This Air Fryer Tri Tip is so amazing that we stopped everything to make another one and we wanted to tell you about it! It is a fantastic cut of meat that is air fried in just a few minutes. Best of all, it is hands off!
Air Fryers are not going away, so if you don’t have one, go get one now. These handy, dandy kitchen appliances are all the rage for very good reasons!
- The air circulation makes sure that there are no major hot spots and everything cooks evenly.
- It is simply hands off cooking, my favorite!
- It is lightning fast.
- Cleanup is a breeze.
- It’s super fun.
These are meant for busy people who want delicious homemade meals in a jiffy. We are so in love with our Air Fryer that it is now one of our favorite things to talk about when we get together with friends.
We don’t work for any Air Fryer company, but we just love them that much. I wish they were around when my son was younger and I was running around like a crazy lady trying to get it all done. Air Fryers would have been my life preserver!
What is Tri Tip Steak
A tri tip (also called a Santa Maria steak or Triangle Tip) is a triangular piece of meat that is found near the backside of the cow. It can range from 1.5 – 5lbs.
It is a cheap and lean portion of the sirloin, so it will not be as tender as a ribeye, but don’t let that deter you! The flavor is amazing! The one we cooked today was a small 1.5 pound cut that was perfect for the three of us.
⏲️ Cooking Time
Set the Air Fryer at 400 degrees and place the seasoned Tri Tip in the Air Fryer basket or on the tray. Cook for 5 – 7 minutes on each side (or even a little less if the piece of meat is small!) or until it reaches an internal temperature of:
- Medium Rare 130-135 degrees
- Medium 140 degrees
- Medium Well 155 degrees
- Well Done 165 degrees
The best options when cooking beef in the Air Fryer is to start with the shortest time and work up testing the temperature of the meat. I always suggest testing as everyone’s Air Fryer is slightly different and not everyone likes a medium rare piece of meat.
🍽️ Instructions
Allow the tri tip to sit on the counter for about 20 minutes prior to cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. The rub will also absorb better if you do this step.
Step One: Heat the Air Fryer for about 10 minutes at 400 degrees so it is piping hot.
Step Two: Create a rub for the tri tip. This one combines garlic powder and Trader Joe’s BBQ Rub. Pat the tri tip dry and then rub the entire roast with the rub you just made. Again, make your own rub or try ours.
Step Three: Place the tri tip in the Air Fryer for 5 – 7 minutes. Turn it over and set the time for another 5-7 minutes. Check the temperature so you don’t overcook it.
Step Four: Do you see the juice in the finished photo? That is accomplished by allowing the tri tip to rest for 10 minutes after you remove it from the Air Fryer. Don’t skip this step. Allowing the tri tip to rest is essential!
🍽️ More Air Fryer Recipes to Love
Don’t miss out on the other Air Fryer recipes we have created. They are becoming a hot passion of ours and we can’t wait for you to try them all!
Air Fryer Chicken Livers – This is so amazing if you are a chicken liver fan! We grew up eating them, so this is incredible to make in the Air Fryer. No grease splatters and yet they come out crunchy and tender at the same time.
Air Fryer Broccoli – This is one of my go-to side dishes every week. EVERY WEEK. It is fast, easy and I don’t need to think! Everyone loves it so why not?
Air Fryer Asparagus – This is a take on the old asparagus with parmesan recipe we all love! But we did it in the Air Fryer with excellent results.
Air Fryer Cornish Hen – This is going to be a monthly rotation from now on! This tender, sweet bird is neglected, yet so delish! Depending on how big your Air Fryer is, you may be able to sneak two in there to feed a family of four.
Air Fryer Ravioli – This is going to be my go-to recipe come football season! They are going to be gobbled up in no time flat when you put a tray of them out! Don’t skimp and make sure you try the homemade marinara sauce.
Air Fryer Tri Tip Roast
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb Tri Tip
- 2 tbsp Trader Joe's Coffee BBQ Rub you can use your own java rub as well
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- olive oil spray
Instructions
- Combine the Trader Joe's Rub with the garlic powder and stir together.
- Heat the Air Fryer at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes.
- Spray the tri tip with olive oil spray and coat the tri tip with dry rub, making sure to cover both sides.
- Add the tri tip to the air fryer. Note that I added a couple pieces of bread to the drip tray to catch any drippings. I find that it stops and unwanted smoking and makes cleanup a lot easier.
- Cook the tri tip for 5-7 minutes on each side. Each air fryer is different, so check it early and often to avoid overcooking.
- Remove the tri tip when you reach the desired temperature and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Medium Rare 130-135 degrees
- Medium 140 degrees
- Medium Well 155 degrees
- Well Done 165 degrees
Nutrition
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