Grilling a juicy, flavorful top sirloin steak requires selecting the right cut of meat, proper seasoning and marinating, and using the correct cooking techniques. When done right, top sirloin can be just as tender, tasty, and satisfying as more expensive cuts of beef. This guide will teach you everything you need to know to make mouthwatering BBQ top sirloin steaks at home.
Selecting and Preparing Top Sirloin for the BBQ
Choosing the right cut of top sirloin is essential for grilling success. Here’s what to look for:
Choose USDA Choice or Prime grades – This indicates more marbling in the meat, which equals more flavor and tenderness after cooking. Avoid low-quality Select grades.
Get a thicker cut – 1.5 inches is ideal. Thinner steaks will overcook too quickly on the grill.
Pick bone-in steaks – The bone adds extra flavor during cooking. Plan for 10-12 oz per person.
Trim off excess fat – Some external fat is good, but too much can cause flare-ups on the grill.
Once you have the right steaks, proper seasoning and marinating makes all the difference:
- Salt generously – Kosher or sea salt, applied at least 40 minutes before grilling, enhances flavor.
- Rub with spices – Chile powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, etc.
- Marinate for 1-24 hours – Soak steaks in an acidic marinade to tenderize. Balsamic, wine, citrus, yogurt, soy sauce all work.
- Pat steaks dry – This helps get a nice sear on the grill.
- Bring to room temp – Cold steak won’t cook evenly. Let it sit out for 30-40 minutes pre-grilling.
Setting Up the BBQ Grill for Top Sirloin
The right grilling setup ensures your top sirloin steaks cook perfectly:
Organize your coals – Banking coals to one side of a charcoal grill makes it easier to control temperature.
** Preheat thoroughly** – Let coals fully ignite and glow red before grilling. This takes 20-30 minutes.
Clean the grates – Scrape off debris and oil the grates so meat won’t stick.
** 2 temperature zones** – Sear over direct high heat first, then move to indirect lower heat to finish cooking.
Aim for 450-550°F – The initial sear requires high heat. Gauge temp by holding hand 5 inches over grates for 5 seconds max.
Have tongs and spatula ready – Useful for flipping steaks without puncturing them.
Preheat platter – Place serving dish in oven at 175°F or under broiler to keep steak hot off grill.
Grilling Techniques for Perfect Top Sirloin
Grilling top sirloin steak requires a combination of techniques for best results:
1. Sear the Steaks
- Place steaks over direct high heat and sear 2-4 minutes per side. This caramelizes the outside.
- Resist moving steaks often so a nice crust can form.
- Rotate 90 degrees partway through searing to get crisscross grill marks.
2. Finish Cooking Over Lower Heat
- Move steaks to indirect heat once browned. Close grill lid if possible.
- Cook until desired doneness – see times and temps below.
- Flip steaks once halfway through. Spread out if flare-ups occur.
3. Check for Doneness
- Use instant-read thermometer, poke test, or nick test.
- Rare = 120-125°F, medium rare = 130-135°F, medium = 140-145°F.
- Temp will rise 5°F after removing from grill.
4. Let Steaks Rest
- Never slice into steak right off grill! Juices will leak out.
- Allow at least 5 minutes rest time, loosely tented in foil.
- This lets juices redistribute evenly throughout meat.
Top Sirloin Steak Grilling Times and Temps
Target these cook times for varying degrees of doneness:
| Thickness | Rare | Med Rare | Medium | Med Well | Well Done |
|-|-|-|-|-|-|
| 1 inch | 4-6 mins | 6-8 mins | 8-10 mins | 10-12 mins | 12-15 mins |
| 1.5 inches | 8-10 mins | 10-12 mins | 12-15 mins | 15-18 mins | 18-20 mins |
| 2 inches | 10-14 mins | 14-18 mins | 18-22 mins | 22-25 mins | 25-30 mins|
- Times are for after searing both sides initially over direct heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness – see temps above.
- Remove from grill when steak is 5°F below target temp.
Serving Delicious BBQ Top Sirloin Steaks
To serve your grilled top sirloin steaks for maximum enjoyment:
- Let meat rest first – never slice right after grilling.
- Cut across the grain into thin slices – this improves tenderness.
- Pair with compound butter, chimichurri sauce, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Match with hearty sides like baked potatoes, roasted veggies, or grilled corn.
- Top sirloin also works well sliced for steak sandwiches the next day.
- Cook any leftovers tomedium or beyond when reheating for food safety.
Common Top Sirloin Grilling Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to mess up grilling top sirloin steak. Watch out for these common pitfalls:
- Not salting steak early – Season ASAP before grilling for best flavor.
- Grilling at too low a temp – You need very high heat for an effective sear.
- Cutting into steak to check doneness – Use a thermometer or nick test instead.
- Moving steak around too much – Let it cook undisturbed to get a good crust.
- Serving too rare for food safety – Cook to at least 145°F internal temperature.
- Letting steak soak in marinade too long – 1-2 hours max or texture suffers.
- Overcooking from flare-ups – Move to a cooler part of grill if needed.
- Failing to rest steak before slicing – Always let it sit at least 5 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Top Sirloin
Still have questions about grilling up the perfect top sirloin steak? These FAQs have you covered:
Is top sirloin a good steak for grilling?
Yes, top sirloin has great beefy flavor and performs well with high, dry grill heat. Go for a 1-1.5 inch cut.
What is the difference between top sirloin and sirloin steak?
Top sirloin comes from the hip/rump area and is more affordable. Regular sirloin steaks are cut closer to the tenderloin.
Should top sirloin steak be marinated?
Marinating is highly recommended to increase tenderness and infuse extra flavor. Go for at least 1-2 hours.
What is the best sauce for grilled top sirloin steak?
Classic steak sauces like chimichurri, béarnaise, au poivre, or even just some compound butter work wonderfully.
Is top sirloin steak tough?
It can become tough and chewy if overcooked. Use proper grilling technique and cut across the grain when serving to keep it tender.
Can you grill frozen top sirloin steak?
Not recommended. Always thaw in the fridge 1-2 days ahead and grill just before eating for safety and quality.
What sides go with grilled top sirloin steak?
Great pairings include roasted or grilled veggies, potatoes, rice or pasta salad, bread for dipping, and a crisp green salad.
Conclusion
Mastering how to BBQ top sirloin steak requires selecting quality cuts, proper seasoning and marinating, searing over high heat, finishing over lower indirect heat, and resting before slicing. With the right techniques, tools, and cooking temps, you can achieve tender and juicy grilled top sirloin worthy of any summertime cookout or dinner with friends. Just avoid common mistakes like overcooking and be sure to serve with flavorful sauces and sides. In no time, you’ll be an expert in grilling up this affordable, flavorful cut of beef.