When it comes to BBQ, few cuts of meat can rival the tender and flavorful smoky goodness of a well-smoked tri-tip. This versatile cut of beef is perfect for slow-cooking over low heat, allowing the rich flavors of your chosen seasonings and sauces to meld together in harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out on your BBQ journey, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering smoked tri tip recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From classic combinations like garlic and herb rubs to spicy chipotle twists and sweet bourbon glazes, these recipes showcase the incredible range of flavors you can achieve with a smoky tri tip. So grab your apron, fire up your smoker, and get ready to take your BBQ game to the next level!
Classic Smoked Tri Tip with Garlic Herb Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouth-watering classic smoked tri tip recipe, infused with a savory garlic herb rub. Perfect for a summer gathering or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup garlic herb rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak and/or mesquite work well)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Garlic Herb Rub:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Mix garlic herb rub ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Season tri-tip with the rub, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
4. Place tri-tip in smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
5. Wrap tri-tip in foil and add wood chips. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4.5-5 hours
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Tri Tip
Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Chipotle Smoked Tri Tip recipe! This tender and juicy cut of beef is infused with the deep, smoky flavors of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri-tip roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Red Wine Marinade
Elevate your barbecue game with this tender and flavorful smoked tri tip recipe, perfectly seasoned with a rich red wine marinade. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
2. Add the tri-tip to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C). Remove tri-tip from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Place tri-tip in the smoker, fat side up. Close lid and smoke for 2-1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
BBQ Smoked Tri Tip with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your barbecue game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the tender, flavorful tri tip cut with a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef tri tip roast
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or hickory work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark)
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the tri tip with brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.
4. Meanwhile, mix the bourbon whiskey and honey to create the glaze.
5. Brush the glaze over the tri tip during the last 15 minutes of smoking.
6. Let the tri tip rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering combination of tender smoked tri tip and tangy chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type, such as post oak or mesquite)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season tri tip with salt and pepper.
3. Place wood chips in the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Smoke tri tip for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar in a bowl.
6. Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve smoked tri tip with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Honey Garlic Smoked Tri Tip
A sweet and savory twist on traditional smoked tri tip, this recipe combines the rich flavor of honey with the boldness of garlic and the tender texture of slow-cooked beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of wood for smoking)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri-tip roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Let the tri-tip rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Coffee Rub
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked tri tip with the deep, bold notes of coffee, creating a truly unique and mouth-watering experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground coffee beans, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the tri tip roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Rosemary and Thyme
Take your barbecue game to the next level with this simple recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked tri tip with the aromatic goodness of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri tip
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood, such as post oak or mesquite)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt and brown sugar.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, add the chopped rosemary and thyme to the smoker.
7. Remove the tri tip from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Jalapeño Lime Smoked Tri Tip
Elevate your BBQ game with this bold and tangy smoked tri tip recipe, featuring the spicy kick of jalapeños and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of smoking wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri tip roast.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 120°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, add sliced jalapeños and lime juice to the meat.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouthwatering smoked tri tip, perfectly balanced by a tangy balsamic glaze. This recipe yields tender, flavorful meat with a rich, sweet, and sour flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef tri-tip roast
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or mesquite work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri tip roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
5. While the meat is smoking, prepare the balsamic glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tbsp honey until smooth.
6. Once the tri tip is cooked, brush with the balsamic glaze during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Mustard and Brown Sugar Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouth-watering Smoked Tri Tip recipe, featuring a tangy and sweet mustard and brown sugar rub. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend grill-out.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri tip roast
– 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Wrap the tri tip in foil and rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Asian Soy Marinade
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering smoked tri tip recipe infused with the bold flavors of an Asian-inspired soy marinade. Perfect for a summer cookout or special occasion, this tender and juicy cut is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the tri-tip to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
4. Remove tri-tip from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place in smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Cajun Spice Blend
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring tender tri tip smothered in a bold Cajun spice blend. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course or as a show-stopping centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef tri tip
– 1/4 cup Cajun Spice Blend (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun Spice Blend, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri tip, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
7. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Teriyaki Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked tri tip with the sweet and savory notes of a homemade teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or backyard barbecue, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri tip
– 1 cup teriyaki glaze (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Teriyaki Glaze:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season tri tip with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke tri tip for 4-5 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Brush teriyaki glaze on the tri tip during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (plus additional time for teriyaki glaze application)
Smoked Tri Tip with Smoked Paprika and Cumin
Smoked Tri Tip with Smoked Paprika and Cumin: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Cut of Beef!
This recipe takes the classic tri tip to the next level by adding a depth of flavor from smoked paprika and cumin, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef tri tip
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri tip, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tri tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Maple Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your BBQ game with this tender and flavorful smoked tri tip, smothered in a rich maple bourbon glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri tip
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or mesquite)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season tri tip with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke tri tip for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, mix maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and salt in a small saucepan.
5. Bring glaze to a simmer over medium heat; cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
6. Brush glaze onto tri tip during last 30 minutes of smoking.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (including resting time)
Smoked Tri Tip with Garlic Butter Baste
Elevate your BBQ game with this tender and flavorful Smoked Tri Tip recipe, perfectly seasoned with a garlic butter baste. This mouthwatering dish is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1/2 cup garlic butter baste (see below for ingredients)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Baste:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto the tri-tip roast.
4. Place the tri-tip in the smoker and close the lid.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the garlic butter baste every 15 minutes.
7. Once cooked, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Tri Tip with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this unique recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked tri tip with the sweet and tangy zing of pineapple salsa. Perfect for a summer gathering or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Smoked Tri Tip:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip roast
– 1 cup wood chips (preferably post oak or mesquite)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the tri tip roast with brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke the tri tip for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.
4. While the tri tip is smoking, combine pineapple, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
5. Once the tri tip is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve with pineapple salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with these 18 flavorful smoked tri tip recipes! From classic combinations like garlic herb rub and red wine marinade, to spicy chipotle and bourbon-glazed options, there’s something for every taste. Add some international flair with Asian soy marinade or Cajun spice blend, or go sweet with honey garlic and maple bourbon glaze. With these mouth-watering recipes, you’ll be the king (or queen) of the BBQ pit. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s no excuse not to give one of these a try!
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