Introduction
When it comes to outdoor cooking, few things rival the joy of grilling steak tips. If you’re wondering how long to cook steak tips on grill, you’re in the right place. Here’s a quick guide:
- Medium-Rare: Grill for 4 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
- Medium: Grill for 5 minutes per side, aiming for 135-145°F.
- Medium-Well: Grill for 6 minutes per side, aiming for 145-155°F.
Grilling season is a feast for steak lovers. Steak tips, known for their tenderness and flavor, are perfect for achieving that coveted sear on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned grill master, understanding the ideal cooking time can transform your barbecue experience.
So, fire up that grill and let’s explore the secrets to perfecting your steak tips!
What Are Steak Tips?
Steak tips are small, tender pieces of beef that are perfect for grilling. These delectable bites are commonly cut from the sirloin or tenderloin, making them incredibly flavorful and juicy.
Sirloin Tips
Sirloin tips come from the sirloin area of the cow, a section known for its balance of tenderness and beefy flavor. They are often referred to as “flap meat” or “flap steak,” especially in New England. This cut is prized for its rich marbling, which ensures a juicy and flavorful bite every time.
Tenderloin Tips
Tenderloin tips, on the other hand, come from the most tender part of the cow—the tenderloin. While these are less common than sirloin tips, they are incredibly tender and melt in your mouth. If you can find them, they are worth the splurge for a special occasion.
USDA Prime Grade
When shopping for steak tips, look for the USDA Prime grade label. This designation means the meat has excellent marbling, which translates to better flavor and tenderness. According to the USDA, only the top 2-3% of beef qualifies as Prime, making it a premium choice for grilling aficionados.
Misconceptions
There are some misconceptions about what steak tips are. While some people think they can be cut from any part of the cow, true steak tips are specifically cut from the sirloin or tenderloin. These cuts are not the same as stew meat, which usually comes from tougher sections like the chuck or rump roast and requires different cooking methods.
Regional Variations
Interestingly, steak tips are a regional specialty. In New England, they are a staple at cookouts and restaurants alike. However, in places like Colorado, they are less common and might not even be on the menu at local steakhouses.
Understanding what steak tips are and where they come from can help you make informed choices at the butcher or grocery store. This knowledge ensures you’re getting the most tender and flavorful cuts for your grilling adventures.
Next, let’s dive into how to prepare steak tips for grilling, ensuring you get the perfect sear and juicy interior every time.
How to Prepare Steak Tips for Grilling
Preparation is key to achieving perfectly grilled steak tips. Follow these steps to ensure your steak tips are flavorful and juicy.
Marinade
Steak tips are already tender, but a good marinade can elevate their flavor. Marinades can range from simple to complex. A basic recipe could include:
- Italian dressing
- Brown sugar
- Garlic
- Steak seasoning
Allow the steak tips to marinate for at least two hours, but overnight in the fridge is even better. This gives the marinade time to penetrate the meat, adding a burst of flavor.
Seasoning
Before grilling, pat the steak tips dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a good sear. Brush a small amount of olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking.
For seasoning, keep it simple with salt and pepper or try something like Chicago Steak Seasoning. Adding a bit of minced garlic can also enhance the taste.
Room Temperature
Take the marinated steak tips out of the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps the meat cook more evenly. Cold meat on a hot grill can lead to uneven cooking.
Olive Oil
Brushing the steak tips with a small amount of olive oil helps prevent sticking and adds a touch of flavor. Make sure to coat both sides evenly.
Paper Towel
Dab the steak tips with a paper towel before seasoning. This step is crucial. Wet meat won’t sear properly and can lead to flare-ups when the fat hits the flames.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to grilling steak tips that are both flavorful and juicy.
Next, we’ll discuss how long to cook steak tips on the grill to achieve your desired level of doneness.
How Long to Cook Steak Tips on Grill
Grilling steak tips to perfection isn’t just about the time; it’s about the temperature and technique too. Here’s how to get it right.
Medium-Rare Steak Tips
Grill Temperature: Start by preheating your grill to high heat, around 450-550°F. This ensures a good sear.
