Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 1 lb (450 g) tri-tip steak
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (any brand you like)
Optional toppings or sides:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Lemon wedges
- Roasted vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Mashed potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Take the steak out of the fridge.
- Pat it dry with paper towels. This removes extra moisture.
- Rub olive oil evenly on both sides of the steak.
- In a small bowl, mix:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Rub this spice mix all over the steak. Press it gently so it sticks.
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Tip: Resting helps the steak cook evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Preheat for 5 minutes.
- Preheating ensures the steak gets a good crust.
Tip: Make sure the steak fits in the basket without touching the sides.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
- Brush 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce over both sides of the steak.
- Optional: Air fry for 1–2 more minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Tip: Don’t cook too long at this stage, or the steak will dry out.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
- Take the steak out of the air fryer.
- Place it on a cutting board.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
Tip: Resting keeps the steak juicy. Cutting too early will let the juices run out.
Step 5: Slice the Steak
- Look at the grain (the lines in the meat).
- Slice against the grain (perpendicular to the lines).
- Cut thin or thick slices depending on your preference.
Tip: Slicing against the grain makes the steak tender.
Step 6: Serve
- Arrange slices on a plate.
- Drizzle extra BBQ sauce if you like.
- Add optional toppings like fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve with your favorite sides: roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or corn.
