Best Easy Tri-Tip Steak Recipe

Santa Maria-style tri-tip steak rubbed with garlic and spices and grilled over red oak is a Central California family BBQ tradition. This lean, high protein, carnivore-worthy cut is juicy, flavorful, and easy to master.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 290 kcal
#high protein #carnivore #BBQ #grilled steak
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • tri-tip roast 2.5 lbs
  • garlic cloves 4 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 2 tbsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 1.5 tbsp
  • paprika 1 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • onion powder 1 tsp
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 1 g 1%
Protein 37 g 51%
Fat 15 g 48%
Serving size 170g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Trim the tri-tip roast of any large surface fat, then pat dry with paper towels for an even sear.

  2. 2

    Mash garlic cloves into a paste and combine with kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, onion powder, and olive oil to form a thick rub.

  3. 3

    Massage the rub evenly onto all sides of the beef, cover, and let rest at room temperature for 45–60 minutes to promote even cooking.

  4. 4

    Preheat your grill for a two-zone fire (medium-high heat on one side, indirect on the other), ideally using red oak wood for authentic flavor.

  5. 5

    Sear the tri-tip over direct heat for about 6–8 minutes per side until deeply browned, then transfer to indirect heat; cover and grill for 20–30 minutes more, turning as needed, until an internal thermometer reads 130–135°F for medium-rare.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain to ensure maximum juiciness.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Tri-Tip Steak Recipe?
The star ingredient is the tri-tip roast, a lean, triangular beef cut that defines Santa Maria-style barbecue. The generous garlic and robust spice rub, including black pepper and paprika, are essential to the distinctive flavor of this classic recipe.
Q. How should I control the heat for juicy, evenly cooked tri-tip?
Begin by searing the tri-tip over direct heat to build a savory crust, then finish over indirect heat to gently bring the roast to your target doneness. Using a two-zone grill setup and watching for an internal temperature of 130–135°F ensures the steak stays juicy and tender.
Q. How do I avoid a dry or tough tri-tip steak?
Avoid overcooking by removing the tri-tip from the grill once it reaches the correct internal temperature, then let it rest for 10–15 minutes. Slicing thinly against the grain further enhances tenderness and moisture, minimizing any risk of dryness.
Q. What are the nutrition facts per serving for this recipe?
Each 170g serving contains approximately 290 kcal, with 37g protein (51%), 1g carbohydrates (1%), and 15g fat (48%), making it a lean, high-protein, low-carb option for steak lovers.
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