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Tender Grilled Tri-Tip Steak Recipe Easy Perfectly Charred for Beginners

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A simple and quick grilled tri-tip steak recipe that delivers a tender, juicy steak with a perfectly charred crust, ideal for beginners and backyard BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds tri-tip steak, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt or kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim and prepare the tri-tip steak. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 5 minutes).
  2. Mix the dry rub by combining garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and chopped rosemary if using in a small bowl.
  3. Brush the steak with olive oil on both sides to help the spices adhere and promote caramelization.
  4. Apply the dry rub generously on both sides of the tri-tip, pressing lightly to stick. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce before the rub if desired.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). For charcoal, wait until covered with white ash (10-15 minutes).
  6. Sear the steak directly over the heat for about 4-5 minutes per side to form a charred crust (about 10 minutes total).
  7. Move the steak to indirect heat, close the lid, and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for medium-rare at 130-135°F.
  8. Transfer the tri-tip to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
  9. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve immediately.

Notes

If edges char too quickly, move steak away from direct heat sooner. Avoid piercing the meat to keep juices locked in. Let steak rest after grilling to redistribute juices. For indoor cooking, sear in cast-iron skillet and finish in 400°F oven for 20 minutes.

Nutrition

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