Forget the grill — this Air Fryer Tri Tip delivers the same smoky crust and juicy pink center in a fraction of the time. With just five pantry staples, you’ll get steakhouse-quality flavor straight from your air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights or post-workout protein dinners — no marinating overnight required.
There’s something deeply satisfying about slicing into a perfectly cooked tri tip — that beautiful pink center, the smoky crust, and the burst of flavor in every bite. But what if you could get that same steakhouse perfection right from your air fryer, in just 20 minutes? That’s where this Air Fryer Tri Tip recipe comes in — it’s quick, foolproof, and absolutely delicious.
I’ve tested this method over and over, and it never fails. The air fryer locks in the juices while crisping the edges for that irresistible sear we all love. No need for a grill or oven preheat — just season, cook, and serve. For the perfect protein-packed dinner, I often pair this with my 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain guide — it’s an easy way to round out your macros while keeping meals exciting and full of variety.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: you only need five ingredients — tri tip roast, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. That’s it. Yet the result tastes like you’ve been tending a smoker all afternoon. I use my Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) to evenly coat the meat — it’s heat-resistant and perfect for quick prep.
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s high in protein, full of flavor, and ready before you can finish your post-workout stretch, this Air Fryer Tri Tip is your new go-to. It’s the kind of meal that makes healthy eating feel effortless — juicy, balanced, and satisfying every single time.
Explore the Steps
Ingredients & Prep
What You’ll Need for the Perfect Air Fryer Tri Tip
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 1.5–2 lb tri tip roast (trimmed of excess fat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of steak seasoning for extra depth.
Pro Tip: Bring your tri tip to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking — this ensures even doneness and keeps the center tender.
How to Prep the Tri Tip
- Pat the roast dry. Use a paper towel to remove surface moisture — this helps the crust form beautifully in the air fryer.
- Brush with oil. Using your Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack), coat the roast evenly with olive oil. This creates a golden sear and locks in moisture.
- Season generously. Rub in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The key is coverage — every inch should be seasoned.
- Preheat your air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes to mimic that instant grill heat.
- Place the tri tip fat-side up in the air fryer basket for optimal airflow and even browning.
If you’re tracking macros or portion sizes, the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale is a must-have — it’s compact, easy to clean, and keeps meal prep consistent.
Tools You’ll Need
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – for flipping and removing the roast without scratching your air fryer basket.
- Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – accurate measurements for your ingredients.
- Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife – perfect for slicing the roast cleanly after resting.
- Air fryer – any 5-quart or larger model will work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions (How to Cook Air Fryer Tri Tip)
Cooking tri tip in the air fryer is all about timing and temperature. The goal? A perfectly seared crust with a tender, juicy interior. Here’s exactly how to do it — no guesswork, no stress.
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This quick step ensures the tri tip starts cooking immediately upon contact, locking in those juices.
Coach’s Tip (Sophie-style): Preheating your air fryer is like preheating a skillet — it’s what gives you that irresistible, charred crust on the outside.
Step 2: Place the Tri Tip in the Basket
Carefully place the seasoned roast in the air fryer basket, fat side up, so the rendered fat bastes the meat as it cooks. Avoid overcrowding — the air needs space to circulate for even cooking.
If your tri tip is large, you can cut it in half to fit. Use your TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs to handle it safely without piercing the meat and losing those flavorful juices.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry the tri tip at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F–135°F (54°C–57°C)
- For medium, cook until it reaches 140°F–145°F (60°C–63°C)
Use the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale or a meat thermometer to check your progress. Every air fryer model varies slightly, so trust the internal temp more than the clock.
Step 4: Rest Before Slicing
Once done, remove the tri tip and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. This is non-negotiable — it allows the juices to redistribute so every slice stays moist.
Pro Tip: Cover loosely with foil while resting to keep it warm without trapping steam.
Then, grab your Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife and slice thinly against the grain — that’s how you get those tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces like in a steakhouse.
Step 5: Optional – Make a Quick Chimichurri
If you want to go next-level, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped parsley, garlic, and chili flakes. Drizzle it over the slices for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Your NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) makes this step effortless — quick, even, and smooth every time.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Air Fryer Tri Tip with crispy veggie sides or light, protein-rich recipes from the site — like these favorites:
- Simple Cottage Cheese Flatbread (Air Fryer)
- 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Potato Skins
- Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip
Together, they make a balanced, high-protein meal that’s both satisfying and easy to clean up — ideal for weeknight dinners or post-training recovery meals.
Nutrition & Benefits of Air Fryer Tri Tip
This Air Fryer Tri Tip isn’t just a flavor win — it’s a powerhouse of lean protein and essential nutrients, perfect for anyone focused on muscle recovery, strength, or simply eating well without overcomplicating things.
Here’s the full breakdown per 4-ounce (113g) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 235 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Iron | 2.5mg |
| Zinc | 4mg |
(Values may vary slightly depending on the cut and seasoning.)
