Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Tender Perfection

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Cooking a tri-tip steak to perfection can be challenging, but with sous vide, it’s practically foolproof. Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is one of the best ways to cook this flavorful and tender cut. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook, sous vide ensures precision and control, taking the guesswork out of steak preparation. The result? A mouthwatering, juicy, and perfectly cooked steak every time. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps of making the best Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe that will impress anyone at the dinner table.

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Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe - Perfectly cooked tri-tip steak

Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe: Perfect Steak in 3 Simple Steps Demander à ChatGPT


  • Author: Clara Bourdin
  • Total Time: 1-3 hours and 5 minutes for prep
  • Yield: Serves 2

Description

A perfectly cooked Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe that combines tender, juicy steak with the simplicity of sous vide cooking. This easy method guarantees steak perfection every time, ensuring melt-in-your-mouth results without the hassle of overcooking.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 6-8 oz tri-tip steaks
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Ingredients for Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe - Tri-tip steaks, rosemary, and seasoning.

  • Rosemary sprigs, optional
  • 1 tbsp butter or ghee
  • Immersion circulator

Instructions

  • Preheat the water bath to 129°F (for medium-rare) or your desired temperature using an immersion circulator.
  • Season the tri-tip steaks with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Optionally, add rosemary sprigs.
  • Place the steaks in a vacuum-seal bag or freezer-safe zip-top bag. Remove the air and seal the bag.
  • Submerge the sealed bag in the preheated water bath, ensuring the steak is fully covered. Cook for 1-3 hours.
  • After cooking, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add butter or ghee to the skillet when it begins to smoke.
  • Sear the steaks for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until browned and crispy.

Notes

– For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like garlic or thyme to the bag with the steaks.

– You can use ghee instead of butter for a slightly different flavor.

– If you prefer a different doneness, adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1-3 hours (based on thickness and desired doneness)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sous Vide, Searing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 50g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe, Tri Tip, Sous Vide Steak, Perfect Steak

Table of Content

Why Sous Vide Cooking is Ideal for Tri-Tip

Sous vide is a method where food is cooked in a vacuum-sealed bag in a water bath set to a specific temperature. This ensures that the steak is cooked evenly from edge to edge. The Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is ideal for this method because the tri-tip steak is known for its tenderness when cooked at the right temperature.

Sous vide cooking is especially helpful because it guarantees the steak is cooked exactly how you want it. Whether you enjoy a medium-rare steak or prefer a more well-done result, sous vide takes out the guesswork. Plus, with sous vide, the steak retains all its juices, so you won’t end up with a dry steak.

The key to success with sous vide cooking is precision. By cooking at a consistent, controlled temperature, your Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe will produce perfect results every time.

Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe - Plated steak with sides, ready to serve.
A beautifully plated Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe, showcasing a perfectly cooked steak served with delicious sides.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe

The ingredients for Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe are minimal, allowing the beef to shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 6-8 oz tri-tip steaks: Select steaks of similar size for even cooking.
  • Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds flavor and a little heat.
  • Rosemary sprigs (optional): These are great for infusing flavor while cooking.
  • 1 tbsp butter or ghee: Used for searing the tri-tip after sous vide cooking.
  • Immersion circulator: This is necessary for maintaining the precise temperature needed for sous vide cooking.

The Benefits of Cooking Tri-Tip Sous Vide

Sous vide is ideal for cooking tri-tip because it allows for a perfectly even cook. The Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is cooked in a precise water bath that ensures every piece of the steak is cooked exactly how you want it. This technique is great for those who love tender, juicy steaks without the need for constant monitoring.

Another great benefit is that sous vide cooking allows for easy infusions of flavors. You can add garlic, rosemary, or butter to the bag to infuse your steak with rich and aromatic flavors. Once the cooking is done, all you have to do is sear the steak for a crispy crust.

Sous Vide Cooking Process – The Steps

Cooking Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your tri-tip cooked to perfection.

Step 1: Season the Steak

Start by seasoning your tri-tip steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If you enjoy fresh herbs, add rosemary sprigs for extra flavor. Once seasoned, place the steaks into a vacuum-seal bag. You can also use a freezer-safe zip-top bag if you don’t have a vacuum sealer, just make sure to remove all the air from the bag before sealing.

