If you’re craving a harmony of bold flavors and tender, juicy beef, this Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. The magic lies in a custom spice blend that infuses the meat with smoky paprika, fragrant herbs, and just the right touch of heat. Roasting the tri tip to perfection locks in those rich flavors and gives you a beautiful crust that’s both crisp and savory. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that scream comfort and celebration all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe plays an essential role in building a robust flavor that’s simply unforgettable. From the marbled tri tip that provides juicy tenderness to the garlic and spices giving it that unmistakable punch, these components come together beautifully with minimal fuss.
- 2 pounds tri tip roast: Look for a well-marbled cut for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to create a beautiful crust while roasting.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for the best taste.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Fresh or dried thyme can provide a fragrant touch.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adjust to taste for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
How to Make Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nicely heated and ready to give your tri tip a hot, quick roast that locks in moisture. This high temp also helps develop that irresistible crust on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tri Tip
Patting the tri tip dry with paper towels is a crucial step. Removing excess moisture helps the olive oil and spices stick perfectly, encouraging a beautifully seared exterior when you hit the skillet.
Step 3: Mix the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until it forms a flavorful paste that’s ready to cling to every inch of your roast.
Step 4: Apply the Rub
Slather this aromatic mixture all over your tri tip. Don’t be shy—make sure to evenly coat every surface. This step infuses the meat with a burst of complex flavor that will shine after roasting.
Step 5: Sear the Roast
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tri tip for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This caramelizes the outer layer, creating a rich, nutty crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside.
Step 6: Roast in the Oven
Transfer your skillet with the seared tri tip into the preheated oven. Roast for 25 to 35 minutes, watching for an internal temperature that reaches your preferred doneness. This slow finish ensures a juicy, tender roast with plenty of flavor depth.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, cover the tri tip loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent and tender.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice the tri tip against the grain into thin, elegant slices. Cutting against the grain breaks down muscle fibers, making the texture smoother and easier to enjoy.
How to Serve Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a lovely pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness of the roast. Sometimes, a drizzle of chimichurri or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This roasted tri tip pairs wonderfully with crispy roasted potatoes, a refreshing green salad, or classic grilled vegetables. Creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa also soak up the flavorful drippings perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sliced tri tip as the star of a steak salad or pile it onto crusty bread with your favorite fixings for a gourmet sandwich. It also makes an elegant centerpiece on a charcuterie board, nestled among cheeses and olives.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover roasted tri tip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to keep that juicy texture and bold flavor intact.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the roast tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing much of its deliciousness.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm slices in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or cover the meat with foil and heat in the oven at a low temperature. This keeps the tri tip moist and tender instead of drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While this spice rub and cooking method shine best with a tri tip roast owing to its unique shape and fat content, you can try similar cuts like sirloin or flank steak, though cooking times and results will vary slightly.
How do I know when the tri tip is perfectly cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is your best bet—aim for about 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. Remember to let the roast rest; the temperature will rise slightly during that time.
Is it okay to skip the cayenne pepper?
Absolutely! The cayenne is optional and designed to add a gentle kick. If you prefer a milder roast, omit it without compromising the overall flavor balance.
Can I prepare the rub ahead of time?
Yes, the spice paste can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld more deeply and makes prep on cooking day quicker and easier.
What side dishes complement this dish best?
Root vegetables roasted in olive oil, fresh green beans, or buttery mashed potatoes are classic pairings that highlight and balance the flavors of the roasted tri tip beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe is truly a showstopper that combines rustic charm with bold, layered flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it transforms any meal into a special occasion. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe brings warmth, satisfaction, and genuine joy to your table.
Print
Roasted Tri Tip with Garlic, Spices, and Herb Rub Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Roasted Tri Tip recipe delivers a tender, flavorful beef roast with a beautiful crust thanks to a robust blend of spices and garlic. The tri tip is seared on the stovetop before roasting in the oven to lock in juices and create a perfectly cooked, savory main dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Beef
- 2 pounds tri tip roast (Look for a well-marbled cut for optimal flavor and tenderness.)
Spice Rub
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (This helps to create a beautiful crust while roasting.)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the beef.)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground for the best taste.)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (Offers an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef.)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (Enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (Fresh or dried thyme can provide a fragrant touch.)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Optional; adjust to taste for those who enjoy a bit of heat.)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the tri tip after searing.
- Prepare the meat: Pat the tri tip dry with paper towels to ensure the spice rub adheres well and to help achieve a good sear.
- Make the spice paste: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until a consistent paste forms.
- Rub the tri tip: Evenly coat the tri tip roast with the prepared spice paste, making sure every surface is covered for maximum flavor.
- Sear the meat: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tri tip on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until it develops a rich brown crust.
- Roast in the oven: Transfer the skillet with the tri tip to the preheated oven. Roast for 25 to 35 minutes, checking periodically for desired internal temperature (aim for 130-135°F for medium rare).
- Rest the meat: Remove the tri tip from the oven and loosely cover with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice and serve: Slice the tri tip thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness, then serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Allow the tri tip to come to room temperature before cooking for more even roasting.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130-135°F for medium rare, 140°F for medium.
- Letting the meat rest after roasting is crucial for juicy slices.
- The cayenne pepper is optional; omit or adjust based on your preferred spice level.
- For added flavor, marinate the tri tip with the spice rub for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
