Name: Slow Cooker Tri Tip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 420 min
Total time: 430 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 4 cloves garlic minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3 pounds tri-tip beef roast trimmed; 2 cups beef broth; 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 6 sandwich buns optional; 6 slices Swiss cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When I think about comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Slow Cooker Tri Tip. It brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the dinner table, savoring every tender bite of perfectly cooked meat. This dish is truly a game-changer, especially on those cold winter nights when you need something hearty and satisfying. The aroma that fills your home while it cooks is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I love the simplicity of tossing everything into the slow cooker and letting it work its magic while I go about my day. It’s like having a personal chef at home!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
7 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
420 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Slow Cooker, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Slow Cooker Tri Tip

Convenience at Its Best

One of the reasons I adore Slow Cooker Tri Tip is the sheer convenience it offers. You can prepare it in the morning and return home to a perfectly cooked meal, making it the ideal option for busy weeknights.

Flavorful and Rich

The blend of spices, including salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. The slow cooking process allows the spices to penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, Slow Cooker Tri Tip always impresses. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides – think roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes!

Effortless Shredding

After hours of slow cooking, the tri-tip becomes tender and juicy, making it easy to shred with just two forks. This is especially great for sandwiches, where you can layer the meat with cheese and serve it with a dipping sauce.

Cost-Effective

Tri-tip is an affordable cut of meat that yields a generous amount, making it economical for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. You can enjoy a delicious meal without overspending.

Main Ingredients for Slow Cooker Tri Tip

The ingredients for Slow Cooker Tri Tip are elegantly simple and work harmoniously to create a mouthwatering dish. The star, of course, is the tri-tip beef roast, which, when cooked slowly, becomes incredibly tender. The seasonings enhance the natural flavors and build a rich, savory sauce that you can’t resist.

1 1/4 teaspoons salt – Essential for enhancing the meat’s flavor.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the seasoning blend.
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Infuses a warm, earthy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – Brings a fragrant note that complements the beef.
4 cloves garlic minced – Provides a robust flavor and aroma.
1 teaspoon onion powder – A convenient way to add onion flavor without the fuss.
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano – Offers a hint of sweetness and depth.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness to the dish.
3 pounds tri-tip beef roast trimmed – The central cut that guarantees moisture and flavor.
2 cups beef broth – Keeps the meat juicy and enhances the sauce.
1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Gives an umami boost and complex flavor.
6 sandwich buns optional – Great for serving the shredded meat as sandwiches.
6 slices Swiss cheese optional – A delicious topping for the sandwiches.

Making Slow Cooker Tri Tip

The process of making Slow Cooker Tri Tip is both simple and rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare this dish! Start by gathering your ingredients and follow these straightforward steps to create a meal that will impress your family.

In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. This spice mix is the foundation of flavor for the meat. Make sure the spices are thoroughly combined to ensure an even seasoning.
Rub the spice mix evenly over the tri-tip roast. Don’t be shy here; you want the seasoning to coat the meat well. As you rub it in, feel the texture of the meat and visualize how flavorful it will be once it’s done.
Place the seasoned tri-tip into the slow cooker. This is where the magic happens! The slow cooker will transform the meat into a tender masterpiece. Carefully pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce around the meat, being cautious not to wash away the seasoning. This liquid will keep the meat moist and create a delicious sauce.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll want to check occasionally, but generally, you can leave it alone. As it cooks, enjoy the enticing aromas wafting through your home, signaling that a delicious meal is on the way.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the tri-tip from the slow cooker. It should be so tender that it shreds easily with a fork. Use two forks to shred the meat, revealing its juicy interior.
To serve, you can prepare sandwiches by lightly buttering and toasting the buns. Layer the shredded meat on the buns and top it with a slice of Swiss cheese. If you want that cheese melty, place the sandwiches under a broiler for a minute or two until the cheese is nicely melted.
For added flavor, serve with a small bowl of the strained cooking liquid as a dipping sauce. This is optional, but trust me, it elevates the experience even more.

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking is key: The low and slow cooking method allows the tri-tip to become incredibly tender.
Seasoning matters: Don’t skip on the seasoning mix; it enhances the flavor profile significantly.
Check the meat: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for perfect doneness.
Rest before shredding: Let the meat rest for a few minutes before shredding to retain moisture.

Substitutions and Tips

There are always ways to adapt a recipe to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for substitutes or tips to enhance your cooking experience, here are some great ideas for Slow Cooker Tri Tip.

Storage: After enjoying your Slow Cooker Tri Tip, let the leftovers cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the shredded meat for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container!
Pairing: Serve your tri-tip with roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Meal prep: Consider preparing the spice mix ahead of time and storing it in a jar for quick access during busy weekdays.
Flavor enhancement: For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or your favorite barbecue sauce to the broth.
Serving style: Transform leftovers into tacos or burritos the next day for a delicious twist!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Tri Tip, the options are plentiful! Here are some delightful ways to present this dish:

Classic Sandwiches: Serve the shredded meat on toasted sandwich buns with Swiss cheese and a side of dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.
Hearty Plates: Pair the tri-tip with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting dinner.
Salads: Top a fresh garden salad with shredded tri-tip for a protein-packed lunch.
Family Gatherings: It’s perfect for larger meals; serve it on a buffet with various sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob.
Seasonal Pairings: In winter, consider serving with roasted root vegetables, while in summer, fresh corn and tomato salad can brighten the plate.
Leftover Creativity: Use the shredded meat for tacos, quesadillas, or even as a topping on nachos for a fun twist.

FAQ

Tri-tip is a triangular cut of beef from the bottom sirloin. It’s known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. This cut became popular for grilling and barbecuing due to its relatively low cost and great taste. When cooked in a slow cooker, like in the Slow Cooker Tri Tip recipe, it becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred, making it perfect for sandwiches or served over rice or potatoes.

While tri-tip is the recommended cut for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other cuts. Cuts like chuck roast or brisket can also work well in a slow cooker. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut’s fat content and thickness. The goal is always to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

The best way to determine if your tri-tip is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F for medium-rare. If you prefer it more well-done, you can cook it until it reaches 160°F or higher. After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding; this will help retain its juices.

There are countless sides that pair beautifully with Slow Cooker Tri Tip. Consider classic choices like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it in sandwiches with coleslaw or on top of a hearty salad. Experiment with different sides to find your favorite combination – the possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Tri Tip is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its tender, juicy meat and rich flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to give it a try tonight; you won’t regret it!