Step 2: Set Up Your Sous Vide Water Bath

Fill your container with water and attach your immersion circulator. Preheat the water bath to 129°F (for medium-rare) or 135°F (for medium). The beauty of sous vide is that you can adjust the temperature based on your preferred level of doneness. Keep in mind that higher temperatures like 140°F will result in a more medium-well steak, while 129°F to 135°F will give you a tender and juicy tri-tip.

Step 3: Sous Vide the Steak

Submerge your vacuum-sealed steak into the water bath. Make sure the steak is fully submerged and the bag is not floating. Let the steak cook for at least 1 hour, though you can cook it for 2-3 hours for extra tenderness. The sous vide process ensures the steak is cooked evenly and retains all its juices.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

Once your steak is done cooking, it’s time for the finishing touch: searing. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee. When the pan is smoking hot, add your tri-tip steaks and sear them for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. This final step adds a delicious texture to the steak.

Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe: Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

Now that your Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is ready, it’s time to serve it up! This steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.

Suggested Side Dishes for Tri-Tip

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect comfort side for this flavorful tri-tip.
  • Grilled Asparagus: The slight char from grilling pairs beautifully with the juicy tri-tip.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the tri-tip with cauliflower rice.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the savory steak.

Optional Sauces for Your Steak

While Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is delicious on its own, you can add a sauce to complement the steak:

  • Chimichurri Sauce: This vibrant, herbaceous sauce adds freshness and a bit of zing.
  • Red Wine Reduction: A rich red wine sauce pairs wonderfully with the beefy tri-tip.
  • Horseradish Cream: A spicy horseradish sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their steak.

Cooking Time and Temperature Considerations

The key to a perfect Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is understanding the right cooking time and temperature. Sous vide cooking allows you to be flexible with both time and temperature, making it easy to tailor the results to your exact preferences.

Time and Temperature Guide

  • 129°F for medium-rare tri-tip.
  • 135°F for medium tri-tip.
  • 140°F for a more well-done steak.

Sous vide tri-tip should be cooked for at least 1 hour, though it can be cooked for up to 3 hours for optimal tenderness. If you want extra tenderness, feel free to cook it for up to 5 hours—the longer cook times only make the steak more tender.

Why Sous Vide is Worth the Wait

Although sous vide cooking takes longer than traditional methods, it’s worth it for the consistently tender and flavorful results. With sous vide, you don’t have to worry about timing the steak perfectly—just set it, forget it, and let the immersion circulator do all the work. Whether you’re making a special dinner or cooking for a weeknight meal, sous vide guarantees the best results with minimal effort.

Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe: Conclusion

Sous vide tri-tip is a game-changer for anyone who loves perfectly cooked steak. The method allows for precise control over cooking time and temperature, ensuring that every bite is as juicy and tender as the last. Whether you’re pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a light salad, this Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe is sure to impress every time. With just a little time and the right technique, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Sous Vide Tri Tip Recipe: FAQ

How long should I sous vide a tri-tip?

Sous vide tri-tip should be cooked for at least 1 hour, but for optimal tenderness, cook it for 2-3 hours.

What temperature is tri-tip most tender?

The ideal temperature range for tri-tip is 129°F to 135°F for a tender, medium-rare to medium steak.

Should tri-tip be cooked fast or slow?

Tri-tip benefits from slow cooking, and sous vide is the perfect method to achieve slow, even cooking for a tender result.

Is 4 hours too long to sous vide a steak?

Four hours is not too long for sous vide. Tri-tip can be cooked for up to 5 hours without compromising texture, making it flexible for your schedule.

I’m Clara Bourdin, and cooking has been my passion since I was a little girl. At 54, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipes, tips, and culinary traditions with you. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s make delicious meals together!
Clara Bourdin

Hi, I’m Clara Bourdin — a home cook, food writer, and cookbook author. Since 2005, I’ve been sharing simple, seasonal recipes, family favorites, and travel finds from my kitchen in Florida.

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