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There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle of a juicy steak on the grill, and my Ultimate Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak takes that experience to a whole new level. Imagine the rich aroma wafting through your backyard as the savory marinade—crafted with a perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness—infuses a succulent tri tip, transforming it into a flavor sensation.

As summer sun beckons barbecue gatherings, this dish becomes the star of your outdoor feast, delivering tenderness and taste that will impress both family and friends. But here’s the delightful twist: this marinade isn’t just reserved for tri tip; you can easily adapt it for other cuts of beef, making it a versatile gem in your culinary repertoire. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll have a go-to grilling delight that you’ll turn to time and time again!

Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak – Why This Recipe?

Flavor Explosion: The Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak features a marinade that blends savory soy sauce and aromatic garlic with a touch of sweetness, creating a flavor profile that’s irresistibly delicious.
Versatile Usage: Feel free to switch up your proteins—this marinade works wonders with various beef cuts, letting you experiment and keep meals exciting.
Simple Steps: With straightforward instructions, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality dish in no time, even if you’re new to grilling.
Crowd-Pleasing: This steak is perfect for gatherings, guaranteed to impress your guests while leaving minimal leftovers.
Perfectly Juicy: The long marination time ensures the steak is not only flavorful but extremely tender, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak Ingredients

Discover the magic behind the flavor!

For the Marinade

Low Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari – Offers a savory depth; opt for tamari if gluten-free.
Avocado Oil or Grape Seed Oil – Helps keep the meat moist; any neutral oil will work too.
Worcestershire Sauce – Elevates umami flavor; soy sauce can replace for a gluten-free choice.
Brown Sugar – Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
Sweet Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet and aromatic depth; feel free to substitute other onion types or shallots.
Garlic Cloves – Infuses a rich aroma; garlic powder is a suitable alternative.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing all flavors.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and character.
Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a mild heat; adjust per your spice preference.

For the Steak

Tri Tip Roast – The star of the dish; known for its juiciness and flavor. (Substitution: Try sirloin tip or bottom round for variety.)

How to Make Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak

Trim the Tri Tip: Start by removing excess fat from your tri tip roast, leaving a thin layer if you desire that extra juiciness and flavor.
Make the Marinade: In a sealed bag or container, combine the low sodium soy sauce, oil, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chopped onion, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Marinate: Add the tri tip to the marinade, ensuring it is well-covered. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Refrigerate for 15-18 hours and flip it once to ensure even flavor distribution.
Prepare the Grill: Bring the marinated tri tip to room temperature before grilling, which helps with even cooking. Preheat the grill to indirect heat, aiming for a temperature of around 350°F.
Grill the Tri Tip: Cook the tri tip for about 10 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with reserved marinade. Monitor to reach an internal temperature of 125°F before removing it from the grill. Expect the temperature to rise slightly while resting.
Rest and Slice: Let the steak rest for 10 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute. Then, slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve!

Optional: Enjoy your steak with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak

Marination Time: Longer is better: Aim for 15-18 hours in the marinade for the best flavor infusion and tenderness in your grilled marinated tri tip steak.
Preheat Properly: Don’t rush the grill: Ensure your grill reaches the desired temperature before placing the steak on it, as this helps achieve a perfect sear and juicy interior.
Temp Check: Get it right: Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 125°F before resting, for perfectly cooked steak without overcooking.
Slice Smart: Always slice against the grain: Identifying and cutting against the grain maximizes tenderness and makes your grilled marinated tri tip steak a joy to eat.
Reserve Wisely: Basting safely: If you plan to baste with reserved marinade, make sure it hasn’t touched the raw meat to prevent contamination.

Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak – Variations & Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own—there’s a world of flavor waiting to be explored!

Beef Alternatives: Swap tri tip for flank steak or sirloin for a different texture and taste while retaining the delicious marinade.
Sweetener Switch: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an aromatic twist that elevates each bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili powder or diced jalapeños for a bolder heat level that will excite your taste buds.
Citrus Zest: Mix in some fresh orange or lime juice for a zesty brightness that complements the richness of the beef.
Smoke Flavor: Use smoked salt instead of kosher salt for an additional layer of depth and a hint of smokiness.
Garlic Variation: Swap fresh garlic for roasted garlic to mellow the flavor, giving a sweet and buttery taste to the marinade.
Vegetable Marinade: Try the marinade on grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious and colorful veggie side!

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while maximizing flavor! You can prepare the marinade and even marinate the tri tip up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the marinade ingredients, add the tri tip, remove air, and refrigerate. For the best quality, it’s key to let the marinated steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat the grill and cook as directed, ensuring a tender, juicy steak that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh!

Storage Tips for Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure the steak is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your grilled marinated tri tip steak for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or vacuum-seal it to maintain quality.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. This will help restore its juicy texture while avoiding overcooking.

Enjoy Later: Don’t forget you can use the flavorful marinade for various cuts, allowing you to elevate another meal with the essence of your grilled marinated tri tip steak!

What to Serve with Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak?

Elevate your grilling experience by pairing this savory steak with delightful sides that complete your meal.

Grilled Vegetables: A mix of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus adds a fresh crunch and slight smokiness that beautifully complements the hearty steak.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These smooth, buttery potatoes create a comforting balance to the robust flavors of the tri tip, making each bite a warm hug.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the steak.
Roasted Potatoes: This crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside treat is perfect for soaking up any extra juices, enhancing every delicious bite of steak.
Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw add a refreshing contrast, balancing the savory notes from the marinated tri tip.
Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, its fruity notes complementing the umami flavors of the marinade, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and slightly charred, corn on the cob adds a fun, summery touch that pairs wonderfully with your grilled feast.
Fluffy Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf offers subtle flavor, allowing the tri tip steak to shine while providing a satisfying base for the meal.
Chocolate Pot de Crème: For a decadent finish, this rich dessert is the perfect sweet note to end your meal, making your grilling event even more memorable.

Grilled Marinated Tri Tip Steak Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best tri tip for grilling?
Absolutely! Look for a tri tip that has a bright red color and a good amount of marbling, which will ensure juiciness during grilling. Avoid cuts with dark spots or excess liquid in the packaging, as these could indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover tri tip steak?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s essential to let the steak cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation, which could make it soggy.

Can I freeze grilled marinated tri tip steak?
Yes, you can freeze your grilled marinated tri tip steak! For optimal quality, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or vacuum seal it to reduce air exposure. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my tri tip turns out tough?
The key to tenderness is cutting against the grain. If your tri tip ends up being tough, ensure you’re slicing in the opposite direction of the grain lines, as this method breaks down the muscle fibers. Additionally, try to marinate longer next time, ideally 15-18 hours, to enhance tenderness.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very! You can easily make this grilled marinated tri tip steak gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. Always check ingredient labels before using.

How can I tell when my tri tip is perfectly cooked?
To achieve the perfect doneness, use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare. After grilling, let the tri tip rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, improving its juiciness.