Air Fryer Santa Maria Tri-Tip Roast with Herb Spice Rub
This air fryer tri-tip roast transforms Trader Joe's Santa Maria cut into a perfectly seasoned, juicy centerpiece in under 30 minutes. The herb and spice rub featuring rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika creates a flavorful crust while the air fryer delivers even cooking and tender results. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want restaurant-quality beef without the grill. The quick cooking method makes this an ideal choice for busy households seeking a premium protein option.
Ingredients
- 1 Trader Joe's Santa Maria Tri-Tip Roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer for 3-5 minutes
- 2
Remove roast from plastic bag and place on cutting board
- 3
Combine spice rub ingredients in small bowl
- 4
Rub olive oil over tri-tip, then coat with seasoning mixture
- 5
Place tri-tip in air fryer basket ensuring it doesn't touch sides, cutting into smaller pieces if needed
- 6
Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time
- 7
Check internal temperature with meat thermometer
- 8
Remove from air fryer and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving
Tips
Cut roast into smaller pieces if it doesn't fit comfortably in your air fryer basket without touching the sides.
Let the meat rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness - visual cues can be misleading with air frying.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked tri-tip for up to 3-4 days in airtight container
Season roast up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor penetration
Slice against the grain and serve immediately while warm
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the resting period to avoid dry, tough meat
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Sirloin tip or top round work well, but adjust timing based on thickness and desired doneness.
What if my tri-tip is frozen?
Thaw completely in refrigerator before cooking. Frozen meat will cook unevenly and may not reach proper internal temperature safely.
How long will leftovers keep?
Properly stored cooked tri-tip will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.