If you’re looking for a flavorful, juicy, and tender roast that’s easy to make, cooking a tri-tip roast in the oven is a fantastic choice. This cut of beef, known for its triangular shape and rich taste, is perfect for a memorable meal without needing a grill or smoker. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you master the art of oven-roasting tri-tip.
What Is Tri-Tip?
Tri-tip is a triangular muscle cut from the bottom sirloin. It’s sometimes called a triangle roast or California cut. This cut became popular in Santa Maria, California, and is prized for its beefy flavor and relatively affordable price compared to other steaks. When cooked right, tri-tip is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
Why Cook Tri-Tip in the Oven?
While tri-tip is often grilled, oven roasting is a convenient and reliable method that works year-round. It’s simple, requires minimal equipment, and delivers a beautifully cooked roast with a crispy crust and tender inside. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy tri-tip when outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 2 to 2 ½ pounds tri-tip roast
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 ½ teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
– 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder or smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
You can customize your rub with other spices like brown sugar, cayenne pepper, onion powder, or dried rosemary if you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Tri-Tip Roast in the Oven
1. Prepare the Spice Rub and Season the Meat
Mix salt, pepper, ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tri-tip roast. This seasoning adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
2. Let the Meat Rest
Allow the seasoned tri-tip to rest at room temperature for about 1 hour. This step helps the meat cook evenly. Alternatively, you can cover and refrigerate the roast for up to 24 hours, then bring it to room temperature before cooking.
3. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare for the roasting process.
4. Set Up Your Roasting Pan
Place an oven-safe wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet. Put the tri-tip on the rack. This setup allows air to circulate around the roast for even cooking and helps the bottom stay crispy.
5. Insert a Meat Thermometer
For the best results, insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tri-tip. Set it to your desired doneness temperature-120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, or 135°F for medium.
6. Roast the Tri-Tip
Place the tri-tip in the preheated oven. Roast until the thermometer reads about 5 degrees less than your target temperature. This usually takes 40 to 55 minutes but can vary depending on the roast’s size and thickness.
7. Sear the Roast for a Perfect Crust
While the tri-tip is roasting, preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable or olive oil. Once the roast reaches the near-final temperature, transfer it to the hot skillet and sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until it develops a beautiful brown crust. This reverse sear adds flavor and texture.
8. Rest the Meat Before Slicing
Remove the tri-tip from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy roast.
9. Slice Against the Grain and Serve
Tri-tip has distinct muscle fibers, so it’s important to slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve your tri-tip roast with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Oven-Roasted Tri-Tip
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the key to avoiding overcooking or undercooking your roast.
– Rest the meat: Don’t skip resting-it makes a big difference in juiciness.
– Customize your rub: Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, chili powder, or coffee grounds for a unique flavor twist.
– Sear last: The reverse sear method locks in flavor and creates a crispy crust without drying out the meat.
Serving Suggestions
Tri-tip pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also slice it thin and use it for sandwiches or tacos.
Cooking a tri-tip roast in the oven is straightforward and yields delicious results every time. With a simple spice rub, careful roasting, and a quick sear, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful roast perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with this tasty, easy-to-make beef roast!