This marinade brings out everything that makes tri-tip one of the best cuts to grill!
A mix of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh lime juice gives it the right balance of saltiness, acidity, and depth.
I always massage the marinade into the meat before letting it sit so the flavors absorb more evenly.
Even if you don’t have time for an overnight soak, a few hours will still get you solid results.
For the best sear, pat the meat dry before grilling so the surface caramelizes instead of steaming.
How to Make Bobby Flay Tri Tip Marinade
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Minced Garlic
- 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 tsp Brown Sugar
- Two 4-pound Tri-Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce.
Let them combine thoroughly for a harmonious blend.
Step 2:
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and brown sugar to the mixture.
Stir to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the seasonings.
Step 3:
Place the trimmed tri-tips in a large resealable plastic bag or container.
Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Step 4:
Seal the bag or cover the container.
Refrigerate the marinated beef for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
Step 5:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Once ready, remove the tri-tips from the marinade and place them on the grill.
Cook each side for approximately 20 minutes, or until desired doneness is achieved.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Marinade in Advance
For deeper flavors and tender beef, allow the tri-tip to marinate overnight if time permits.
Longer marination maximizes taste absorption, giving the dish an exceptional boost.
Practice Patience
Do not skip the resting period after cooking.
Letting the meat rest ensures juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.
Keep an Eye on Heat
Monitoring your grill’s temperature carefully helps prevent overcooking or burning the tri-tips.
Aim for consistent medium-high heat for best results.
What to Serve with Bobby Flay Tri-Tip Marinade
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with classic garlic mashed potatoes.
The creamy texture pairs nicely with the juicy, tender tri-tip, creating a comforting combination.
Adding a touch of roasted garlic makes this side dish irresistible.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a fantastic complement, offering a light and healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the marinade.
The charred tips add a touch of smokiness, enhancing the meal perfectly.
Consider drizzling a little lemon juice for extra freshness.
Cornbread
Cornbread is an awesome option with its sweet, crumbly texture.
When served warm, it offers a wonderful balance to the savory tri-tip marinade.
A hint of honey in the cornbread brings everything together beautifully.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a change from traditional starches, try serving tri-tip with sweet potato fries.
The sweet and savory notes of the fries complement the seasoned beef well.
Serve them with a simple yogurt dip for added flavor.
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad offers a refreshing and colorful side.
Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a cool and vibrant pairing for your tri-tip.
It’s light and full of flavor, making it perfect for a summer BBQ.
Variations and Substitutions
Soy Sauce Alternatives
You can use tamari if you’re avoiding gluten.
Coconut aminos work well for a soy-free option.
Oil Substitutes
Try avocado oil for a richer flavor profile.
Olive oil is a healthier choice and still works great.
Sweetness Tweaks
Honey or agave nectar can replace white sugar seamlessly.
Brown sugar offers a deeper, caramelized note.
Spice Adjustments
Reduce the black pepper for a milder dish.
Add crushed red pepper for extra heat.
Feel free to personalize with your favorite spices!
Garlic Insights
Use fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
Pre-minced garlic saves time and adds convenience.
You can control the intensity by adjusting the amount of garlic used.
How to Store Leftover Bobby Flay Tri Tip Marinade
Storing leftover Bobby Flay tri tip marinade can really save you time for your next cookout!
Refrigeration
If you’re planning to use the marinade soon, pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.
This method keeps the flavors locked in and can preserve the marinade for up to a week.
Just remember, if it has touched raw meat, discard it to avoid any health risks.
Freezing
Want to keep it for even longer?
Freezing is a great idea!
Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store the marinade for up to three months.
Label and date them to make sure you know when to use them by.
Tips for Best Flavor
Before using the marinade again, give it a good mix or whisk to ensure the oil and other ingredients combine properly.
This ensures you get all the flavors distributed evenly when you use it next time.
Enjoy your delicious tri tip without the hassle of mixing a fresh marinade each time!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-marinating
You might think that leaving tri-tip in the marinade for too long will make it tastier and juicier, but it can actually break down the protein and alter the texture.
I suggest marinating the tri-tip for a few hours, or overnight at the most.
Incorrect Cooking Temperature
Cooking your tri-tip at the wrong temperature can ruin your dish.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and aim for a medium-rare to medium (around 140°F).
That way, your tri-tip stays tender and juicy!
Not Letting It Rest
The resting period is crucial for a succulent tri-tip.
If you skip it, the juices will escape onto the cutting board instead of staying in the meat.
I recommend letting it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Bobby Flay Tri Tip Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tbsp Minced Garlic
- 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 tsp Brown Sugar
- Two 4-pound Tri-Tips
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Let them combine thoroughly for a harmonious blend.
- Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and brown sugar to the mixture.
- Stir to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Place the trimmed tri-tips in a large resealable plastic bag or container.
- Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the container.
- Refrigerate the marinated beef for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Once ready, remove the tri-tips from the marinade and place them on the grill.
- Cook each side for approximately 20 minutes, or until desired doneness is achieved.