Tri Tip Chili Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Bold and Hearty Flavor

Tri tip chili recipes are your ticket to a rich, smoky, and unforgettable dish that blends the tenderness of tri tip beef with the zesty kick of chili. If you’re craving something comforting yet bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This long-form guide will walk you through everything—from ingredients and cooking methods to expert tips and FAQs—ensuring your next pot of chili is nothing short of spectacular.

Tri Tip Chili Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Bold and Hearty Flavor

Recipe by Chili RecipesCourse: lunchCuisine: American, SouthwesternDifficulty: Easy to Moderate

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories

400

kcal

Discover 5 irresistible tri tip chili recipes packed with bold, smoky flavor. Includes crock pot tips, Big Green Egg methods, and expert tricks!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs tri tip, cut into cubes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)

• Optional: 1 green bell pepper, diced

• Optional: 1 jalapeño, sliced

Directions

• Season and Sear:Season tri tip cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the tri tip until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté Vegetables:In the same pot, add diced onions and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add bell pepper and jalapeño if using, and cook another 2 minutes.
• Add Tomatoes and Spices:Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
• Simmer:Return tri tip to the pot. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, until meat is tender.
• Add Beans:Stir in black beans and kidney beans. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
• Serve:Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

• For extra smoky flavor, try smoking the tri tip before adding it to the chili.
  Adjust cayenne and jalapeño to control the heat level.
  This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
  Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months.
  Serve with cornbread, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added richness.

1. Introduction to Tri Tip Chili Recipes

Tri tip chili recipes bring a gourmet twist to a classic comfort food. Whether you love bold spices or tender cuts of beef, this recipe delivers. Moreover, combining tri tip with chili spices results in unmatched depth and flavor.

Additionally, using tri tip elevates traditional chili. As a result, you get a dish that’s both hearty and refined. With a few kitchen staples and some expert guidance, making tri tip chili becomes easy and enjoyable.

2. Why Choose Tri Tip for Chili?

Tri tip chili recipes stand out because tri tip is a uniquely flavorful cut. Unlike ground beef, tri tip offers better texture and absorbs spices well. Therefore, your chili becomes rich and robust with every bite.

Furthermore, tri tip retains moisture during long cooking. This makes it ideal for slow-cooked dishes like chili. Combined with the right spices, the meat’s marbling enhances the dish’s savory profile.

Also, tri tip is versatile. You can smoke it, grill it, or sear it before simmering. So, you gain flexibility in preparation while keeping flavor a priority.

3. Ingredients for Tri Tip Chili

Tri tip chili recipes call for simple, flavorful ingredients. To achieve the best results, use fresh herbs and quality meat. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs tri tip (cubed or shredded)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (14 oz each)
• 1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
• 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
• 2 cups beef broth

Spices and Seasoning:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 jalapeño (sliced)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• A dash of Worcestershire sauce

These ingredients combine to form a hearty, aromatic tri tip chili. Notably, this blend is customizable. So, feel free to adjust heat and sweetness to your liking.

4. Step-by-Step Tri Tip Chili Recipe

Tri tip chili recipes are easy to follow with this step-by-step guide. Transitioning from raw ingredients to a simmering pot of goodness is straightforward.

Step 1: Prepare the Tri Tip

Season the tri tip with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Then, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Sear the tri tip until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Additionally, add bell pepper and jalapeño if using.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all spices. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return tri tip to the pot. Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 5: Add Beans and Finish

In the final 30 minutes, stir in the black and kidney beans. Continue to simmer until meat is fork-tender.

This classic stovetop version is perfect for weekend meals and meal prep. Notably, the tri tip’s texture shines when slow-simmered.

5. Tri Tip Chili Crock Pot Version

Tri tip chili crock pot methods are ideal for busy days. The slow cooker ensures rich flavor with minimal effort.

Instructions:

1. Sear the seasoned tri tip in a skillet.
2. Transfer to a crock pot.
3. Add all remaining ingredients (except beans).
4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Add beans in the last hour.

Because this method is hands-off, it’s ideal for weeknight meals. Additionally, the slow heat develops deeper flavors without much oversight.

6. Tri Tip on Big Green Egg (BGE Tri Tip) for Chili

Tri tip on Big Green Egg adds a smoky twist. Also called BGE tri tip, this method infuses the meat with charcoal and wood flavor before adding it to chili.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Big Green Egg to 250°F with indirect heat.
2. Season tri tip with your favorite rub.
3. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours until internal temp reaches 135°F.
4. Let rest, then cube or shred.
5. Add to chili during the simmering phase.

Notably, BGE tri tip creates a complex flavor base. As a result, the final chili gains a delightful smoky aroma and depth.

7. Variations: Chili Recipe Tri Tip Styles

Chili recipe tri tip versions vary widely. With different peppers, beans, and spices, you can create regional or unique twists.

