If you’re looking for a flavorful, juicy roast that’s easy to prepare, cooking a tri-tip in the oven is a fantastic choice. This cut of beef, known for its rich taste and tender texture, is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you master the art of oven-roasted tri-tip.
What Is Tri-Tip?
Tri-tip is a triangular muscle cut from the bottom sirloin. It’s a lean yet flavorful piece of beef, popular especially on the West Coast of the U.S. When cooked right, it’s juicy, tender, and packed with beefy goodness. A typical tri-tip roast weighs about 3 pounds and can serve 4 to 6 people comfortably.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 3 lb tri-tip roast
– Kosher salt (about 1 tablespoon)
– Garlic powder (½ tablespoon)
– Onion powder (½ tablespoon)
– Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
– Cooking oil (such as grape seed or vegetable oil)
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth (for basting)
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or create your own dry rub using spices you love.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Tri-Tip
Start by rinsing the tri-tip under cold water and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a good sear later.
2. Season Generously
Mix kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning all over the tri-tip, making sure every side is well coated. For best flavor, place the seasoned tri-tip in a resealable bag and marinate it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
3. Bring to Room Temperature
Take the tri-tip out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
4. Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, heat an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of cooking oil to the pan.
5. Sear the Tri-Tip
Place the tri-tip fat-side down in the hot skillet and sear for about 8 minutes until a nice brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for a similar amount of time. Searing locks in the juices and adds flavor.
6. Roast in the Oven
Pour 1 cup of chicken or beef broth into the skillet to keep the meat moist. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the tri-tip until it reaches your desired doneness:
– Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C) internal temperature
– Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C) internal temperature
This usually takes about 1½ to 2 hours depending on your oven and the size of the roast. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.
7. Baste and Rest
While roasting, baste the tri-tip occasionally with the pan juices to keep it juicy. Once done, remove the roast from the oven and baste it one last time. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes, tented loosely with foil. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and flavorful.
8. Slice and Serve
Slice the tri-tip thinly against the grain. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Tri-Tip
– Keep the fat cap on: The layer of fat helps baste the meat naturally during cooking, enhancing juiciness.
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your tri-tip is cooked perfectly to your liking without guesswork.
– Don’t skip the sear: Searing adds a beautiful crust and flavor that roasting alone can’t achieve.
– Adjust cooking times for size: Larger tri-tips will take longer to cook; smaller ones less. Always rely on temperature rather than time alone.
Why Cook Tri-Tip in the Oven?
While tri-tip is often grilled or smoked, the oven is a convenient and reliable method that works year-round. It’s especially useful when outdoor cooking isn’t an option. Plus, oven roasting allows you to control the cooking environment precisely, resulting in tender, juicy meat every time.
Cooking tri-tip in the oven is straightforward and rewarding. With simple seasoning, a good sear, and careful roasting, you’ll enjoy a delicious, tender roast that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with this classic beef cut!