Grilling a Juicy Tri Tip Like a Pro: Tips, Techniques, and Perfect Slices

Servings: 1 Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
Master the art of grilling tri tip for a juicy, tender finish every time.
Image of Raw Tri Tip on Cutting Board: "Raw tri tip steak on a wooden cutting board, trimmed and ready for seasoning. View Gallery 3 photos

Introduction

Tri tip is a West Coast classic known for its rich beefy flavor, ideal marbling, and perfect balance between tenderness and chew. If you’re ready to master the art of grilling a tri tip that’s juicy, flavorful, and seared to perfection, this guide will walk you through each step. From seasoning and grilling to slicing for maximum tenderness, here’s everything you need to know to grill tri tip like a pro.

Image of Raw Tri Tip on Cutting Board: "Raw tri tip steak on a wooden cutting board, trimmed and ready for seasoning.
Prepping the Tri Tip: Seasoning is Key to Juicy, Flavorful Grilled Steak

  1. Why Tri Tip? The Unique Cut Explained
  2. Prepping Your Tri Tip: Essential Tips
  3. Choosing the Right Seasoning for Bold Flavor
  4. Setting Up Your Grill for Even Cooking
  5. Grilling Techniques for a Perfect Tri Tip
  6. Searing the Tri Tip: Achieving the Ultimate Crust
  7. Slicing Against the Grain for Maximum Tenderness
  8. Serving Suggestions and Final Thoughts

Tri tip is a triangular cut of beef taken from the bottom sirloin. While it’s especially popular on the West Coast, it’s gaining traction everywhere thanks to its robust flavor and marbling. This cut is particularly known for:

  • Great flavor-to-cost ratio: Compared to other popular cuts like ribeye, tri tip is affordable but packed with flavor.
  • Unique texture: When cooked and sliced properly, it provides a satisfying bite without being tough.

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Before you fire up the grill, it’s essential to prep your tri tip for the best results. Here are a few steps:

  • Trim the fat carefully: While a little fat enhances flavor, trim away any excess. Leaving about a 1/4-inch layer allows for flavor without excess grease.
  • Pat dry: Ensure your tri tip is dry before applying seasoning; this will help the seasoning adhere better and promote an even crust during searing.

By properly prepping the meat, you’re setting yourself up for a flavorful result.

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The seasoning process is crucial for bringing out the best in tri tip. Here’s a simple, flavorful method:

  • Binder: Start with a binder like olive oil or mustard. This helps the seasoning stick while adding a subtle layer of flavor.
  • Seasoning blend: Use a mix of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. For an extra kick, consider adding paprika or chili powder.

Generously coat the tri tip on all sides, including the edges, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate.

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To achieve the perfect tri tip, setting up your grill correctly is key:

  • Two-zone heating: Create a hot direct zone and a cooler indirect zone. Use charcoal on one side for direct heat, and place a water pan on the other side to keep the meat moist.
  • Position the meat properly: Place the thicker end of the tri tip closer to the heat source and the thinner end farther away for even cooking.

Grilling Tip: If using a gas grill, turn on one side to high heat and keep the other side on low to mimic two-zone heating.

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Once your grill is ready, it’s time to start grilling:

  • Initial cook: Place the tri tip on the indirect heat side, with the thicker side near the heat source. Close the lid and cook at about 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare.
  • Monitoring temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. This is essential to avoid overcooking, as tri tip can dry out quickly.

Patience is essential here—slow cooking on indirect heat allows for a juicy, evenly cooked tri tip.

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Searing adds texture and flavor to your tri tip, creating a beautifully caramelized crust:

  • Move to direct heat: Once the tri tip reaches 125°F internally, transfer it to the hot side of the grill.
  • Quick sear: Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes or until a crust forms. This will also add a smoky, slightly charred flavor.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, brush the tri tip with melted butter or garlic-infused olive oil during searing.

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One of the keys to a tender tri tip is slicing it correctly. Here’s how to do it like a pro:

  • Identify the grain: Tri tip has two different grain directions. Look for the natural lines in the meat; you’ll see one side has a different grain pattern than the other.
  • Slice across the grain: Start slicing on the thinner end and work your way across the meat, adjusting your angle as the grain shifts. Thin, bias-cut slices yield the best texture.

This slicing technique is crucial for maximizing tenderness, especially with a lean cut like tri tip.

Now that your tri tip is grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve it up. Here are a few ideas:

  • Tri tip sandwiches: Place a few slices on a toasted roll with mayonnaise, fresh greens, and a dash of barbecue sauce.
  • Tri tip tacos: Thinly slice the tri tip and serve in tortillas with salsa, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Classic plate: Serve with grilled vegetables and a side of garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Final Thought: Grilling tri tip may seem intimidating, but with the right preparation and grilling technique, anyone can achieve a restaurant-quality result at home. Remember, the key is in the details—from seasoning and grill setup to slicing against the grain.

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Grilling a juicy tri tip requires attention to detail, but once you understand the process, it’s an easy, rewarding experience. With a few simple steps seasoning well, using indirect heat, searing for crust, and slicing against the grain you’ll be ready to enjoy this beefy masterpiece like a pro.

Image of Raw Tri Tip on Cutting Board: "Raw tri tip steak on a wooden cutting board, trimmed and ready for seasoning.
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Grilling a Juicy Tri Tip Like a Pro: Tips, Techniques, and Perfect Slices

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 25 mins
Cooking Temp: 177  °C Servings: 1 Estimated Cost: $ 20
Best Season: Fall

Description

This step-by-step guide will walk you through grilling a perfect tri tip. Learn how to season, grill, and slice tri tip like a pro, achieving an irresistible smoky flavor and juicy texture that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Instructions

Video
  1. Rinse and sort the kidney beans. Soak the beans in a large pot of water for at least 8 hours, or overnight.

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  2. Drain and rinse the beans. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.

  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) 🔥.

  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion 🧅, bell pepper, and garlic 🧄, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

  5. Add the oregano, basil, salt 🧂, and black pepper, and stir to combine.

  6. Add the tomato sauce 🍅 and cooked beans to the skillet and stir to combine.

  7. Spread the bean mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the vegan cheese 🧀 shreds and vegan parmesan cheese on top.

  8. Bake for 10-15 minutes 🕒, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  9. Serve hot ♨ and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1


Amount Per Serving
Calories 386kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16.7g26%
Saturated Fat 2.4g12%
Total Carbohydrate 56.5g19%
Sugars 7.5g
Protein 18.2g37%

Vitamin A 302 IU
Vitamin C 12 mg
Calcium 135 mg
Iron 7 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

You can also use other types of beans in this recipe, such as black beans or pinto beans.

Feel free to get creative and add your favorite pizza toppings to the mix!

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Keywords: grilled tri tip, juicy tri tip, grilling beef, BBQ tri tip, tri tip recipe, grilling tips, pro grilling

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of dry beans in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse the beans well before using them.

Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of bean in this recipe, such as pinto beans or black beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of vegan cheese in this recipe if you prefer. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well and has a similar flavor to the cheese listed in the recipe.

Can I add other toppings to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other toppings to this recipe if you like. Some options might include diced vegetables, vegan sausage, or vegan pepperoni. Just be sure to add these toppings after you have spread the bean mixture on the baking sheet, and before you add the cheese.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Just be sure to wrap the baked beans tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in an airtight container or bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the beans in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them in a 350°F (180°C) oven until they are hot and bubbly.

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Said Ashad

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Said , a food blogger, I live in Morocco with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.

About Author

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