Steak enthusiasts, rejoice! Tri - tip steak is a hidden gem in the world of beef, offering a perfect balance of tenderness and rich flavor. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore the art of grilling, these three ways to cook tri - tip steak will elevate your dinner game and make it a memorable meal for the whole family. In this article, we'll also share some of our best tri - tip steak recipes that are sure to become your new favorites.

1. Grilled Tri - Tip Steak

Grilling is perhaps the most popular way to cook tri - tip steak, and for good reason. The high heat of the grill sears the outside of the steak, locking in the juices and creating a delicious crust. Here's how you can achieve the perfect grilled tri - tip:

• Choose the Right Steak: Look for a well - marbled tri - tip steak with a bright red color. A good quality steak will have a better flavor and texture.
• Seasoning: Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite steak rub. You can also add a little garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
• Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. This will ensure that the steak sears quickly and evenly.
• Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 3 - 4 minutes per side for medium - rare. You can adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130 - 135°F for medium - rare, 140 - 145°F for medium, and 150 - 155°F for medium - well.
• Rest the Steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 - 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, making it more tender and flavorful.

2. Oven - Roasted Tri - Tip Steak

If you don't have access to a grill or prefer to cook indoors, oven - roasting is a great alternative. Here's how to roast a tri - tip steak in the oven:

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F.
• Season the Steak: As with grilling, season the steak with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
• Roast the Steak: Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with foil or a roasting pan. Roast the steak in the preheated oven for about 20 - 25 minutes for a 1 - 1.5 pound tri - tip. Again, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Broil for a Crust: For an extra crispy crust, turn on the broiler and broil the steak for 1 - 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Pan - Seared Tri - Tip Steak

Pan - searing is a quick and easy way to cook tri - tip steak, especially if you're short on time. Here's how to do it:

• Choose the Right Pan: Use a heavy - bottomed skillet, such as a cast - iron skillet. This will ensure even heating.
• Preheat the Pan: Heat the pan over medium - high heat until it's very hot. Add a little oil to the pan.
• Season and Sear the Steak: Season the steak and place it in the hot pan. Sear the steak for 2 - 3 minutes per side until it develops a nice crust.
• Finish Cooking in the Oven: Transfer the pan with the steak to a preheated 375°F oven and cook for about 8 - 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness.
• Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest before slicing.

Best Tri - Tip Steak Recipes

1. Tri - Tip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant, herbaceous sauce that pairs perfectly with tri - tip steak. To make the sauce, combine fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a blender. Blend until smooth. Serve the sauce over the sliced steak.

2. Tri - Tip Steak with Baked Potatoes and Green Beans
For a classic and hearty meal, serve your tri - tip steak with baked potatoes and green beans. Top the baked potatoes with butter, sour cream, and chives, and season the green beans with salt, pepper, and a little lemon juice.

3. Tri - Tip Steak Salad
Slice the cooked tri - tip steak and serve it over a bed of mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing and healthy meal.

In conclusion, tri - tip steak is a versatile and delicious cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways. With these tips and recipes, you'll be able to put a mouth - watering tri - tip steak on the menu tonight. So, head to the grocery store, pick up a tri - tip steak, and get cooking!