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13 Delicious Ways To Make Tri Tip

If you’re a fan of tri-tip, this collection of recipes will give you plenty of ways to cook it to perfection. Whether you prefer grilling, smoking, or slow-cooking, each method brings out the best in this flavorful cut of beef. From classic Santa Maria seasoning to bold marinades, there’s something here for every taste.

Looking for a quick and easy option? Try the Blackstone or grilled tri-tip recipes for a fast, flavorful meal. If you have time to spare, the smoked and reverse-seared options offer deep, smoky flavors with a juicy, tender bite. For something unique, the brisket-style “Trisket” slow-smokes the tri-tip until fall-apart tender.

No matter which method you choose, these recipes make it simple to cook tri-tip like a pro. Fire up the grill, smoker, or slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a steakhouse-quality meal at home. Which one are you trying first?

Blackstone Tri-Tip

Blackstone Tri-Tip. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This tri-tip is seared on a Blackstone griddle for a crisp, caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The high-heat method locks in flavor, making it a quick and satisfying option for steak lovers.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tri-Tip

Smoked Tri-Tip

Smoked Tri-Tip. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

This reverse-seared tri-tip transforms a budget-friendly cut into a steakhouse-quality dish. Slow-smoked for tenderness, then finished with a high-heat sear, it delivers a perfect edge-to-edge pink center.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tri-Tip

Tri Tip Bites

Tri Tip Bites. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Bite-sized pieces of marinated tri-tip are grilled until tender and smoky. These flavorful beef bites work as a hearty appetizer or a main dish, packed with bold seasoning in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Tri Tip Bites

Tri Tip Beef Birria

Tri Tip Beef Birria. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Tri-tip is slow-cooked in a rich, spiced broth until tender, creating a deep, savory flavor. Serve it in tacos, quesadillas, or enjoy it on its own with a side of the flavorful broth for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Tri Tip Beef Birria

Grilled Tri Tip Recipe

Grilled Tri Tip Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This tri-tip is coated in a bold seasoning blend and grilled to perfection, creating a smoky crust while keeping the inside juicy. A simple but impressive main course for any barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Tri Tip Recipe

How To Cook Tri Tip

How To Cook Tri Tip. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A step-by-step guide covering different ways to cook tri-tip, from grilling to roasting and smoking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this breakdown helps you get the best results.
Get the Recipe: How To Cook Tri Tip

Smoked Tri Tip with Santa Maria Seasoning

Smoked Tri Tip with Santa Maria Seasoning. Photo credit: Foodie and Wine.

Classic Santa Maria seasoning gives this smoked tri-tip its signature flavor. It’s slow-cooked and reverse-seared for a juicy, tender finish with a flavorful crust.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tri Tip with Santa Maria Seasoning

How to Smoke Tri Tip Roast (Easy Smoker Recipe)

How to Smoke Tri Tip Roast (Easy Smoker Recipe). Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

This simple smoked tri-tip recipe features a flavorful dry rub and slow cooking to achieve a juicy, smoky finish. The result? A perfectly tender cut with a rich crust and a beautiful smoke ring.
Get the Recipe: How to Smoke Tri Tip Roast (Easy Smoker Recipe)

Smoked Brisket-Style Tri-Tip [TRISKET]

Smoked Brisket-Style Tri-Tip [TRISKET]. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This recipe treats tri-tip like brisket, smoking it low and slow until fork-tender. The result is a unique fusion of two barbecue favorites—perfect for those who love both cuts.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket-Style Tri-Tip [TRISKET]

Smoked Tri-Tip Recipe

Smoked Tri-Tip Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A no-fuss smoked tri-tip recipe that highlights the natural flavors of this cut. Simple seasoning and slow smoking make it a go-to for barbecue lovers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tri-Tip Recipe

Traeger Tri-Tip

Traeger Tri-Tip. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This tri-tip is seasoned and smoked on a Traeger grill, giving it a juicy interior and a smoky, flavorful crust. A great option for cookouts or casual family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Tri-Tip

Slow Cooker Tri Tip

Slow Cooker Tri Tip. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This slow-cooked tri-tip requires minimal prep but delivers big flavor. Cooked with fresh herbs and a few simple ingredients, it’s a tender, fuss-free meal perfect for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tri Tip

Reverse Sear Tri Tip

Reverse Sear Tri Tip. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

A slow cook followed by a final sear creates a perfectly tender tri-tip with a rich, caramelized crust. This method locks in juices and enhances flavor, making it a must-try for steak lovers.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Sear Tri Tip