Baked Tri Tip Recipe (How To Cook Steak In The Oven)

If you’re looking for a steak recipe that’s simple but delicious, this Tri Tip Recipe is a must-try. It’s super easy to make and packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Cooking steak in the oven might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s a breeze with the right steps.

Baked tri tip with mashed potatoes and green beans on a white plate.

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What’s great about this Tri Tip Steak Recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find this method straightforward and foolproof. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight family dinner to a fancy weekend feast.

If you are on the hunt for more beef recipes, I have a few more you might want to try out. If you have a slow cooker, you can enjoy a classic Beef Broccoli recipe. Or, for another classic, make this hearty classic beef stew.

Want to make your own seasoning? Check out this steak seasoning recipe to make your own seasoning rubs for steak.

Table of Contents

Why This Recipe Works

Simple Ingredients: The tri-tip roast is seasoned with basic pantry staples, making it convenient and accessible for everyone.
Rich Flavor: The combination of oven-roasting and homemade seasoning ensures the tender meat is juicy and bursting with savory flavors.
Versatility: This recipe suits various occasions, from casual family dinners to special celebrations, making it a versatile choice for any meal plan.
Effortless Cooking: Even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality steak at home with straightforward instructions and minimal preparation.

What Is Tri Tip Steak?

Tri-tip steak is a triangular shape cut of beef taken from the bottom sirloin roast located near the hip of the cow. This cut is known for its rich, beefy flavor and relatively tender texture, especially when properly cooked. The name “tri tip” comes from its distinctive triangle shape, and it typically weighs around 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.

Originally popular in California, tri-tip has gained widespread acclaim for its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s a lean delicious cut of meat with a small amount of fat marbling, which helps to keep it moist and flavorful while cooking. Tri tip can be grilled, smoked, or roasted, making it a popular choice for various cooking methods. It can yield a crusty, flavorful exterior and a juicy, tender interior when prepared correctly.

What’s In This Tri Tip Recipe?

Ingredients for tri tip sitting on a marble countertop.

Tri Tip: Tri tip is a triangular cut of beef from the bottom sirloin. It’s known for its excellent flavor and tenderness, especially when cooked to medium-rare.
Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is used for its high smoke point and mild flavor. It helps to sear the tri-tip, creating a beautiful crust while keeping the meat juicy.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous note to the dish. It’s often used as a finishing garnish, adding color and freshness.

Steak Seasoning

Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. It also helps to tenderize the tri tip by breaking down proteins.
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the seasoning blend. It’s a classic spice for seasoning beef.
Garlic Powder: Provides a deep, savory flavor that complements the beef without overpowering it.
Onion Powder: Adds a sweet, slightly pungent taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the seasoning mix.
Smoked Paprika: Introduces a rich, smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness, adding depth to the seasoning.
Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone to the seasoning mix, providing a subtle complexity to the meat.
Cayenne Pepper: Gives a spicy kick to the seasoning, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

The complete list of ingredients, quantities, and instructions can be found in the printable recipe card below.

A slice of baked tri tip sitting on a wooden board.

Substitutions and Additions

Tri Tip: If you can’t find tri tip, you can substitute it with other cuts of beef, such as flank steak, sirloin steak, or even ribeye. Each cut will have slightly different cooking times and flavor profiles, but they can still yield delicious results.
Avocado Oil: If you don’t have avocado oil on hand, olive oil or grapeseed oil can be used as replacements. Both have high smoke points and will help to sear the meat nicely.
Fresh Parsley: If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can use dried parsley in a pinch, though fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor and color. Alternatively, fresh cilantro can provide a different but equally delicious herbal note.

Additions

Rosemary and Thyme: Adding fresh or dried rosemary and thyme to the seasoning mix or marinade can infuse the tri tip with wonderful, aromatic flavors. These herbs pair beautifully with beef and can elevate the dish’s overall taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick. This will enhance the spiciness and add another layer of flavor for those who enjoy heat.
Lemon Zest: Adding a bit of lemon zest to the seasoning can introduce a bright, citrusy note that complements the rich, savory flavors of the beef. It can also help tenderize the meat while adding freshness.
Brown Sugar: Sprinkling a small amount of brown sugar into the seasoning mix can add a touch of sweetness and assist in creating a caramelized crust on the tri tip during cooking, resulting in a balanced flavor profile.