Texas-Style:

No beans, extra chili powder, and a chunkier consistency.

Southwest Style:

Add corn, chipotle peppers, and lime juice for zing.

Spicy BBQ Style:

Incorporate BBQ sauce and hot sauce for a tangy heat.

Because tri tip is versatile, these styles adapt easily. Furthermore, mixing flavors helps you cater to various palates.

8. Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks

Tri tip chili recipes benefit from these expert tips:

• Sear First: Always brown the meat before simmering. This locks in juices.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing spices before adding broth brings out depth.
• Simmer Low: Long, low simmering ensures the tri tip becomes tender.
• Finish with Acid: Add a splash of vinegar or lime to brighten the flavor.

Also, taste as you go. Adjusting seasoning gradually prevents overpowering spice levels.

9. Storage and Reheating

Tri tip chili recipes store and reheat well. In fact, flavors often deepen overnight.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Use freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add broth if too thick.

Because of tri tip’s texture, it holds up beautifully after freezing. Therefore, it’s perfect for batch cooking.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use leftover tri tip for chili?
Yes, leftover tri tip works great. Dice or shred it and add during the last simmering phase.

What makes tri tip better than ground beef?
Tri tip has superior texture and flavor retention, especially in long-simmered dishes like chili.

Is tri tip chili spicy?
That depends on your spice level. You can adjust heat with cayenne, jalapeño, or hot sauce.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sear using the Sauté function, then pressure cook for 35 minutes.

What sides go with tri tip chili?
Cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, and sour cream are all excellent choices.

is tri tip goog for chili?

Yes, tri tip is excellent for chili, and here’s why:

Why Tri Tip Works Well in Chili:

1. Rich Flavor: Tri tip has a deep, beefy taste that stands up well to bold chili spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Tender Texture: When cooked low and slow (like in a chili), tri tip becomes incredibly tender while still holding its shape—better than ground beef or stew meat in many cases.
3. Versatility: You can sear, grill, or even smoke the tri tip before adding it to the chili, giving the final dish a unique depth of flavor (especially in smoked or BGE-style chili).
4. Juiciness: Thanks to its marbling, tri tip stays moist during long simmering times, which prevents the chili from drying out.

Pro Tip:

Cut tri tip into cubes or shred it after smoking or slow-cooking for maximum flavor distribution. Searing it before adding to your pot also locks in juices and adds a rich, caramelized base.

Bottom line: Tri tip takes chili from everyday to extraordinary. It’s a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food.

Would you like a quick comparison of tri tip vs. other meats in chili (like brisket or ground beef)?

can i use tri tip for chili?

Yes, you can absolutely use tri tip for chili—and it’s a fantastic choice!

Why Tri Tip Is Great for Chili:

• Flavorful: Tri tip has a rich, beefy flavor that holds up well to bold chili spices.
• Tender: When simmered slowly or cooked in a crock pot, tri tip becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Versatile: You can cube it, shred it, or even smoke it before adding to your chili for extra depth.
• Less Greasy: Compared to ground beef, tri tip gives you a heartier bite without excess grease.

How to Use It:

• Cube it raw and sear it first for maximum flavor.
• Slow simmer for 1.5–2 hours on the stove or 7–8 hours in a crock pot.
• Shred leftover tri tip and stir it into chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Whether you’re making classic chili or a smoky twist with BBQ flavors, tri tip adds a gourmet upgrade to your recipe.

Want a quick 3-ingredient marinade for tri tip before adding it to chili?

can you use tri tip meat in making chili?

Yes, you can definitely use tri tip meat in making chili, and it’s actually a fantastic upgrade from traditional ground beef.

Why Use Tri Tip in Chili?

• Rich, Beefy Flavor: Tri tip has more depth than ground beef, giving your chili a savory, steak-like quality.
• Tender When Slow-Cooked: When simmered or slow-cooked, tri tip becomes incredibly tender while still holding its shape.
• Versatile Prep Options: You can cube, shred, grill, or even smoke tri tip before adding it to your chili for extra flavor layers.
• Less Grease: Compared to fatty ground meats, tri tip yields a cleaner, meatier bite.

How to Use It:

1. Cut into cubes or shred (if pre-cooked).
2. Sear it first to lock in juices and add flavor.
3. Simmer low and slow with your chili base for 1.5–2 hours (or use a slow cooker).
4. Add beans and finishing touches near the end.

The result? A hearty, bold chili with melt-in-your-mouth bites of tri tip beef.

Would you like a simple tri tip chili recipe to try it out?

how many calories in tri tip chili​?

