Grilling tri tip on a gas grill can yield incredibly flavorful, tender meat when cooked properly. The ideal cooking time will depend on the thickness of the tri tip roast, the heat of the grill, and your desired level of doneness. Follow these tips for perfect tri tip every time using a gas grill.
Selecting and Preparing the Tri Tip
Choose a 11⁄2 to 2 pound tri tip roast. This size will cook evenly and give you enough for 4-6 portions. Look for a roast that is evenly shaped, with nice marbling throughout for tenderness and flavor.
Trim off any excess fat or silver skin. This will prevent flare-ups on the grill. Leave a thin layer of fat for moisture.
Apply a dry rub. Coat the meat lightly on all sides with a dry rub. Use spices like garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub it in so the seasoning adheres.
Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly later. Pat dry with paper towels before grilling.
Determining Grill Time
The grill time will range from 30-60 minutes usually. This depends on the thickness of your roast and how rare or well-done you prefer your meat.
Use a meat thermometer to test for your desired doneness, not just cook times. This is the best way to ensure perfection.
- Rare: 125°F
- Medium rare: 135°F
- Medium: 145°F
- Medium well: 155°F
- Well done: 165°F
For a 11⁄2 pound roast, expect around:
- Rare: 30-35 minutes
- Medium rare: 35-40 minutes
- Medium: 40-50 minutes
- Medium well: 50-55 minutes
- Well done: 55-60 minutes
For a 2 pound roast, expect around:
- Rare: 40-45 minutes
- Medium rare: 45-50 minutes
- Medium: 55-60 minutes
- Medium well: 60-65 minutes
- Well done: 65-75 minutes
Cooking times will vary based on thickness. Use a meat thermometer for the best results!
Grilling Tips
Preheat your gas grill on high for 15 minutes. Use all burners to heat the entire grill surface. Brush the grates clean.
Sear the meat before cooking it fully. Sear the tri tip roast on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to get a nice crust.
Turn the heat to medium and finish cooking. Adjust all burners to medium heat. Flip the meat every 5 minutes or so for even cooking.
Move the roast if flare-ups occur. Carefully move the meat to a cooler area of the grill until flames die down.
Let the meat rest 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Slice thinly across the grain. This gives you the most tender texture. Serve warm!
FAQs About Grilling Tri Tip
What is tri tip?
Tri tip is a small triangular cut of beef from the bottom sirloin. It’s very flavorful and cooks quickly, making it ideal for grilling.
Where is tri tip located on the cow?
Tri tip comes from the bottom sirloin butt, near the hind leg of the cow. It’s a small muscle, so each roast is only 1-2 pounds.
Is tri tip steak the same as tri tip roast?
They are the same cut of meat. Tri tip steak is simply sliced portions of a whole tri tip roast.
Can you grill frozen tri tip?
It’s best to thaw tri tip fully before grilling for the most even cooking. If using frozen, increase cooking times by about 50%.
Should you marinate tri tip?
Marinating is optional, but recommended, as it adds extra flavor. Marinate for 2-12 hours in the fridge in a zesty blend of oil, spices, herbs, and acid.
What are the best rubs for tri tip?
Classic BBQ rubs work well, along with spicy Southwest blends or herb infused Mediterranean rubs. Go with your favorite flavors.
What BBQ sauce goes with tri tip?
The meat’s flavor takes well to a range of sauces. Try tangy barbecue, chimichurri, peppery steak sauce, or a savory red wine reduction after cooking.
Perfectly Grilled Tri Tip is Hard to Beat
Grilling tri tip on a gas grill using the tips above will reward you with incredibly tender, grill-kissed meat full of big, bold flavors. Paying attention to the thickness, using an accurate meat thermometer, and allowing the roast to rest before slicing are keys to success. In about an hour, you can enjoy amazing tri tip hot off the grill! Experiment with different rubs and sauces to find your favorite combination. This cut was practically designed for the grill, so enjoy it often during grilling season.