Traeger Tri-Tip Recipe: A Smoke Show You Won't Forget
Are you ready to elevate your grilling game? This Traeger tri-tip recipe is your ticket to unbelievably tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. Forget dry, tough tri-tip – this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering masterpiece every time. Perfect for a weekend BBQ, a special occasion, or just a Tuesday night treat, this smoky delight is sure to impress.
What Makes This Traeger Tri-Tip Recipe Special?
This isn't just any tri-tip recipe. We've perfected the process to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. Here's what sets it apart:
- Reverse Sear Perfection: We use a low and slow approach to ensure even cooking and maximum smoke infusion, followed by a quick sear for that perfect crust.
- Flavor Bomb Marinade: Our marinade is a symphony of savory and smoky flavors, penetrating the meat deeply for an explosion of taste.
- Traeger Expertise: Tailored for the Traeger smoker, this recipe unlocks the full potential of your grill, delivering results you'll crave.
- Easy-to-Follow Instructions: Even if you're a grilling novice, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3-4 lb Tri-Tip: The star of the show! Choose a well-marbled cut for optimal tenderness.
- Marinade:
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- Optional: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Marinate: Place the tri-tip in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it's fully coated. Marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
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Prepare the Traeger: Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (107°C). Use your favorite wood pellets – hickory, mesquite, or apple wood work particularly well with tri-tip.
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Smoke Low & Slow: Place the marinated tri-tip on the Traeger grill grates. Smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C). Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
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Sear to Perfection: Increase the Traeger temperature to 400-450°F (204-232°C). Sear the tri-tip for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice crust forms. This step adds a delicious char and enhances the smoky flavor.
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Rest and Slice: Remove the tri-tip from the Traeger and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in an incredibly tender and juicy tri-tip.
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Slice Against the Grain: Slice the tri-tip thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve your delicious Traeger tri-tip with your favorite sides – we recommend a simple salad, grilled vegetables, or some creamy mashed potatoes.
Tips for Tri-Tip Triumph:
- Don't Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach the desired internal temperature. Overcooked tri-tip will be tough and dry.
- Experiment with Wood: Different wood pellets impart different flavors. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
- Rest is Key: Allowing the tri-tip to rest is crucial for retaining its juices and achieving optimal tenderness.
This Traeger tri-tip recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your grilling repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results and the compliments that will surely follow! Happy smoking!
