How to Grill Tri Tip Steak Strips Recipe and Tips

A Quick and Satisfying Steak Dinner 

This grilling method is time-efficient, perfect for a weekday dinner or a spontaneous weekend cookout. Despite the quick cook time, you’ll savor a richly textured and flavorful experience that feels anything but rushed.

What is a Tri Tip

A Tri Tip has a triangular shape and comes from the bottom sirloin. The grain on a tri tip runs in two different directions, so you need to be mindful of that when cutting and serving. Lastly, it is also known as a Santa Maria Steak because it was made popular in the Santa Maria area of California. 

Grilled Steak at Home on a Budget

Tri Tip Steak is known for its rich flavor and tender texture when grilled properly. A tri tip is a triangular cut of beef found in your favorite meat department or local butcher. A tri-tip roast can be cut against the grain into individual steaks. 

Best Way to Grill Tri-Tip Steak

Cutting our whole tri-tip into steaks makes for a quicker cook. My favorite way to cook these is to marinate them for 2-3 hours and then quickly grill over a high heat. This is the best way to infuse the steak with a lot flavor, get a nice crust and flavorful char on the outside, while sealing in a tender juicy inside. 

The cooking time will go quick, so make sure to keep an eye on them and remove them from the grill as soon as they are done. Over cooking will be a disaster.

A Flavorful Marinade

A savory marinade will make this flavorful cut come to life. 

• Vegetable oil or olive oil (I use avocado oil)
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Soy Sauce
• Worcestershire sauce 
• Brown Sugar
• Mustard Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Black Pepper

Optional heat elements: red pepper flakes, cayenne, hot sauce, or hot honey.

Good Dry Rub Options

If you don't have time to marinade the steak, pick a simple rub. Look for a good rub with coarse black pepper, kosher salt, garlic, and whatever additional spices tickle your fancy.

Pro Tips for Grilling Steak

1) Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the tri tip steak strips against the grain ensures each piece is tender and easy to chew. This technique breaks down the muscle fibers, making the meat feel more buttery in your mouth.

2) Preheat Your Grill Properly: A hot grill, ideally around 400-450°F, is essential for creating that perfect sear and locking in juices. Resist the temptation to crowd the grill, which lowers the temperature and causes steaming instead of charring.

3) Let the meat rest after grilling. Allowing the steak strips to rest for about 5-10 minutes after removing them from the grill lets the juices redistribute. 

4) Use a Meat Thermometer. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part if the steak to check for doneness. Aim for medium-rare between 130-135°F for the juiciest results, adjusting slightly based on personal preference.

5) Marinate for more flavor and to lock in moisture. Marinate the steak strips for 30 minutes up tp 4 hours before grilling. Marinades with acidic components like vinegar or citrus enhance flavor and tenderize the meat beautifully.

Follow These Steps For a Great Dinner

1. Preheat your grill to 400-425˚degrees F. Cooking at a higher temperature will get the best results.
2. Remove your steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the grill preheats.
3. Cook the steaks on the grill grates for 3-4 minutes per side. The steak should cook for 12-14 minutes total or until it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130˚F for a medium-rare steak.
4. When your steaks have reached the desired doneness, remove them to a cutting board and let them rest before slicing. Your best bet is resting for at least 10 minutes.

Saving and Reheating Leftovers

Store leftover steak strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently to preserve juiciness and tenderness.

The best way to reheat leftover steak is to heat a pan over medium heat with a little butter or olive oil. Add thin slices of steak to pan and stir quickly until the steak is heated through. 

Easy Sides for Strip Steaks

Since this is a quick cooking process, pick a fast and easy side dish to make your perfect meal. 

Grilled Asparagus- Lightly seasoned and charred asparagus spears offer a crisp, green balance to the hearty steak.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes- Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic provide a comforting and rich accompaniment.

Mexican Street Corn Salad- This tangy and spicy side with cotija cheese and chili powder adds a festive, bold flavor pairing.