If you crave mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth beef without spending hours tending the oven or grill, Instant Pot Tri Tip is about to become your new weeknight hero. This recipe takes the savory, juicy richness of a classic tri-tip roast and transforms it into an unfussy, flavor-packed dinner courtesy of a trusty pressure cooker. With aromatic spices, a splash of Worcestershire, and a hands-off approach that guarantees juicy, sliceable beef, you’ll get results worthy of a Sunday supper but in just 50 minutes! Get ready to make this Instant Pot Tri Tip a mainstay in your kitchen—your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to snag a bite) will thank you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in simplicity, and this Instant Pot Tri Tip recipe highlights how everyday pantry staples can create a truly memorable meal. Each ingredient plays its part—from building a bold, smoky crust to developing a rich, beefy sauce that begs to be ladled over each slice.
- Tri-tip roast (2-3 pounds): Choose a well-marbled roast for juicy, tender beef that soaks up the seasonings beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This helps achieve that irresistible brown crust and adds subtle flavor depth.
- Kosher salt (1 tablespoon): Seasoning is key—this draws out moisture and helps the spices infuse every bite.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Just the right kick for peppery, robust finish.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): No-fuss way to distribute garlicky flavor throughout the roast.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Provides sweetness and a mellow, savory layer.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness and a deep red hue—essential for color and flavor.
- Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Savory, piney, and aromatic for an irresistible herbaceous note.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Builds the all-important sauce and keeps the tri tip tender during cooking.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): The secret umami-booster—just a splash makes all the difference.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (3): For bursts of deep-roasted garlic flavor in every spoonful of jus.
- Medium onion, quartered (1): It melts into the savory cooking liquid, adding richness and sweetness.
How to Make Instant Pot Tri Tip
Step 1: Mix and Rub the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried rosemary. Pat your tri tip roast dry and generously massage this savory blend all over—it’s like a fragrant spa day for your beef and sets the foundation for crave-worthy flavor in every forkful.
Step 2: Sear for a Golden Crust
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, and once hot, carefully sear the tri tip on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown crust. Not only does this lock in the juices, but it’ll also add richness and complexity to the final dish.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Base
Remove the seared tri tip and set it aside. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits—this is where big flavor lives! Add the smashed garlic and quartered onion right into the pot, letting them become part of the irresistible cooking liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Return the tri tip to the pot, nestling it into the broth and aromatics. Secure the Instant Pot lid, set to manual high pressure for 25–30 minutes (adjust according to your preferred doneness and roast size), and let the magic happen. When time’s up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then finish with a quick release.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Move the tri tip to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This crucial (but tough-to-wait-for) step ensures the juices stay put when you slice. Cut against the grain for the most tender, buttery result, then spoon some of that luscious cooking liquid over each portion. Your Instant Pot Tri Tip is officially ready for applause!
How to Serve Instant Pot Tri Tip
Garnishes
A final flourish always makes this dish feel special. Try a scatter of freshly chopped parsley for color, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a drizzle of the rich pan juices for extra indulgence. A handful of microgreens or chives also work beautifully for a touch of freshness.
Side Dishes
Instant Pot Tri Tip pairs fabulously with creamy mashed potatoes or a big tray of roasted vegetables—think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the incredible sauce, and a crisp green salad provides welcome balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the tri tip thin for sandwiches with horseradish cream, or pile it high on sliders with pickled onions. Leftover slices make delicious tacos, or dice the beef and toss with sauteed veggies for a hearty hash. However you present it, Instant Pot Tri Tip will steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Instant Pot Tri Tip juicy and tender, store any leftovers in an airtight container with a good splash of the cooking juices. It’ll last 3–4 days in the fridge and stay moist when you’re ready for round two.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, let the tri tip cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil (with extra sauce if possible) and pop it into a freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months; it’s a mealtime lifesaver on busy nights.
Reheating
Gently rewarm sliced Instant Pot Tri Tip with any reserved juices, either in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. A quick splash of beef broth during reheating can help revive the roast’s tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use this recipe with a frozen tri tip?
Absolutely! If your tri tip is frozen, skip the searing step, season it well, and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time in the Instant Pot. Searing always adds flavor, but it’ll still turn out tasty without it.
How do I know when the tri tip is done?
For Instant Pot Tri Tip, 25 minutes at high pressure delivers a wonderfully sliceable, medium roast; if you prefer more well-done or have a larger roast, lean toward 30 minutes. Always let the tri tip rest for extra juiciness and slice against the grain for the best texture.
Can I marinate the tri tip overnight?
Definitely! Marinating with the spice rub and a dash of Worcestershire sauce overnight helps extra flavor permeate every inch of the roast. This step is optional but delicious, especially if you’re prepping ahead for guests.
What can I use instead of tri tip?
Sirloin roast, brisket, or even a well-marbled round roast make great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time for larger or smaller cuts and expect slightly different (but still delicious!) results.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the tri tip after cooking, then simmer the liquid on sauté mode for a few minutes to reduce. For an even richer consistency, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) as it simmers.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly irresistible about Instant Pot Tri Tip—it brings people together and makes dinner feel special, no matter the day of the week. Give this recipe a try, and soon, it’ll be part of your regular rotation. Enjoy every savory, tender bite!
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Instant Pot Tri Tip Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Tender and flavorful, this Instant Pot Tri-Tip recipe is a simple way to enjoy a delicious roast in a fraction of the time. With a savory spice rub and a savory cooking broth, this dish is perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Tri-Tip Roast:
- 2–3 pound tri-tip roast
Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Cooking Broth:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 medium onion, quartered
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Rub: Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried rosemary. Rub the mixture over the tri-tip.
- Sear the Tri-Tip: Sear the tri-tip in the Instant Pot with olive oil until browned on all sides.
- Add Broth and Aromatics: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add garlic and onion.
- Cook Under Pressure: Pressure cook the tri-tip for 25-30 minutes.
- Release Pressure and Rest: Allow a natural release, then slice the tri-tip and serve with cooking juices.
Notes
- Marinate the tri-tip overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
