Traeger Tri Tip Recipe: Smoke Brisket-Style in 3 Easy Steps

Imagine the sizzle of a perfectly smoked traeger tri tip recipe, tender enough to cut with a fork, bursting with smoky, seasoned goodness. If you’re here, you probably love the thrill of barbecue—the satisfaction of crafting meals that bring people together. But what if we told you there’s a way to elevate your BBQ game with traeger tri tip recipe that delivers melt-in-your-mouth results?

This guide is crafted just for you—whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard novice with a Traeger smoker. From preparation to plating, you’ll learn how to turn a humble tri tip into a show-stopping centerpiece.

What Makes Tri Tip Perfect for Smoking?

What Is Tri Tip?

Tri tip is a triangular-shaped cut of beef taken from the bottom sirloin. Known for its rich flavor and marbled texture, it’s a versatile cut that grills, roasts, and smokes beautifully. Unlike brisket, which can take up to 12 hours to cook, tri tip delivers similar flavors with a fraction of the cooking time—making it a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.

Why Smoke It Brisket-Style?

Smoking tri tip brisket-style means cooking it low and slow, infusing it with deep smoky flavor while breaking down connective tissue for a tender result. When done right, it gives you the best of both worlds: the bold taste of brisket and the manageable cooking time of a steak.

Tools and Ingredients You’ll Need

Essential Tools

Before you fire up your smoker, gather these essentials:

• Pellet Smoker (like a Traeger): Reliable and consistent, a pellet smoker simplifies temperature control.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures precise cooking temperatures.
• Butcher Paper or Foil: Ideal for wrapping the meat during the final stages.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Essential for clean, uniform slices.

Ingredients for Traeger Tri Tip Recipe

Here’s your go-to ingredient list to achieve brisket-style magic:

Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Tri Tip Brisket-Style

1. Preparing the Tri Tip

Success begins with proper prep:

• Trim the Fat: Remove excess fat to ensure even cooking and optimal seasoning penetration.
• Season Generously: Rub your tri tip with olive oil, then coat it evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to flavor.
• Rest Before Smoking: Let the seasoned tri tip sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb flavors.

2. Setting Up Your Smoker

To get the best results, proper smoker setup is essential:

• Preheat your Traeger or pellet smoker to 225°F.
• Use hardwood pellets like oak or hickory for bold, smoky flavor.
• Check that your pellet hopper is full and your smoker’s temperature is stable.

3. Smoking the Tri Tip

Now it’s time to work your magic:

• Position the Meat: Place the tri tip on the grill, fat side up, to let the fat render down and keep the meat juicy.
• Monitor the Temperature: Smoke the tri tip until its internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. This should take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Spritz for Moisture (Optional): Use a spray bottle filled with apple juice or broth to mist the meat every 30 minutes.

4. Wrapping and Resting

Once your traeger tri tip recipe reaches the desired temperature, wrap it tightly in butcher paper or aluminum foil:

• Let the wrapped traeger tri tip recipe rest for 15–20 minutes to lock in juices.
• Use this time to prepare your sides or set the table for an unforgettable BBQ meal.

Santa Maria Style Smoked Tri Tip Recipe

Tri tip and Santa Maria seasoning are a match made in BBQ heaven. This regional specialty is all about bold, simple flavors:

Santa Maria Style Seasoning Blend

Mix the following for a classic Santa Maria rub:

• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Cooking the Santa Maria Way

• Follow the same smoking process outlined above.
• Serve with traditional sides like pinquito beans, fresh salsa, and buttery garlic bread for an authentic Santa Maria experience.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned pitmasters can run into challenges. Here’s how to steer clear of the most common mistakes:

1. Over-Smoking: Too much smoke can overpower the meat’s natural flavor. Stick to hardwoods like oak or hickory, and avoid overloading the smoker.
2. Skipping the Resting Step: Resting redistributes juices for a more tender bite. Never skip it!
3. Underestimating the Importance of a Thermometer: Guesswork can ruin your BBQ. Use a reliable meat thermometer to achieve perfect doneness.

FAQs: Mastering the Traeger Tri Tip Recipe

Q: How long does it take to smoke traeger tri tip recipe on a pellet smoker?
A: Smoking at 225°F takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on the size of the roast and desired doneness.

Q: Can I cook tri tip brisket-style without wrapping it?
A: Yes, but wrapping helps retain moisture and create a tender texture.

Q: What wood pellets work best for smoking tri tip?
A: Oak and hickory are excellent for their robust flavor. For a sweeter touch, try cherry or applewood.

Conclusion: Your BBQ Game-Changer Awaits

You’ve now got the know-how to turn a tri tip into a smoky masterpiece. Whether you’re going for a brisket-style approach or Santa Maria flair, the key is patience, precision, and passion. Light up your smoker, follow these steps, and enjoy the applause from friends and family as they savor every bite.

Ready to dive into your next BBQ adventure? Share your tri tip success story in the comments below or tag us on social media!