Imagine biting into a Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich layered with smoky, tender beef, melted cheese, and ribbons of golden caramelized onions. This sandwich is all about steakhouse flavor made easily at home, combining the unbeatable juiciness of tri tip with crunchy toasted rolls, creamy cheese, and a hint of smoky sweetness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting game day, or just craving something incredibly satisfying, this Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich seamlessly brings both comfort and wow-factor to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this grilled masterpiece are refreshingly simple, yet each one brings something essential to the table — from savory richness to color and texture. Gather everything before you begin, so each bite can be packed with flavor.
- Grilled Tri Tip Steak: The star of the sandwich—tender, juicy, and packs punchy beef flavor when sliced thin against the grain.
- Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon is all it takes to coax out lovely caramelization in your onions and peppers.
- Yellow Onion: Go for a large onion, sliced thin—it creates those irresistible sweet, golden tangles.
- Red Bell Pepper (optional): Adds colorful crunch and a hint of sweetness, totally optional but highly recommended.
- Hoagie Rolls or Sandwich Buns: Choose sturdy rolls or buns to catch all the juicy goodness without getting soggy.
- Provolone or Pepper Jack Cheese: Melty cheese is non-negotiable—it pulls everything together, so pick your favorite!
- Mayonnaise or Garlic Aioli (optional): Adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel; garlic aioli takes things up a notch.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season generously; it makes each flavor pop.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A handful of chopped parsley freshens up the whole dish and looks beautiful as a garnish.
How to Make Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich
Step 1: Grill and Rest the Tri Tip
Start with a beautifully seasoned tri tip steak, grilling it over medium-high heat until it reaches your preferred doneness (medium-rare is the go-to for juicy slices). After grilling, let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes. This gives all those flavorful juices time to redistribute, ensuring every bite of your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich is succulent and not dry. When ready to assemble, slice it thinly against the grain.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions (and Peppers)
While your steak is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring often. Let the onions cook low and slow until they soften and take on a rich golden hue — about 10-12 minutes. If you’re adding bell peppers, toss them in halfway through for a tender yet slightly crisp texture and pop of color.
Step 3: Toast the Rolls
Slice your hoagie rolls or buns lengthwise, keeping one side attached if possible. Toast the insides on a skillet, grill, or under the broiler until they turn lightly golden and just a bit crunchy. This step keeps the bread from getting soggy while adding an irresistible texture to your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich.
Step 4: Layer and Melt the Cheese
Spread mayonnaise or garlic aioli (if using) on each roll. Pile in layers of sliced tri tip, nestle in the caramelized onions (and peppers), and top each sandwich with a slice of provolone or pepper jack. Pop the open sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and melts, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the cheese is melty and irresistible, close up each sandwich and give it a final sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich hot and enjoy every boldly flavored bite!
How to Serve Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley or even thinly sliced green onions brings a flash of color and a bright, herby finish to your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich. You can also try a dash of cracked black pepper or an extra drizzle of garlic aioli right before serving.
Side Dishes
Round things out with crispy baked fries, potato chips, or even a zippy coleslaw. For a lighter pairing, a mixed green salad with a punchy vinaigrette helps balance the savory richness of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich into halves or thirds and spear them with toothpicks for party platters or game-day spreads. For a cozy twist, serve on mini slider rolls for bite-sized versions that are just as satisfying and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover tri tip or assembled sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the bread, meat, and toppings separately for best texture if possible.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked tri tip slices: layer parchment or wax paper between the slices, seal in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Leave the bread and fresh garnishes out until you’re ready to enjoy, as they don’t freeze as well.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the meat and onions gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, then reassemble your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich with cheese and finish under the broiler or in the oven until melty. Toast the rolls fresh for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak if I don’t have tri tip?
Absolutely! While tri tip gives this sandwich its signature flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with flank steak or sirloin in a pinch — just remember to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
What’s the best cheese for a Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich?
Provolone and pepper jack are classic choices because they melt beautifully and pair well with the steak, but Swiss or mozzarella also work for a milder vibe. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Can I make this sandwich ahead for a party?
Yes, it’s a great party option! Prep the tri tip, onions, and peppers in advance. Toast and assemble the sandwiches just before serving, then melt the cheese under the broiler for a fresh, gooey finish.
Is it possible to cook the tri tip in the oven instead of grilling?
Definitely. You can roast the tri tip in the oven at 425°F until it reaches your preferred doneness, then rest and slice as usual. While you’ll miss out on some smoky grill flavor, the sandwich will still be delicious.
How thin should I slice the tri tip?
Aim for slices about 1/4-inch thick, cutting directly against the grain. This keeps the meat tender and easy to bite into, giving you the best eating experience for your Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to grilling tri tip or a lifelong fan, this Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich will win you over with its juicy steak, sweet onions, and melty cheese all tucked into a toasted roll. Give it a try — your taste buds will be cheering, and it just might become your new favorite way to enjoy steak at home!
PrintGrilled Tri Tip Sandwich Recipe
This Grilled Tri Tip Sandwich recipe brings the bold flavors of a steakhouse into a handheld meal with tender tri tip, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese on a toasted roll. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Sautéing, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
Grilled Tri Tip Steak:
- 1½ to 2 pounds
Onion and Bell Pepper Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
- 4 slices provolone or pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or garlic aioli (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tri Tip: Grill the tri tip steak to desired doneness and thinly slice it against the grain.
- Sauté the Onions and Peppers: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onions and bell peppers until caramelized.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hoagie rolls, layer with sliced tri tip, onion and pepper mixture, cheese, and optional aioli.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler to melt the cheese.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and enjoy hot.
Notes
- You can customize the sandwich with additional toppings like pickles or sautéed mushrooms.
- For added heat, consider adding a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
