How Long To Cook Steak Tips On Grill (BBQ Perfection)

Steak tips are a delicious and tender cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. The key to achieving BBQ perfection is knowing how long to cook steak tips on the grill. By following these grilling tips and using the correct cooking time, you can ensure that your steak tips are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

Key Takeaways:

• Grilling steak tips requires knowing the best cooking time to achieve BBQ perfection.
• Steak tips are a unique cut of beef that offers tenderness and flavor.
• Choose quality steak, such as flap meat or USDA Prime grade, for the best results.
• Prepare the grill by preheating it to the correct temperature and using olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Properly prepare and season your steak tips before grilling for optimal flavor.

What Are Steak Tips?

Steak tips are slices of beef that are cut from the sirloin area of the cow. While some people use the term “steak tips” to refer to any chunks of meat cut from a steak, they are actually their own cut of meat. They are known for their tenderness and flavor, making them a popular choice for grilling. Steak tips can come from various muscles around the sirloin and round, and they are often labeled as sirloin steak tips or sirloin tips. Other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak, can also be used for steak tips.

When it comes to steak tips, the type of beef cut can vary. Sirloin is a common cut used for steak tips, but other cuts such as flank steak or skirt steak can also be used. These different cuts have their own unique characteristics that can influence the tenderness and flavor of the steak tips.

Key Points:

• Steak tips are slices of beef cut from the sirloin area of the cow.
• They are known for their tenderness and flavor, making them a popular choice for grilling.
• Other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak, can also be used for steak tips.

Understanding the different cuts of beef that can be used for steak tips can help you make an informed choice when selecting the meat for your next grilling adventure.

Choosing Quality Steak

When it comes to grilling, the quality of the steak you choose can make a significant difference in the taste and tenderness of the final dish. To ensure you’re working with top-notch ingredients, follow these tips for selecting the perfect steak tips for grilling.

1. Look for Flap Meat

Flap meat, also known as sirloin bottom, is the ideal cut for steak tips. It offers excellent flavor and tenderness, making it a popular choice among grill enthusiasts. Look for meat labeled as flap meat or ask your butcher to cut you some steak tips from the sirloin bottom they have on hand.

2. Assess Appearance

When examining the meat, pay attention to its appearance. Look for steak tips with rich, vibrant color as it indicates freshness. The meat should have a moderate amount of marbling, which refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the muscle. Marbling is essential as it contributes to the tenderness and juiciness of the steak tips. Also, consider the fat content. Some fat is necessary for flavor, but excessive amounts can negatively impact the taste.

3. Opt for USDA Prime Grade

For the highest quality steak, seek out meat that is labeled as USDA Prime grade. This designation signifies that the meat has met stringent standards in terms of marbling, tenderness, and overall quality. While USDA Prime grade meat may be pricier, it is worth the investment for an exceptional grilling experience.

When you choose quality steak, such as flap meat from the sirloin bottom and USDA Prime grade, you set the foundation for a delicious and satisfying meal. The next step is properly preparing and grilling your steak tips to perfection.

Preparing the Grill

Before grilling your steak tips, it’s essential to properly prepare the grill. Follow these simple steps to ensure a successful grilling experience:

1. Brush the grates with olive oil: To prevent your steak tips from sticking to the grill, lightly brush the grates with olive oil. This will create a non-stick surface and enhance the flavor of your steak.
2. Preheat the grill: Set the grill temperature to a range between 450 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat will sear the steak tips and lock in their natural juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
3. Check the grill temperature: To verify that the grill has reached the desired temperature, hold your hand about 5 inches above the grates. You should feel a strong heat for about 2-3 seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand there for that long, the grill is ready.
4. Use a grill plate if needed: If your steak tips are small in size and may fall through the grill grates, place a grill plate on the grates. This will ensure that your steak tips stay safely on the grill without any risk of them going to waste.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll be ready to grill your steak tips to perfection. The next section will guide you on how to properly prepare and season your steak tips for the ultimate grilling experience.

Preparing and Seasoning

Before grilling your steak tips, it’s important to prepare them properly for maximum flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to ensure your steak tips are perfectly seasoned and ready to grill:

1. Dab the steak tips with a paper towel to remove any excess juices. This will help the steak tips sear correctly on the grill.

2. Allow the steak tips to come to room temperature as your grill heats up. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat.

3. Brush a small amount of olive oil on both sides of the steak tips to prevent sticking.

4. Season each side of the steak tips with salt, pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning. This enhances the flavor of the meat.

5. If desired, add minced garlic for an extra burst of flavor.

Once your steak tips are prepared and seasoned, they are ready to be grilled to perfection. The next section will provide you with expert grilling tips and techniques to ensure your steak tips turn out juicy and flavorful.

