Are you looking for a simple yet impressive dinner recipe that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This crock pot tri tip recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings. It’s a healthy meal, easily customizable, and a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and effortless. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound tri-tip roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Tri Tip
Pat the tri-tip roast dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the tri-tip, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Step 2: Searing (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tri-tip on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Place the seared (or unseared) tri-tip in your slow cooker. Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) around the roast.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your roast. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) for optimal tenderness.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, remove the tri-tip from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Slice the tri-tip against the grain and serve.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Tri Tip:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the roast for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your tri-tip is cooked to perfection.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Make a delicious pan sauce: If you seared the tri-tip, deglaze the pan with a little red wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits for an extra flavorful sauce.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Tri Tip: Add more garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano.
- BBQ Tri Tip: Use your favorite BBQ sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Spicy Tri Tip: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the spice rub.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the roast and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This crock pot tri-tip recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!