fry recipe that combines the tenderness of tri tip steak with the chewiness of Asian noodles, all wrapped up in a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri tip steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed Asian noodles (e.g., soba, udon, and rice noodles)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (e.g., red, yellow, green), sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add bell peppers and continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Return steak to the pan; cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Serve noodles topped with steak, vegetables, and garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak with Creamy Horseradish Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of a classic Western-style steak paired with a tangy and creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a great way to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the tri tip steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the steak is cooking, combine cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
5. Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Serve with creamy horseradish sauce spooned over the top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tri Tip Steak and Potato Hash
A classic combination of tender tri tip steak paired with a crispy potato hash, perfect for a hearty meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip steak
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tri tip steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook the steak for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. While the steak cooks, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the onion and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Slice the cooked tri tip steak against the grain and serve with the potato hash.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes total, including steak cooking time.
Tri Tip Steak with Blue Cheese Butter
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and indulgent recipe that combines the richness of blue cheese with the tender juiciness of tri tip steak.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) tri tip steak
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter, blue cheese, and garlic in a small bowl.
5. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Spread the blue cheese butter on top of the sliced steak.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty dish combines the rich flavor of tri tip steak with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds Tri Tip Steak
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tri tip steak with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then finish cooking in the oven for 10-12 minutes.
3. Cook the Arborio rice according to package instructions.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
5. Combine the cooked risotto with the mushroom mixture and warmed broth, stirring constantly.
6. Add the butter and white wine (if using), then season to taste.
7. Slice the tri tip steak against the grain and serve with the risotto.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tri Tip Steak Kebabs with Pineapple Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavor of tri tip steak with the tropical twist of pineapple marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tri tip steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Add the tri tip steak cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated steak cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tri Tip Steak with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of this tender tri tip steak paired with creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
For the Tri Tip Steak:
– 1.5-2 pounds tri tip steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
For the Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tri tip steak with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, toss the potato cubes with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
5. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the potatoes, then mash in heavy cream or half-and-half to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in some mouth-watering tri tip steak recipes! From classic grilled tri tip with garlic herb butter to smoky tri tip with coffee rub, these savory dishes are sure to please. Try your hand at tri tip tacos with avocado salsa or go for a more elegant approach with pan-seared tri tip with red wine sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something casual and comforting or a little more adventurous, this collection of 18 recipes has got you covered.
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