Barbecue Tri-Tip
Juicy, flavorful tri-tip beef roasted with a smoky, spicy dry rub, ideal for outdoor grilling enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and tender slices perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the hickory smoked salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, ground white pepper, and ground cayenne pepper in a bag or small dish.
- Fire up the barbecue and place the tri-tip, fat side down, on the grill when the coals are white-hot.
- Sprinkle the meat with some of the seasoning and poke with a sharp fork a few times to allow the seasoning to seep into the meat.
- Place the lid on the grill and wait 10 to 15 minutes before turning the meat over.
- Repeat the sprinkling and poking process on the other side.
- Wait 40 to 45 minutes for the beef to be ready.
- Cut away the fat and slice into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the seasoning mix sit for at least 30 minutes before applying it to the meat. If you can't find hickory smoked salt, regular salt with a dash of liquid smoke can work as a substitute. Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; aim for medium-rare at 135°F. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the roast.
Serving Suggestions
Barbecue tri-tip is best served with classic sides such as coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or baked beans. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or cornbread. It also makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches or tacos. Explore more American recipes to complement this dish, like a refreshing summer pasta salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tri-tip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meat and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can use it in a delicious Leftover Roast Beef Hash for a hearty breakfast.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Tri-Tip contains roughly 82 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good marinades for tri-tip?
While the seasoning mix in this recipe is fantastic, you can also marinate the tri-tip in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight. This adds an additional layer of flavor and tenderness to the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).