When it comes to a satisfying, flavorful main course, Grilled Tri-Tip is a standout choice for meat lovers. This recipe presents a straightforward approach to preparing a tri-tip roast so you get a juicy, tender, and well-seasoned result every time.
Grilled Tri Tip
Tri-tip is a much-loved cut in the barbecue world for its bold beef flavor and tender texture when cooked right. This triangular roast comes from the bottom sirloin and is relatively lean, so a simple seasoning and careful grilling bring out excellent results: a nicely charred exterior with a moist, pink interior.
One of the reasons tri-tip is so practical is that a single roast easily feeds a family. It grills quickly compared to larger roasts, and it’s versatile—serve it straight from the grill, build sandwiches, or slice it into salads and bowls.
Leftovers are great for sandwiches, tacos, or tossed into pasta or salads. Slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Why you’ll love it
- Flavorful and juicy — A simple rub and open-flame or pellet-grill finish concentrate the meat’s natural flavor.
- Versatile — Serve as a main course, in sandwiches, or tossed into other dishes.
- Simple ingredients — Minimal pantry staples produce excellent results.
- Great for gatherings — One roast feeds multiple people and pairs well with many sides.
Get our easy Traeger recipes collection for more grilled favorites.
Recipe shopping list
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this grilled tri-tip. Quantities and step-by-step directions are found in the recipe card below.
- Tri-tip roast (3–6 pounds), trimmed if desired
- Smokey SPG or a simple salt, pepper, garlic rub (approximately 2–3 tablespoons)
How to make this recipe — overview
The overview below summarizes the process. Refer to the full instructions in the recipe card for exact temperatures, times, and tips.
- Preheat the grill or pellet smoker to a moderate temperature.
- Season the roast evenly with Smokey SPG or your preferred rub.
- Cook slowly until the internal temperature approaches your target.
- Finish with a higher heat or sear to develop a crust.
- Rest and slice the meat for at least 10 minutes and slice thinly against the grain.
Smoked tri-tip variations and tips
Recipe FAQ
Place cooled slices in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags.
Yes. Reheat gently in a low oven (250–300°F) or covered in a skillet with a splash of broth to preserve moisture. Avoid high heat to prevent drying.
You can season the roast and refrigerate it overnight to deepen the flavor. Bring it to near room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
Use your favorite steak rub, add a light marinade, or finish with compound butter after resting for additional flavor variations.
Serve this with…
- Grilled asparagus or seasonal vegetables
- Homemade Caesar salad — swap the chicken for sliced tri-tip
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
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Grilled Tri Tip with Smokey SPG
There is nothing easier than grilling a tri-tip roast, and the results are consistently delicious. Serve it sliced with your favorite sides or use it for sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 3 pound tri-tip roast
- 2 tablespoons Smokey SPG (or 2–3 tablespoons salt, pepper, garlic blend)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or pellet smoker to 250°F for low-and-slow cooking.
- Pat the tri-tip dry. Rub the entire roast evenly with Smokey SPG, covering all sides.
- Place the roast on the grill and cook at 250°F until the internal temperature reaches about 110–115°F (this can take roughly 30–40 minutes depending on size and grill).
- Increase the heat to 350°F–400°F (or move to a hotter zone) and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 125°F–130°F for medium-rare, or 135°F for medium.
- Remove the roast and let it rest tented with foil for 10 minutes so the juices redistribute.
- Slice thinly against the grain and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Yield: 4 • Calories: 542 • Total Fat: 26g • Saturated Fat: 10g • Unsaturated Fat: 14g • Cholesterol: 221mg • Sodium: 1054mg • Carbohydrates: 2g • Fiber: 1g • Sugar: 0.1g • Protein: 71g