Direct Heat: Place the steak tips directly over the heat source. This method cooks the meat quickly and gives it a nice char.
Cooking Time: Grill the steak tips for 4 minutes per side.
Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Remove from the grill immediately as the temperature will rise a bit while resting.
Medium Steak Tips
Grill Temperature: Maintain the grill at 450-550°F.
Direct Heat: Keep the steak tips over direct heat.
Cooking Time: Grill for 5 minutes per side.
Internal Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature between 135-145°F. Again, take them off the grill as soon as they hit the lower end of this range to avoid overcooking.
Medium-Well Steak Tips
Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at 450-550°F.
Direct Heat: Continue using direct heat for a quick and even cook.
Cooking Time: Grill for 6 minutes per side.
Internal Temperature: Look for an internal temperature of 145-155°F. Remove promptly to prevent the meat from becoming too dry.
Pro Tip: The internal temperature of the meat will rise slightly as it rests. Always err on the side of caution and remove the steak tips as soon as they reach the desired temperature range.
By following these guidelines, you’ll achieve perfectly grilled steak tips every time. Next, let’s delve into some tips for ensuring your steak tips are always perfect.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Steak Tips
Choosing Quality Meat
Choosing the right meat is crucial for perfect steak tips. Flap meat or steak cut from the sirloin bottom is your best bet. This cut is known for its tenderness and flavor.
Marbling is another key factor. Look for small streaks of fat interspersed within the meat. This fat melts during grilling, adding flavor and juiciness.
Fat content is also important. While you want some fat for flavor, too much can lead to flare-ups on the grill. Trim excess fat before cooking.
Preparing the Grill
Proper grill preparation sets the stage for perfect steak tips. Start by brushing the grates with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Preheat your grill to between 450-500°F. This high heat is essential for searing the steak tips and locking in juices.
If your steak tips are small, consider using a grill plate. This prevents the meat from falling through the grates while still allowing for a good sear.
Letting It Rest
Resting your steak tips is a step you shouldn’t skip. Once you remove the steak tips from the grill, let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite flavorful and juicy. Cutting into the steak too soon can cause these juices to run out, leading to a drier steak.
By focusing on quality meat, proper grill preparation, and adequate resting time, you’ll elevate your steak tips from good to great. Avoid common mistakes like choosing cheap meat or grilling wet steak, and you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of grilling steak tips.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grilling Steak Tips
How to Know When Beef Tips Are Done?
To know when beef tips are done, an instant-read thermometer is your best friend. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak tip to get an accurate reading. For safety, beef tips should reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F. However, the ideal temperature depends on your preferred level of doneness.
What Temperature Should Steak Tips Be?
The temperature of steak tips varies based on how you like them cooked:
- Rare: 120°–125°F
- Medium Rare: 130°–135°F
- Medium: 140°–145°F
- Medium Well: 150°–155°F
- Well Done: 160°–165°F
The internal temperature will rise slightly as the meat rests, so it’s best to remove the steak tips from the grill a few degrees below your target temperature.
How Long to Grill Steak Tips for Medium-Rare?
For medium-rare steak tips, grill them for about 4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. This method ensures a juicy, tender interior with a perfect sear on the outside.
By using these guidelines and your instant-read thermometer, you can achieve perfectly cooked steak tips every time.
Conclusion
Grilling steak tips to perfection may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it becomes a breeze. At Grill Wizard Oz, we pride ourselves on providing expert-driven content to help you master the grill and achieve the perfect steak tips every time.
Remember these key points:
- Choose quality meat: Opt for USDA Prime grade sirloin or flap meat for the best results.
- Prepare the grill properly: Preheat to the right temperature and use olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook to your preference: Use our guidelines for medium-rare, medium, and medium-well to get the perfect doneness.
- Rest the meat: Letting steak tips rest ensures they stay juicy and tender.
With these tips, your steak tips will be the highlight of any meal, bursting with flavor and cooked just right.
For more detailed guides and tips on grilling, check out our comprehensive guide on gas grills. Happy grilling!