Why This Recipe Is a Smart Choice
1. High in Protein, Low in Carbs
Tri tip is naturally lean, offering over 30g of protein per serving — a great choice for athletes, gym-goers, and anyone following a high-protein, low-carb plan. According to Harvard Health, protein-rich meals like lean beef can help build muscle, manage appetite, and support fat loss by improving satiety and recovery.
2. Air Frying Keeps It Light and Clean
Traditional roasting or grilling often requires extra oil or butter. The air fryer uses just a tablespoon of olive oil for a similar crisp texture — meaning less fat, fewer calories, and easier cleanup.
3. Packed with Essential Nutrients
Beef is an excellent source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc, all of which are critical for energy metabolism and immune health. Combined with olive oil’s heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, this meal supports overall vitality and performance.
4. Balanced for Post-Workout Recovery
After intense training, your body needs amino acids to rebuild muscle. Pairing this tri tip with a carb-based side — like roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa — helps replenish glycogen while promoting faster muscle repair.
Health Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized nutrition advice.
Make It a Macro-Friendly Meal
For a well-rounded, balanced plate:
- Add greens like sautéed spinach or grilled asparagus.
- Include a healthy carb such as roasted potatoes or rice.
- Top with a spoonful of chimichurri for antioxidants and freshness.
For more meal inspiration, check out these protein-packed ideas:
- Cottage Cheese Ice Cream for a post-dinner protein dessert.
- One-Bowl Greek Yogurt Brownies as a satisfying sweet fix that supports your goals.
5-Ingredient Air Fryer Tri Tip – Juicy, Simple & Protein-Packed!
This juicy air fryer tri tip recipe delivers steakhouse flavor in just 20 minutes using only five ingredients. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a perfectly seared crust — ideal for busy nights or a quick high-protein meal. Top it with a fresh chimichurri sauce for extra color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner / Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
1.5–2 lb tri tip roast (trimmed of excess fat)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
(Optional) 1 tsp smoked paprika or steak seasoning
(Optional) Fresh chimichurri sauce for serving
Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a perfect crust.
Step 2 – Prepare the Tri Tip
Pat the roast dry with a paper towel. Brush it with olive oil, then rub in garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3 – Cook the Tri Tip
Place the roast fat side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches:
130°F–135°F (54°C–57°C) for medium-rare
140°F–145°F (60°C–63°C) for medium
Step 4 – Rest Before Slicing
Transfer the roast to a cutting board and rest for 10 minutes under loose foil to retain juices.
Step 5 – Slice and Serve
Slice thinly against the grain and drizzle with fresh chimichurri sauce before serving.
Notes
Bring the meat to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
For extra flavor, marinate the tri tip 2–4 hours before air frying.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crisp edges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Serving Suggestions & FAQs
Once your Air Fryer Tri Tip has rested and is sliced, it’s time to enjoy it at its best. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a post-workout protein meal, this versatile recipe fits right in.
Serving Suggestions
1. Classic Steak Plate
Serve slices of tri tip with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of chimichurri. The fresh herbs and acidity balance the rich, meaty flavor perfectly.
2. Protein-Packed Meal Prep
Slice the tri tip thinly and portion it into meal prep containers with quinoa, green beans, and a side of Cottage Cheese Flatbread Chips. It stays tender for up to 4 days in the fridge and reheats beautifully in the air fryer for just 3 minutes at 350°F.
3. High-Protein Sandwich or Wrap
Use the leftovers in a warm Cottage Cheese Wrap layered with fresh spinach and a spoonful of Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip. It’s a quick, balanced lunch that keeps you full for hours.
4. Power Bowl Style
Build a “steak bowl” with tri tip slices, roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado. Add a drizzle of Greek yogurt sauce for a macro-friendly, creamy finish.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked tri tip slices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to revive the crispy edges without drying out the meat.
For easy slicing and portioning, the Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife gives you perfect control, and the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale helps you measure exact servings for meal prep accuracy.
Recommended Products
- Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – for even basting and easy cleanup.
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – secure grip for flipping without damage.
- NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) – perfect for quick sauces or marinades.
These tools make healthy cooking more efficient and enjoyable — the kind of small upgrades that make meal prep feel effortless.
FAQs
How long should I cook tri tip in the air fryer for medium-rare?
Cook for 15–18 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. Always use a thermometer and aim for 130°F–135°F (54°C–57°C) internal temperature.
Can I marinate the tri tip before air frying?
Yes, you can marinate it for 2–4 hours in olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce. Just pat it dry before air frying to maintain that perfect sear.
What size air fryer works best for tri tip?
A 5-quart or larger air fryer fits a 1.5–2 lb roast comfortably without crowding, ensuring even airflow and cooking.
How do I keep the tri tip from drying out?
Let the meat rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps every bite tender.
Author’s Signature
Healthy cooking doesn’t have to be complicated — or bland. With just a few simple ingredients and smart tools, you can enjoy steakhouse flavor in under 30 minutes.
Make It Yours. — Sophie Bennett
Notes & External Links
For more healthy, high-protein recipe inspiration and step-by-step visuals, follow our Pinterest boards:
