Welcome to my guide on cooking tri tip steak! In this article, I will show you how to make a delicious tri tip steak using a cast iron skillet and oven. By following my simple steps, you will be able to impress your friends and family with a perfectly cooked tri tip steak. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways:
- Cooking a tri tip steak in a cast iron skillet and oven requires proper preparation and technique.
- Choosing the right cut of tri tip steak is essential for a flavorful and tender result.
- Searing the tri tip steak in a cast iron skillet creates a delicious crust, while the oven ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with different oven cooking methods to achieve your desired level of doneness.
Choosing the Right Cut of Tri Tip Steak
Cooking a tri tip steak starts with choosing the right cut. The tri tip is a triangular muscle located on the bottom sirloin of the cow. It’s a lean and tender cut, perfect for grilling and roasting.
There are different grades of tri tip steak, such as select, choice, and prime. Select is the lowest grade, with less marbling and tenderness. Choice is a mid-level grade, with more marbling and flavor. Prime is the highest grade, with the most marbling and tenderness.
When selecting a tri tip steak, look for one with a nice fat cap and even marbling. The fat cap, located on one side of the steak, adds flavor and moisture during cooking. The marbling, which are the small lines of fat within the muscle, adds tenderness and flavor to the meat.
Once you’ve chosen the right cut, it’s time to explore cooking techniques to make the most out of your tri tip steak.
Preparing the Tri Tip Steak
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the tri tip steak properly. Here’s the recipe I use to add flavor and enhance the tenderness of the meat:
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the tri tip steak in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure it covers the steak completely.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
- Remove the steak from the bag and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Season the steak with an additional pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.
- Let the steak rest for another 10 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature fully.
This recipe is simple but highly effective in bringing out the flavors of the tri tip steak. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat, while the combination of spices adds an extra layer of flavor.
Pro Tip:
For an alternative recipe, try using a dry rub instead of a marinade. Mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper and rub it onto the tri tip steak, then let it rest before cooking. The spices will create a flavorful crust on the steak.
Searing the Tri Tip Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet
The sear and oven method is an efficient way to cook tri tip steak that ensures a flavorful crust and even cooking. To start, heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and let it heat up for a minute.
Pat the tri tip steak dry and season it generously with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, place the steak in the skillet and let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Use tongs to flip the steak and sear the other side accordingly.
Once the steak is seared, transfer the cast iron skillet to the oven preheated to 400°F. Cook the steak for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cut. Use a thermometer to check for the desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F.
Take the steak out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and enhance the flavors of the steak. Slice the steak against the grain and serve immediately.
In conclusion, the sear and oven method is an excellent technique for cooking tri tip steak in a cast iron skillet. The heat-retaining properties of the skillet ensure even cooking, while the sear adds a flavorful crust. Now that you’ve mastered the art of searing, it’s time to explore different oven cooking methods in the next section.
Oven Cooking Methods for Tri Tip Steak
The oven is a versatile tool when it comes to cooking tri tip steak, offering options for roasting, broiling, and reverse searing. Each method has its own benefits, so it’s worth trying them all to see which one you prefer.
Roasting
Roasting is the most straightforward oven method for cooking tri tip steak. Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the seasoned steak in a baking dish. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking.
Broiling
Broiling is a quick and easy method that is ideal for achieving a crispy finish. Preheat your broiler on high and place the seasoned steak on a broiler pan. Broil for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the desired doneness is achieved. Be sure to keep a close eye on the steak to prevent burning.
Reverse Searing
Reverse searing is a method that involves slow cooking the steak in the oven first, then searing it in a cast iron skillet for a crusty finish. Preheat your oven to 275°F and place the seasoned steak on a baking dish. Cook for 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 10-15°F below your desired doneness. Then, sear the steak in a preheated cast iron skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side to achieve a crusty finish.
- Roasting: Preheat oven to 425°F, bake for 15-20 minutes
- Broiling: Preheat broiler on high, broil for 6-8 minutes
- Reverse searing: Preheat oven to 275°F, bake for 20-30 minutes, then sear in cast iron skillet
“Roasting is the most straightforward oven method, while broiling provides a crispy finish. Reverse searing is a little more involved, but results in a tender and juicy steak with a delicious crust.”
Cooking Tri Tip Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet and Oven
Now that you’ve selected the perfect cut of tri tip steak and prepared it with care, it’s time to cook it up using a cast iron skillet and oven. This cooking technique is a surefire way to get a juicy and full-flavored steak.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat a cast iron skillet on medium heat on the stovetop until it’s hot enough to sear the steak. The skillet should be large enough to fit the steak without crowding it.
Next, season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the skillet is hot enough, place the steak on it and let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until well-browned. Don’t move the steak around while it’s searing, as this can impede the searing process.
After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and let the steak cook for around 10-15 minutes. This will depend on the thickness of the steak and how well-done you prefer it. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the steak has reached your desired level of doneness.
Once the steak has cooked in the oven, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will also make it easier to slice the steak. Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Looking to add some variety to your cast iron skillet recipes? Try adding in some garlic and herbs while searing the steak or topping it with a compound butter after cooking. The possibilities are endless!
Cooking Tri Tip Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet and Oven
Now that you have learned about the different cuts of tri tip steak, the preparation process, and the different cooking methods, it’s time to put it all together and cook the perfect tri tip steak using a cast iron skillet and oven. Here is my tried and tested method for a delicious and juicy tri tip steak:
Ingredients:
- 1 to 2-pound tri tip steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Remove the tri tip steak from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Pat the tri tip steak dry and season it with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Add the steak to the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until well-browned.
- Add fresh rosemary and butter to the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve and enjoy!
With this method, you can achieve a perfectly cooked tri tip steak with a flavorful crust and juicy center. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and cooking times to suit your taste preferences.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to let the steak rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and avoid a dry steak.
Try this recipe and impress your family and friends with a delicious tri tip steak cooked to perfection using a cast iron skillet and oven.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of skillet instead of a cast iron skillet?
A: While a cast iron skillet is recommended for its ability to retain heat and create an excellent crust, you can use a different type of skillet if necessary. Just keep in mind that the cooking times and results may vary.
Q: What is the recommended cooking temperature for tri tip steak in the oven?
A: It is recommended to preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) for cooking tri tip steak. This temperature helps achieve a nicely browned crust and a desired level of doneness.
Q: How long should I let the tri tip steak rest before slicing?
A: It is recommended to let the tri tip steak rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Q: Can I use a marinade for the tri tip steak?
A: Absolutely! Using a marinade can add extra flavor to the tri tip steak. It’s best to marinate the steak for at least 1-2 hours or even overnight for maximum flavor. Just be sure to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Q: What is the recommended internal temperature for cooking tri tip steak?
A: For medium-rare, the recommended internal temperature for tri tip steak is 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Q: Can I use the reverse sear method for cooking tri tip steak?
A: Yes, the reverse sear method can be used for tri tip steak. This method involves cooking the steak in a low-temperature oven first, followed by a quick sear in a hot skillet. It helps achieve a more evenly cooked steak with a flavorful crust.
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