Table of Contents
Looking to whip up a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in a snap? Your search ends here! This instant Pot Tri Tip recipe combines the rich, hearty flavors of a beef tri-tip roast with the magic of the pressure cooker, all while saving you time and effort. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or impressing guests, this foolproof guide ensures tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth.
If you’ve never tried cooking instant Pot Tri Tip in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker, prepare to have your expectations exceeded. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the tips, tricks, and techniques to master this dish and make it part of your regular kitchen repertoire.
Introduction
Author Notes
First, a little backstory—a Instant Pot Tri Tip roast holds a special place for many meat enthusiasts. Known for its triangular shape and bold, beefy flavors, instant Pot Tri Tip is loved for its versatility. You can grill, bake, or, in this case, pressure-cook it for maximum tenderness and flavor.
I’ve adapted this recipe for busy cooks like you who want something quick but don’t want to skimp on quality. With just a few ingredients and an Instant Pot Tri Tip, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Instant Pot Tri Tip becomes incredibly tender after pressure-cooking in the Instant Pot.
- Perfect for beginners or pros looking for an easy yet impressive dish.
- Saves time with faster cooking compared to traditional oven roasting.
Now that you’re ready let’s get into the delicious details!
Instant Pot Tri Tip Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
Here’s everything you’ll need for your Instant Pot Tri Tip roast recipe.
- 2.5 lbs beef tri-tip roast (look for marbled cuts for maximum flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional additions for extra flavor:
- 0.5 cup red wine
- Fresh rosemary sprigs

Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to make your Instant Pot Tri Tip at home:
Step 1: Prep Your Roast
- Bring the tri-tip roast to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes).
- Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub these spices into the meat for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
- Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Heat olive oil until shimmering.
- Sear the tri-tip roast on each side for 2–3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Base
- Add the onion slices and minced garlic to the Pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom (this adds tons of flavor).
Step 4: Pressure Cook
- Return the tri-tip roast to the Instant Pot. Add Worcestershire sauce and optional wine. Toss in rosemary if using.
- Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” mode on high pressure for 35 minutes.
Step 5: Natural Release
- Once the cooking time has finished, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 to 15 minutes before proceeding. After that, carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Transfer your tri-tip to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve with your choice of sides, and drizzle any leftover juices from the Pot over the meat.
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins (plus 10 mins for pressure release) | Total Time: 60 mins |
Servings: 6 |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Note
- After removing the roast, switch the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode for an extra-rich sauce and reduce the remaining liquid into a luscious gravy.
Variations/Substitutions
- Add vegetables: Toss in baby carrots or small potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
- Substitute broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth if beef broth isn’t available.
- Different cuts: No tri-tip? Use a chuck roast or brisket instead—though cooking times may vary.
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot or any pressure cooker
- Tongs for easy handling of the roast
- A sharp carving knife for slicing the meat
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
320 | 20g | 3g | 28g |
Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Instant Pot Tri Tip with hearty mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh side salad. For a low-carb option, consider roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
Cooking tri-tip in the Instant Pot isn’t just about making dinner—it’s about creating a meal your family and friends will rave about. The satisfaction of preparing such a flavorful and tender dish with minimal effort will have you reaching for your Instant Pot Tri Tip more often. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this guide has provided all the necessary information to successfully cook a beef tri-tip roast in an Instant Pot Tri Tip or pressure cooker. From choosing the right cut of meat to preparing it with flavorful spices, searing it for a beautiful crust, and pressure-cooking it for maximum tenderness – you now have all the tools to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress any crowd.
With its versatility and time-saving benefits, tri-tip is a great addition to your weekly meal plan. And with this easy and delicious Instant Pot Tri Tip recipe, you can enjoy a tender and juicy tri-tip roast in just 60 minutes. Give this recipe a shot – your taste buds will definitely appreciate the incredible flavors! Remember to get creative with your sides and garnishes, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of this recipe. Happy cooking!
Keep exploring, learning, and trying new recipes. The possibilities are endless with an Instant Pot by your side.
Happy cooking! 🍴
FAQ
Can I use a different pressure cooker?
Yes, any brand or type of pressure cooker will work for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do I need to sear the meat first?
Searing adds an extra layer of flavor and helps the meat retain its juices during cooking. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still have delicious results.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store sliced tri-tip in an airtight container or freezer bag with some juices to keep it moist. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop.
Should I marinate the tri-tip?
While it’s not required, marinating the roast overnight can add even more flavor. Try a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can use a slow cooker as an alternative. It will take longer (about 6–8 hours on low), but you’ll still get delicious results.
It’s your turn now to try out this recipe and enjoy the delicious results! If you enjoyed this guide and want access to more mouthwatering recipes, subscribe to our blog for weekly updates. Your Instant Pot has never worked this hard for you!