“Properly preparing and seasoning your steak tips before grilling is crucial for achieving that perfect flavor and tenderness. Take the time to remove any excess juices, bring the meat to room temperature, and season it generously. These simple steps can elevate your grilled steak tips from ordinary to extraordinary.” – Grilling expert

Favorite Steak Seasoning

If you’re looking for a flavorful steak seasoning blend to elevate the taste of your grilled steak tips, try this homemade recipe:

Mix all the ingredients together and store in an airtight container. This versatile seasoning blend adds a delicious savory flavor to your grilled steak tips.

Now that your steak tips are prepared and seasoned, it’s time to move on to the next section, where we’ll explore the best grilling tips and techniques to ensure your steak tips are cooked to perfection.

Grilling Tips and Techniques

To achieve the perfect steak tips on the grill, there are a few grilling tips and techniques to keep in mind. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, these tips will help you cook steak tips to perfection every time.

Marinade for Maximum Flavor

Consider marinating your steak tips for at least two hours or overnight to infuse them with delicious flavors. A marinade can consist of various ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful steak tips.

Mastering the Heat

Grilling steak tips requires mastering both direct and indirect heat. Start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Begin cooking the steak tips over direct heat to sear them and create a flavorful crust. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, then move the steak tips to indirect heat. This allows the center of the steak tips to cook through without burning the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the desired level of doneness.

Timing is Everything

The cooking time for steak tips will vary depending on their thickness and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, for medium-rare steak tips, grill them for 3-4 minutes per side over direct heat and an additional 4-6 minutes over indirect heat. Add or subtract cooking time based on your preference for rare, medium, or well-done steak tips.

Resting for Juicy Perfection

After grilling, let the steak tips rest for about 10 minutes before slicing or serving them. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak tip. Cover the steak tips loosely with foil during the resting period to keep them warm.

Grilling Tips and Techniques Summary:

By following these grilling tips and techniques, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with perfectly cooked steak tips. The marinade will add depth of flavor, while mastering the heat and timing will ensure optimal doneness. Don’t forget to let the steak tips rest before serving for juicy perfection. Happy grilling!

Common Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure that your grilled steak tips turn out perfectly, it’s important to avoid common grilling mistakes. By following these tips, you can ensure that your steak tips are cooked to perfection and packed with delicious flavor. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

Choosing Quality Meat

One of the most important factors in grilling a delicious steak is choosing quality meat. Opt for cuts that are well-marbled and labeled as USDA Prime grade for the best flavor and tenderness.

Drying Steaks before Seasoning

Before seasoning your steak tips, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture allows for better searing and ensures a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak.

Avoiding Excessive Flipping

While it may be tempting to constantly flip your steaks while grilling, it’s best to resist the urge. Flipping the steaks too often can prevent them from developing a nice sear and may result in dry meat. Instead, flip the steaks only once during the cooking process to achieve optimal flavor and juiciness.

Avoiding Lighter Fluid

If you’re using a charcoal grill, avoid using lighter fluid to ignite the coals. Lighter fluid can leave a chemical taste on your steak. Instead, opt for a chimney starter to safely and cleanly light your charcoal.

Allowing Steaks to Reach Room Temperature

Prior to grilling, allow your steak tips to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak and prevents the meat from seizing up when it hits the hot grill.

Using a Meat Thermometer

To ensure that your steak tips reach the desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer. This allows you to accurately monitor the internal temperature of the steak and achieve your preferred level of doneness, whether it’s rare, medium-rare, or well-done.

By avoiding these common grilling mistakes, you can elevate your steak tips to a new level of flavor and tenderness. Enjoy the perfect grilled steak every time by choosing quality meat, drying steaks before seasoning, flipping them correctly, avoiding lighter fluid, allowing them to come to room temperature, and using a meat thermometer. Happy grilling!

Conclusion

Grilled steak tips are the ultimate choice for BBQ perfection in any grilling season. With the right techniques and tips, you can achieve the perfect sear and enjoy a juicy flavor every time you cook steak tips on the grill.

To start, it’s crucial to select high-quality meat for the best results. Look for flap meat or sirloin bottom cuts, and opt for USDA Prime grade whenever possible. This ensures that you’re working with the finest ingredients, resulting in mouthwatering grilled steak tips.

Proper preparation and seasoning are key to getting that irresistible flavor. Removing excess juices, bringing the steaks to room temperature, and brushing them with a little olive oil prevents sticking and enhances the searing process. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning to elevate the taste.

When it comes to grilling the steak tips, consider marinating them beforehand for maximum flavor infusion. Start with direct heat to achieve a perfect sear on both sides, then move them to indirect heat to ensure they cook through evenly. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak tips and your desired doneness. Finally, allow the steak tips to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender and succulent bite.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply enjoying a summer evening, grilled steak tips are an excellent choice. With their delicious flavors, perfect sear, and juicy tenderness, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any grilling gathering. So fire up the grill, follow these tips, and savor the mouthwatering taste of perfectly cooked steak tips all season long.