Picture this: a perfectly smoked tri-tip, glistening with that stunning crust and tender inside, filling your backyard with the scent of hickory. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration, a gathering of family and friends around the grill, and a true testament to summer cookouts.
This Traeger Tri Tip Recipe stands out because of its mouthwatering flavor and juicy texture. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking method, you’ll find it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoky, juicy, and oh-so-tender, this tri-tip is a standout choice for any occasion.
- Simple preparation that packs incredible flavor.
- Versatile: great for meals, sandwiches, or tacos.
- Cooking on a Traeger infuses a rich, smoky taste.
- Feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
My Experience Making This Recipe
I’ll never forget the first time I made this tri-tip on my Traeger. As I watched that smokey goodness fill the air, I couldn’t help but admire how easy it was to create something so impressive.
Serving it to friends and family was even better — seeing their faces light up when they took that first bite is the best compliment a cook can receive. They kept asking for seconds, and I proudly obliged!
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Traeger Tri Tip
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Course: Main
- Cuisine: American
- Calories per Serving: 350
Equipment You Will Need
- Traeger smoker
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients for Traeger Tri Tip
- 2-3 pounds tri-tip roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Tri-tip roast: This cut is flavorful and tender; a flank steak can be a good substitute.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture; avocado oil can work if preferred.
- Kosher salt: Enhances flavors; sea salt can be used instead.
- Smoked paprika: Provides a delightful smoky taste; sweet paprika is a milder alternative.
How to Make Traeger Tri Tip
Step 1: Prepare the Tri Tip
Remove the tri-tip from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly throughout.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This blend will give your meat that flavorful crust.
Step 3: Oil the Meat
Rub the olive oil all over the tri-tip. This not only adds flavor but also helps the spice rub adhere better.
Step 4: Apply the Spice Rub
Generously coat the tri-tip with your spice mixture, pressing it into the meat. Each bite should burst with flavor!
Step 5: Preheat the Traeger
Set your Traeger to 225°F and allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes. This ensures that your tri-tip will begin cooking in a perfect environment.
Step 6: Smoke the Tri Tip
Place the tri-tip directly on the smoker grate, fat side up. Smoking it at this low temperature allows the flavors to develop slowly.
Step 7: Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; aim for 130°F for medium-rare. This takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 8: Rest Before Slicing
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the tri-tip and wrap it in aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes — this ensures all those delicious juices redistribute.
Pro Tip: Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness — trust me, this makes a world of difference!
Tips for the Best Traeger Tri Tip
- Use high-quality meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different woods in your Traeger for unique smoky flavors.
- Let the meat rest enough; patience pays off with tenderness.
- Baste with your favorite marinade during cooking for extra zest.
- Try serving with sauce on the side for a flavor boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the spice rub — bland meat is just sad.
- Not preheating the smoker — this affects cooking time and taste.
- Cutting too soon — it won’t taste as good if the juices run out.
- Overcooking — use a thermometer to nail that perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this tri-tip with fresh sides for a complete meal.
- Grilled vegetables
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Garlic bread
Variations to Try
- Marinade overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Add a chili rub for some heat.
- Serve with chimichurri for a fresh twist.
- Try a bourbon glaze for a sweet and smoky balance.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-free: No dairy products are used here either.
- Low-carb/keto: Great option if you’re watching carbs.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Let the meat cool before sealing.
- Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.
Freezer
For longer storage, freeze the tri-tip. It can last up to 3 months.
- Wrap in foil and place in a freezer bag.
- Label with the date and contents.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 250°F until warmed through. This helps keep it juicy.
- Cover with foil to avoid drying out.
- Microwave in small intervals if in a hurry, but watch for drying.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, flank steak or sirloin can be good substitutes if tri-tip is unavailable.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the meat a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
What if I don’t have a Traeger?
You can achieve similar results using a charcoal grill or a regular smoker.
How do I know when the tri-tip is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
You’re just a few simple steps away from creating a delicious Traeger tri-tip that will impress everyone at your next gathering. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a staple on your grill.
So, fire up your Traeger and enjoy! For more grilling inspiration, check out my tri-tip marinade recipe or explore my smoked tri-tip recipe.
Traeger Tri Tip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the tri-tip from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create the spice rub.
- Rub the olive oil all over the tri-tip to help the spice rub adhere and add moisture.
- Generously coat the tri-tip with the spice rub, pressing it firmly into the meat.
- Preheat your Traeger smoker to 225°F and allow it to heat for 15 minutes.
- Place the tri-tip on the smoker grate, fat side up, and smoke at 225°F for approximately 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F for medium-rare doneness.
- Remove the tri-tip from the smoker, wrap it in aluminum foil, and rest for 15 minutes before slicing.