Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Smoky grilled tri-tip steak seasoned with a bold dry rub inspired by Raider Nation flavors, perfect for a summer game day feast. This american-inspired bbq & smoked ready in about 70 minutes pairs pounds tri-tip roast, paprika, brown sugar for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 40 min Cook: 30 min Serves 6 American cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons paprika, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon chili powder to create the dry rub.
  2. Step 2: Pat dry 2 pounds tri-tip roast and rub the 2 tablespoons olive oil evenly over the meat. Generously coat the tri-tip with the dry rub mixture, pressing it into the surface. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Place the tri-tip on the grill and sear for 5 minutes per side to develop a crust.
  4. Step 4: Move the tri-tip to indirect heat and continue grilling for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
  5. Step 5: Remove the tri-tip from the grill and brush it with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to add brightness. Tent loosely with foil and rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub take to make?

Total time is about 70 minutes (40 min prep + 30 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep pounds tri-tip roast from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled BBQ Tri-Tip with Raider-Style Dry Rub?

American bbq & smoked like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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