A tri tip sandwich is a delicious and hearty meal featuring tender, juicy slices of tri tip beef served in a sandwich. Tri tip, a flavorful cut of beef from the bottom of the sirloin, is roasted or grilled to perfection, then sliced thinly and piled onto a soft, fresh bun. This savory sandwich is often paired with a variety of condiments, cheeses, and vegetables to enhance its flavor. Perfect for any casual gathering, barbecue, or quick meal, a tri tip sandwich delivers rich, meaty goodness that satisfies every craving.
Quick Facts
| Course | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Calories | 600 per serving |
Equipment Needed
To make the perfect tri tip sandwich, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Grill or Oven: To cook the tri tip to perfection.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your tri tip reaches the desired doneness.
- Knife: For slicing the cooked tri tip into thin, tender slices.
- Cutting Board: To safely slice and prepare the meat.
- Baking Sheet: If using the oven to roast the tri tip.
- Tongs: For handling the meat during grilling or roasting.
- Sandwich Buns: Soft, sturdy buns are essential for holding all the tasty fillings.
Ingredient
For the Tri Tip:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs tri tip roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for some heat)
For the Sandwich:
- 4 sandwich buns (preferably soft, like brioche)
- 1 cup of sautéed onions (optional)
- 1 cup of cheese (cheddar, provolone, or your preferred type)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce or your favorite sauce
- Fresh greens (like arugula or lettuce)
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Tri Tip: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Rub the tri tip with olive oil, then season it with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, salt, and chili powder. Massage the seasonings into the meat for even coverage.
- Cook the Tri Tip:
- On the Grill: Grill the tri tip over medium-high heat for about 25-30 minutes, flipping every 7-10 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (for medium-rare). Add more time if you prefer it more cooked.
- In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Roast the tri tip on a baking sheet for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Rest the Meat: After cooking, let the tri tip rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Slice the tri tip against the grain into thin strips. Cut the buns in half and toast them lightly on the grill or in a toaster for extra texture. Place a layer of greens, followed by a generous portion of tri tip slices, and top with cheese, sautéed onions, and your favorite sauce. Add pickles if desired.
- Serve: Close the sandwich and enjoy! Serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for the perfect meal.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Vitamin A | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 2% |
| Calcium | 8% |
| Iron | 20% |
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Searing the Tri Tip: To get a nice crust on the tri tip, make sure the grill or oven is preheated properly. Searing the meat for the first few minutes locks in the juices and flavor.
- Resting the Meat: Let the tri tip rest after cooking. This helps the meat stay tender and juicy.
- Choosing the Right Bun: A soft, sturdy bun works best, as it holds up well against the juices from the tri tip and sauce without falling apart.
- Try Different Sauces: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces. Barbecue sauce adds a smoky flavor, but aioli, mustard, or even a spicy salsa can take this sandwich to the next level.
- Slicing Against the Grain: For the most tender slices, always slice the tri tip against the grain, which will result in a much softer texture in each bite.
Conclusion
A tri tip sandwich is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy one of the juiciest cuts of beef. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of tender tri tip, melted cheese, and the perfect sauce creates a mouthwatering bite with every layer. Remember, the key to a perfect tri tip sandwich lies in the seasoning, cooking technique, and fresh ingredients. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to get creative with your toppings!