The number of calories in tri tip chili depends on the ingredients and portion size, but here’s a general estimate:

Calories in One Serving of Tri Tip Chili (about 1.5 cups):

➡️ Total: ~770 calories per serving

To Reduce Calories:

• Use less oil (or omit and use non-stick spray).
• Cut tri tip portion to 4 oz (~240 kcal).
• Use low-sodium or homemade broth.
• Reduce or skip beans if on a low-carb/keto diet.

how to cut tri tip for chili?

Cutting tri tip properly for chili ensures your beef turns out tender, flavorful, and easy to eat. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

How to Cut Tri Tip for Chili

1. Start with Cooked or Raw Tri Tip

You can cut tri tip before or after cooking, depending on your recipe:

• Before cooking: Cube it raw if you’re simmering it in the chili from the start.
• After cooking (e.g., smoked or roasted): Slice or shred for maximum tenderness.

For Raw Tri Tip (Cubed Chili Style)

1. Trim excess fat and silver skin from the meat.
2. Find the grain (muscle fibers). Tri tip has two different grain directions, so look closely.
3. Cut across the grain into ¾- to 1-inch slices.
4. Then dice those slices into ¾- to 1-inch cubes.

Why cut against the grain? It shortens muscle fibers, making the meat more tender when cooked.

For Cooked Tri Tip (Shredded or Sliced Chili Style)

1. Let the tri tip rest after cooking.
2. Slice against the grain if you want chunks.
3. Or shred with forks if it’s very tender (great for smoked or slow-cooked tri tip).

Pro Tip:

If you’re using smoked or grilled tri tip, add it toward the end of the simmering phase to preserve its texture and smoky flavor.

why do use tri tip in chili?

Using tri tip in chili is a game-changer—and here’s exactly why it’s such a smart (and delicious) choice:

Why Use Tri Tip in Chili?

1. Superior Flavor

Tri tip is a well-marbled, triangular cut from the bottom sirloin. It has a deep, beefy flavor that holds up beautifully to bold chili spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Compared to ground beef, tri tip brings more steak-like richness to every bite.

2. Amazing Texture

When simmered slowly, tri tip becomes tender and juicy, yet holds its shape. Unlike ground meat, which can turn mushy, tri tip offers bite-sized chunks of hearty, satisfying meat.

Perfect for thick, chunky, rustic-style chili.

3. Versatility in Cooking

You can:

• Cube it raw and simmer it low and slow,
• Smoke it on a Big Green Egg for added depth,
• Grill or roast it, then shred or dice it for chili.

This flexibility lets you infuse the chili with unique flavors, from smoky to BBQ-style.

4. Healthier, Cleaner Bite

Tri tip is leaner than many cuts used in chili (like chuck roast or 80/20 ground beef), so it delivers a meaty, satisfying dish without excess grease.

In Short:

Tri tip makes chili taste like slow-cooked steak stew—bold, rich, and memorable.

why to use tri tip in chili?

Using tri tip in chili offers several great benefits that make your chili extra flavorful and satisfying. Here’s why you should consider it:

Why Use Tri Tip in Chili?

1. Rich, Beefy Flavor
   Tri tip is known for its deep, robust beef flavor that stands up well to the bold spices in chili. It adds a steak-like taste that’s more complex than regular ground beef.
2. Tender, Juicy Texture
   When cooked low and slow, tri tip becomes tender yet holds its shape nicely. Unlike ground meat that can get mushy, tri tip gives you hearty, satisfying chunks of meat.
3. Versatility
   You can cube tri tip raw and simmer it in your chili, or smoke/grill it first for an added smoky dimension before adding it to the pot.
4. Lean but Marbled
   Tri tip has a good balance of lean meat and marbling, which keeps it juicy without excess fat, resulting in a cleaner but still rich chili.
5. Elevates the Dish
   Using tri tip gives your chili a gourmet twist, making it more special and impressive for family dinners or guests.

In short, tri tip adds bold flavor, great texture, and versatility that make your chili stand out from the usual versions.

Want me to help you with a tri tip chili recipe?

11. Conclusion:Tri Tip Chili recipes

Tri tip chili recipes are a flavorful, hearty upgrade to your typical chili routine. With a range of methods—from tri tip chili crock pot recipes to smoking tri tip on Big Green Egg—you can adapt to your cooking style. The combination of tender meat, bold spices, and customizable heat makes this dish a winner every time.

So whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for the week, or just craving something comforting, tri tip chili recipes delivers. Try it today and elevate your chili game with this delicious twist.

Looking for a chili recipe that’s bold, hearty, and unforgettable?
Discover the magic of Tri Tip Chili recipes — where tender beef meets smoky, spicy goodness!

• In this ultimate guide, you’ll find:
• Easy step-by-step instructions
• Crock pot & stovetop methods
• Smoked tri tip version (Big Green Egg!)
• Flavor-packed variations
• Expert cooking tips

Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
📖 Read the full recipe now and spice up your next dinner:
🔗 [https://tastyrecipebook.info/]