Santa Maria-Style Grilled Tri Tip

Santa Maria-Style Grilled Tri Tip

Santa Maria-style tri tip is all about letting quality beef shine. This California BBQ classic uses a simple seasoning blend and high-heat grilling to create a beautifully charred crust and juicy center. With premium Riverbend Cattle Company Tri Tip, you get rich beef flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 2–3 lb Riverbend Cattle Company Tri Tip
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prep the tri tip: Pat dry and rub with olive oil.
  2. Season generously: Combine salt, garlic powder, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Coat the tri tip evenly on all sides.
  3. Preheat grill: Heat grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F).
  4. Grill the tri tip: Place over direct heat and cook 5–7 minutes per side to build crust.
  5. Move to indirect heat: Continue cooking until internal temperature reaches:
    • 125°F for medium-rare
    • 135°F for medium
  6. Rest and slice: Rest 10–15 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Traditionally served with pinquito beans, grilled bread, and salsa, this recipe is perfect for backyard BBQ season.

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About Riverbend Cattle Company

Riverbend Cattle Company is a cattle ranch located on the shores of the Withlacoochee River and Bonnet Lake, just outside historic Floral City, Florida. We raise grass-fed, grain-finished beef cattle in a compassionate and sustainable manner so that the beef is healthy and tastes amazing.

We offer a one-stop shop for families and individuals that want to incorporate a healthy and local meat diet into their lives. Our mission is to carry on the rich Florida farming history by offering and supporting local families and their recipes, handed down for generations. 

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