If you’re planning to cook tri tip on your propane grill, you may be wondering how long it’s going to take. Tri tip is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. Cooking it on a propane grill is a convenient and efficient way to achieve juicy and delicious results.
The cooking time for tri tip on a propane grill can vary depending on several factors, such as the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. On average, it takes about 20-30 minutes per pound to cook tri tip on a propane grill. However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches the desired level of doneness.
For medium-rare tri tip, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). For medium, it should be around 145°F (63°C). Keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook a few degrees more after it’s removed from the grill, so it’s best to take it off the heat a few degrees below the desired temperature.
Before grilling tri tip on your propane grill, it’s recommended to marinate the meat for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. This will help to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. You can use your favorite marinade or a simple combination of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Once the tri tip is marinated, preheat your propane grill to medium-high heat. Place the meat on the grill and cook it for the calculated time, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for the desired level of doneness. Once the meat is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked tri tip on your propane grill. So fire up your grill and enjoy this delicious cut of beef!
How Long to Cook Tri Tip on Propane Grill
Tri tip is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. Cooking tri tip on a propane grill is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this delicious meat. However, it is important to cook tri tip for the right amount of time to ensure it is cooked to perfection.
Preparing the Tri Tip
Before cooking the tri tip, it is important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat from the meat, as this can cause flare-ups on the grill. Then, season the tri tip with your choice of dry rub or marinade. Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Grilling the Tri Tip
Preheat your propane grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Place the tri tip on the grill and sear each side for 2-3 minutes to lock in the juices. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes per pound. This will result in a medium-rare tri tip, which is the recommended doneness for this cut of meat.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tri tip. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read around 135°F (57°C). If you prefer your meat more well-done, you can continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium or 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
Once the tri tip reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
Slice the tri tip against the grain into thin slices and serve. Tri tip is delicious on its own or served in sandwiches or tacos. Enjoy!
Preparation
Before grilling the tri tip on a propane grill, it is important to properly prepare the meat and the grill to ensure a delicious and tender result.
1. Start by selecting a high-quality tri tip roast from your local butcher or grocery store. Look for a well-marbled piece of meat with good thickness.
2. Remove the tri tip from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and promotes better searing.
3. Season the tri tip generously with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This can be a simple mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or you can experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
4. Let the tri tip marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste.
5. While the tri tip is marinating, preheat your propane grill to medium-high heat. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your grill.
6. Once the grill is hot, clean the grates with a grill brush to remove any residue from previous use. This helps to prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
7. Take the tri tip out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. This helps to ensure more even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out.
8. Place the tri tip on the preheated grill and close the lid. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
9. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C), and for medium-well, aim for 155°F (68°C).
10. Once the tri tip reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and flavorful result.
11. Slice the tri tip against the grain into thin slices and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Seasoning and Marinating
Before cooking your tri tip on a propane grill, it’s important to season and marinate the meat to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
1. Seasoning:
Start by generously seasoning the tri tip with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the meat. You can also add other spices and herbs according to your taste preferences. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and rosemary.
2. Marinating:
If you want to further enhance the flavor and tenderness of the tri tip, you can marinate it before grilling. Here’s how:
- Prepare a marinade by combining your choice of ingredients. This can include a mixture of oil, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and various spices.
- Place the tri tip in a sealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that the meat is fully coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
- Remember to occasionally flip the tri tip or gently massage the marinade into the meat to ensure even distribution.
After you have seasoned and marinated the tri tip, it’s ready to be cooked on a propane grill. You can follow the grilling instructions for the desired level of doneness.
Preheating the Propane Grill
Before cooking your tri tip on a propane grill, it’s important to preheat the grill properly. This ensures that the meat will be cooked evenly and to the desired level of doneness.
Here are the steps to preheat your propane grill:
- Check for gas: Make sure the propane tank is properly connected and has enough gas. If needed, refill or replace the tank.
- Open the lid: Open the lid of the grill to allow proper airflow.
- Turn on the propane: Turn on the gas by opening the valve on the propane tank.
- Ignite the burner: Depending on your grill, use the ignition button or a handheld lighter to ignite the burner. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe ignition.
- Preheat on high: Set the burner to the highest heat setting and close the lid. Allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
While the grill is preheating, you can prepare the tri tip by seasoning it with your desired rub or marinade.
Tips for Preheating the Propane Grill:
- Clean the grill: Before preheating the grill, clean the grates with a wire brush to remove any debris.
- Keep an eye on the temperature: Use a grill thermometer to monitor the temperature. Aim for a preheating temperature of around 450-500°F (230-260°C).
By properly preheating your propane grill, you’ll create the ideal cooking environment for your tri tip and ensure delicious results.
Cooking the Tri Tip
Once your propane grill is preheated, it’s time to start cooking the tri tip. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result:
1. Prepare the Tri Tip
Before placing the tri tip on the grill, it’s important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat and connective tissue from the meat. This will prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking. You can also season the tri tip with your desired rub or marinade.
2. Set up the Grill
Ensure that your propane grill is set up for indirect grilling. This means only lighting the burners on one side of the grill, and placing the tri tip on the unlit side. This indirect heat will allow the tri tip to cook evenly without burning.
3. Cook the Tri Tip
Place the seasoned tri tip on the unlit side of the grill, with the fat side facing up. Close the lid of the grill to retain the heat. Cook the tri tip for about 25-30 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For a medium-rare tri tip, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
4. Rest and Slice
Once the tri tip reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become tender. After resting, slice the tri tip against the grain into thin slices for serving.
Now that you know how to cook tri tip on a propane grill, you can enjoy this flavorful cut of meat at your next barbecue or gathering. Serve it with your favourite side dishes and enjoy a delicious meal.
Q&A
How long should I cook tri tip on a propane grill?
The cooking time for tri tip on a propane grill depends on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. As a general guide, you can cook a 1-inch thick tri tip for about 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, turning it once halfway through the cooking time.
What temperature should I set my propane grill to cook tri tip?
Preheat your propane grill to a medium-high heat of around 400-450°F (200-230°C). This will ensure a nice sear on the outside of the tri tip while allowing it to cook evenly on the inside.
Can I marinade the tri tip before grilling it on a propane grill?
Yes, marinating the tri tip before grilling can add flavor and help tenderize the meat. You can marinate the tri tip for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator. Simply combine your choice of marinade ingredients and place the tri tip in a resealable bag or container with the marinade, making sure it is evenly coated.
How do I know when the tri tip is done cooking on a propane grill?
The best way to determine if the tri tip is done cooking is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should read around 135-140°F (57-60°C). Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees after the meat is removed from the grill, so it’s advisable to remove it from the heat a few degrees below your desired doneness.
Can I cook a frozen tri tip on a propane grill?
While it’s technically possible to cook a frozen tri tip on a propane grill, it’s not recommended. Cooking a frozen tri tip will result in uneven cooking and the meat may end up overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside. It’s best to thaw the tri tip in the refrigerator overnight before grilling to ensure even cooking and the best possible results.