How To Make Steak Tri Tip Recipe (step-by-step directions)

Collage of adding seasoning on a tri tip.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, mix the steak seasoning. (Photos 1 & 2)
Trim excess fat with a sharp knife from the tri-tip if desired, then pat it dry with a paper towel. Rub the roast thoroughly with the dry rub seasoning. (Photos 3 & 4)

Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, add 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil and sear the roast for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and a crust forms. (Photo 5)
Transfer the skillet with the tri-tip to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes per pound, depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, remove from the oven at 125°F when the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part. The temperature will rise slightly as the meat rests.
Once the desired internal temperature is reached, remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Let the roast rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. (Photo 6)
Transfer the tri-tip to a cutting board and slice against the grain of the meat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with potatoes and a vegetable. (Photos 7 & 8)

Recipe Tips

Season in Advance: Season the tri-tip with the spice rub for several hours before cooking for the best flavor. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Room Temperature Meat: Allow the tri-tip to come to room temperature before searing. This helps with even cooking and searing.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your tri-tip is cooked to your desired doneness, use a meat thermometer. This is the most reliable way to achieve perfect results.
Rest the Meat: After cooking, let the tri-tip rest for at least 10 minutes. This redistributes the juices, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful roast.
Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the tri-tip, cut against the grain. This will ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Preheat Skillet Properly: Make sure your cast iron skillet is properly preheated to achieve a good sear, which locks in juices and adds flavor.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning mix to suit your taste preferences. More garlic or extra heat can personalize the dish.
Avoid Overcooking: Tri-tip is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium. Overcooking can make the meat tough and dry.

Alternate Cooking Methods

You can cook tri-tip in the Instant Pot, and it’s a great option for a tender and juicy tri-tip roast. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to adapt the recipe for the Instant Pot:

Prepare the Tri Tip: Just as with the original recipe, trim any excess fat from the tri-tip. Pat it dry with a paper towel and rub it thoroughly with the steak seasoning.
Sear the Meat: Turn the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ setting and allow it to heat up. Add 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, sear the tri-tip on each side for 4-5 minutes until browned and a crust forms.
Deglaze the Pot: After searing, remove the tri-tip and set it aside. Add a splash of beef broth to the Instant Pot to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will help prevent a burn notice and add flavor to your dish.
Pressure Cook: Place the tri-tip back into the pot. Add about 1 cup of beef broth or water to the pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your tri-tip and your desired level of doneness.
Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes. Then, release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to ‘Venting’.
Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the tri-tip from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Loosely tent it with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice against the grain, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve.

Storing Tips

To store leftover tri-tip, allow the meat to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

You can freeze the tri-tip for longer storage. After cooling the meat to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, place the wrapped tri-tip in a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date for easy reference. Frozen tri-tip can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat leftover tri-tip while preserving its moisture and flavor, follow these steps:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F. Place the leftover tri-tip in an oven-safe dish and splash a small amount of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and heat for approximately 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a small amount of beef broth or water. Place the sliced tri-tip in the skillet and cover. Heat for a few minutes, turning the slices occasionally until warmed through.
Microwave Method: Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, checking for doneness and avoiding overheating, which can dry out the meat.

A white plate of slices of beef garnished with chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving suggestions for tri-tip, there are many delicious options to complement the rich and savory flavors of the meat. Here are a few of our favorites:

Roasted Vegetables: Pair your tri-tip with a medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, roasted Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers. The caramelized exterior of the vegetables adds a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that matches the juicy beef well.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side that brings comfort and richness to the plate. Add a hint of roasted garlic for depth and complexity, or swap the potatoes and make sweet mashed potatoes instead.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred and seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon, grilled asparagus adds a fresh and slightly tangy contrast to the hearty tri-tip.
Caesar Salad: For a refreshing and crunchy side, serve a Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, Parmesan cheese, croutons, or any favorite green salad. The salad brings a cool balance to the warm, flavorful meat.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with crisp cabbage, carrots, and vinegar-based dressing adds a zesty and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory tri-tip.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with a bit of chili powder or Parmesan cheese makes for a delightful side. Or for a spicier option, make some sweet and spicy corn salsa.

Recipe FAQs

Can I marinate the tri-tip before cooking?

Yes, marinating the tri-tip can enhance its flavor and tenderness. You can prepare a marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Marinate the meat in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. Remember to pat the tri-tip dry before searing to ensure a good crust.

What’s the best way to slice tri-tip?

To achieve the best texture and tenderness, always slice tri-tip against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers running through the meat. Slicing against the grain makes each piece easier to chew, resulting in a more enjoyable eating experience.

How can I tell when the tri-tip is done cooking?

The most accurate way to determine if your tri-tip is done is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach about 135°F; for medium, it should be around 145°F. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat for the most accurate reading.

What can I do if my tri-tip turns out tough?

If your tri-tip comes out tough, it might be due to overcooking or incorrect slicing. Try to ensure the meat is cooked to the proper internal temperature, and always slice against the grain. If it’s already cooked, you can slice it thinly and use it in sandwiches or salads where the other ingredients can help balance out the texture.

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One Comment

Kim Schob says:

July 6, 2024 at 9:00 pm

If you want a simple yet delicious steak recipe, try this Tri-Tip Recipe. I hope everyone enjoys it!