Tri tip steak (and roast) is a triangular-shaped cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin primal cut and is known for its rich flavor and tenderness. This versatile cut can be grilled, roasted, or smoked, and it can be served as a main course or sliced thinly against the grain for sandwiches and salads.

Grilled Tri Tip Steak
Grilling is the most popular way to cook tri tip steak, and it’s easy to see why. The high heat of the grill gives the steak a nice, charred crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To prepare the steak for grilling, season it with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer (like our own Christensen Ranch Steak Seasoning or Coffee Chili Seasoning). Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to allow it to cook more evenly.

• Preheat your grill to high heat
• Place the steak on the grill, fat side down
• Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F for medium-rare
• Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it against the grain

Roasted Tri Tip Steak
Preheat your oven to 425°F and then season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer.

• Place the steak in a roasting pan, fat side up
• Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F for medium-rare
• Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing

Smoked Tri Tip Steak
If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can also smoke Tri Tip Steak. Preheat your smoker to 225°F and season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer.

• Place the steak on the smoker
• Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F for medium-rare
• Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing

No matter how you choose to cook your tri tip steak, it’s important to let it rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, which makes for a more tender and flavorful steak.