slow cooker tri tip roast recipe

slow cooker tri tip roast recipe

The Best slow cooker tri tip roast recipe

I have been making this slow cooker tri tip roast recipe for years, and it is hands down one of the easiest ways to get a tender, flavorful dinner on the table without a lot of fuss. Tri tip is a cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin, and it has a great beefy flavor but can be tough if you cook it too fast. That is why the slow cooker works so well for it. The low, steady heat breaks down the connective tissue, so the meat comes out fork tender every time.

My husband and kids absolutely love it, and I love that I can throw everything in the pot in the morning and come home to a house that smells amazing. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for when you have company coming over. It is one of those meals that feels special but does not require a lot of work. The tri tip gets seasoned with a simple blend of spices and then cooks low and slow in a mixture of beef broth and a little bit of Worcestershire sauce.

The result is a roast that is juicy and full of flavor. I usually serve it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, but it is also great sliced thin for sandwiches the next day. My family gets excited when they see me pulling out the slow cooker because they know what is coming. Health wise, tri tip is a lean cut of beef, especially if you trim off any visible fat before cooking.

It is a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are important for energy and overall health. Using the slow cooker means you do not need to add a lot of extra oil or butter, so the dish stays relatively light. I feel good about serving this to my family because I know it is a balanced meal that fills them up without being too heavy. Plus, the leftovers are just as good, which makes meal prep for the next day easy.

Another reason I love this recipe is that it is so forgiving. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste, add more vegetables to the pot, or even use a different liquid like red wine or tomato sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, and you do not have to stand over the stove. It is a set it and forget it kind of meal that always comes out great.

Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just for your family, this slow cooker tri tip roast is a winner. I hope you give it a try and see for yourself how easy and delicious it is.

Slow Cooker Tri Tip Roast

Slow Cooker Tri Tip Roast

4.6 from 1640 votes

This slow cooker tri tip roast is tender, juicy, and full of savory flavor. The meat cooks low and slow in a simple broth with spices, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 10 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Roast

2 to 3 pound tri tip roast, trimmed of excess fat
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cooking Liquid

1 cup beef broth, low sodium
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 sprig fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried

For Thickening (Optional)

2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the tri tip roast dry with paper towels.
2In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3Rub the spice mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat every side evenly.
4Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until it shimmers.
5Sear the tri tip roast for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms.
6This step adds flavor, so do not skip it.
7Place the seared roast into the slow cooker.
8In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
9Pour the mixture around the roast, not directly over the top, to keep the seasoning intact.
10Add the rosemary sprig.
11Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
12The roast is done when it is fork tender and easily shreds or slices.
13The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F for medium rare, but I prefer 160°F for a more well done texture.
14Carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes.
15If you want a thicker gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer.
16Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl, then whisk it into the simmering liquid.
17Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
18Slice the tri tip against the grain into thin pieces.
19Serve with the gravy on the side or drizzled over the top.
20Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6 quart or larger)
Large skillet
Tongs
Measuring spoons
Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For best results, always sear the roast before adding it to the slow cooker. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sliced meat is also great on sandwiches or in tacos.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Tri Tip Roast Works

I always keep this slow cooker tri tip roast recipe in my back pocket for busy days when I want a hearty meal without a lot of effort. It is perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or even just a regular weeknight when you need something comforting. The leftovers are just as good, so I often make extra to use in sandwiches or salads the next day.

To store leftovers, let the meat cool completely, then place it in an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, I like to slice the meat and warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth over medium low heat.

This keeps it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the skillet method gives better results. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or on a crusty roll for a delicious sandwich.

This recipe is a true family favorite, and I am sure it will become one in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Tri Tip Roast

1. Can I cook tri tip roast on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 4 to 5 hours instead of low for 6 to 7 hours. The meat will still be tender, but cooking on low gives a more consistent texture and deeper flavor. If you are short on time, high works fine.

2. Do I have to sear the tri tip before putting it in the slow cooker?

Searing is not strictly necessary, but I highly recommend it. It creates a brown crust that adds a rich, savory flavor to the meat. Without searing, the roast will still be tender but will lack that depth of taste.

3. How do I know when the tri tip is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium rare, aim for 135°F to 140°F. For medium, 145°F to 150°F. For well done, 160°F or higher. The meat should also be fork tender and easy to pull apart.

4. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the roast?

Absolutely. Potatoes, carrots, and onions work great. Add them around the roast about halfway through cooking so they do not get too mushy. Root vegetables hold up well to the long cook time.

5. How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover tri tip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a skillet with a little beef broth over medium low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the skillet method keeps it moist.

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