Grilling a tri-tip steak is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, tender cut of beef that’s perfect for backyard BBQs, family dinners, or impressing your friends. If you’ve ever wondered how to grill a tri-tip steak to juicy, mouthwatering perfection, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through every step, from seasoning to resting, so you can confidently fire up your grill and serve up a delicious meal.
What Is Tri-Tip Steak?
Tri-tip is a triangular cut from the bottom sirloin of the cow. It’s known for its rich flavor and relatively lean texture, making it a favorite among grill enthusiasts. Because it’s a bit thicker than typical steaks, it requires a little care to cook evenly and retain juiciness.
Preparing Your Tri-Tip Steak for Grilling
1. Bring It to Room Temperature
Before grilling, take your tri-tip steak out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 30 to 60 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
2. Season Generously
A simple but flavorful rub works best. Combine kosher salt, coarse black pepper, and garlic powder in equal parts for a classic seasoning. Rub this mixture generously all over the tri-tip, making sure every side is well-coated. You can also add your favorite spices or use a pre-made beef rub.
How to Grill a Tri-Tip Steak: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat Your Grill
Set your grill for two-zone cooking: one side at medium-high heat (about 350°F) and the other side at indirect heat. This setup lets you sear the steak first and then finish cooking it gently without burning.
2. Sear the Tri-Tip
Place the tri-tip directly over the medium-high heat side of the grill. Grill it for about 5 minutes on the first side to develop a dark brown crust. Then flip and grill for another 5 to 8 minutes on the other side. This initial searing locks in the juices and adds a delicious smoky flavor.
3. Move to Indirect Heat and Continue Cooking
After searing, move the tri-tip to the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Close the lid and continue cooking, flipping every 6 to 7 minutes. This slower cooking helps the steak cook evenly without drying out. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, 135-145°F.
4. Optional: Mop for Extra Flavor
If you want to add moisture and flavor, prepare a mopping liquid made from olive oil, red wine, red wine vinegar, and crushed garlic. Brush this over the tri-tip every time you flip it during the indirect cooking phase.
5. Final Sear (Optional)
Once the tri-tip reaches about 120°F internally, you can move it back to direct heat for a quick 2-3 minute sear per side to finish cooking and enhance the crust.
Resting and Slicing Your Tri-Tip Steak
After removing the tri-tip from the grill, let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
When slicing, cut thinly against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers, which makes the steak easier to chew and more enjoyable.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Tri-Tip
– Use a meat thermometer: It’s the best way to ensure your steak is cooked exactly how you like it without guessing.
– Don’t salt too early: If you’re using a marinade with salt, avoid adding extra salt before grilling to prevent drying out the meat.
– Two-zone grilling is key: It allows you to sear and then cook gently, preventing burning and overcooking.
– Keep flipping during indirect cooking: Flipping every 6-7 minutes helps cook the meat evenly and prevents flare-ups.
Why Grill Tri-Tip?
Tri-tip is a flavorful, affordable cut that’s perfect for grilling. It has a great beefy taste and a texture that’s tender yet substantial. Grilling it properly brings out its best qualities, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Grilling a tri-tip steak is simple when you follow the right steps: season generously, sear over high heat, finish cooking over indirect heat, rest, and slice against the grain. With a bit of practice, you’ll be serving juicy, flavorful tri-tip that everyone will love. Enjoy your grilling adventure!