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A Tri-Tip sandwich with fresh toppings on a wooden board

Tri-Tip Sandwich

A robust and flavorful sandwich featuring perfectly grilled tri-tip beef, sliced thin against the grain for maximum tenderness. Topped with sweet, caramelized onions, melty provolone cheese, and a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled in a toasted artisan roll, this sandwich is ideal for a hearty lunch or a game-day feast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine American, Barbecue
Servings 4 sandwiches

Equipment

  • Grill or Grill Pan: For cooking the tri-tip.
  • Cast Iron Skillet or Sauté Pan: For caramelizing onions.
  • Tongs: To handle and turn the meat safely.
  • Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing the meat and onions.
  • Aluminum Foil: For tenting the meat while it rests.
  • Toaster or Oven (optional): For lightly toasting the sandwich rolls.

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tri-Tip
  • 1.5 –2 lbs tri-tip beef trimmed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika optional for extra smokiness
  • For the Caramelized Onions
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp sugar optional, to enhance caramelization
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar optional, for depth of flavor
  • For Assembly
  • 4 crusty sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns
  • 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese optional
  • A handful of fresh arugula or lettuce leaves optional
  • Tangy barbecue sauce or horseradish sauce to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Season the Tri-Tip:
  • Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
  • Rub the tri-tip evenly with olive oil.
  • Season all sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Grill the Tri-Tip:
  • Place the tri-tip on the grill.
  • Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time based on thickness and your desired doneness).
  • Use tongs to turn the meat gently, avoiding any piercing to preserve juices.
  • Remove from the grill and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for approximately 5 minutes.
  • Caramelize the Onions:
  • While the meat rests, heat the skillet over medium heat.
  • Add butter and olive oil.
  • Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and have developed a deep golden color (about 10–12 minutes).
  • Optionally, stir in the sugar and balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes to further deepen the flavor.
  • Slice the Tri-Tip:
  • After resting, slice the tri-tip thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  • Assemble the Sandwich:
  • Lightly toast the sandwich rolls on the grill or in a toaster.
  • If using cheese, place a slice on the bottom half of each bun so it can warm and slightly melt from the heat of the meat.
  • Layer the sliced tri-tip evenly over the cheese.
  • Top with a generous helping of caramelized onions.
  • Drizzle with your favorite tangy sauce and add fresh arugula or lettuce if desired.
  • Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes (including grilling the meat and caramelizing the onions)
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches
  • Category: Main Course, Sandwich
  • Method: Grilling, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American, Barbecue
  • Diet: High-Protein (Gluten-Free option available with gluten-free buns)
  • Keywords
  • Tri-Tip Sandwich, Grilled Beef Sandwich, Caramelized Onion Sandwich, Barbecue Sandwich, Game Day Recipe, American Cuisine, Hearty Lunch
  • Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximately)
  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 200–250g)
  • Calories: 500 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
  • Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Notes

Meat Doneness: Adjust grilling time according to your preferred level of doneness. For precision, use a meat thermometer (130°F/54°C for medium-rare).
Resting is Key: Allowing the meat to rest helps redistribute juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful sandwich.
Customizations:
Swap provolone for your favorite melting cheese or omit if preferred.
Experiment with additional toppings like pickles or a spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute traditional rolls with gluten-free bread to suit dietary needs.
Leftovers: Leftover tri-tip can be repurposed in salads, wraps, or tacos for another meal.
Keyword Tri-Tip Sandwich, Grilled Beef Sandwich, Caramelized Onion Sandwich, Barbecue Sandwich, Game Day Recipe, American Cuisine, Hearty Lunch