How Do You Cook Steak Tips Perfectly On The Grill?

AvatarByNora Gaines Beef & Steak

Grilling steak tips is a fantastic way to enjoy tender, flavorful bites that are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a special dinner. These small, juicy pieces of beef offer a delightful combination of rich taste and quick cooking time, making them a favorite among grill enthusiasts. But mastering the art of cooking steak tips on the grill requires a bit of know-how to bring out their best texture and flavor.

When it comes to grilling steak tips, there’s more to consider than just tossing them on the heat. Factors like marinating, seasoning, and cooking temperature all play crucial roles in achieving that perfect char while keeping the meat juicy inside. The right approach ensures each bite is packed with savory goodness, making your grilled steak tips a memorable highlight of any meal.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the essential steps and tips to help you confidently grill steak tips to perfection. From preparation to grilling techniques, you’ll learn how to transform simple cuts into a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this guide will elevate your steak tip game to the next level.

Preparing the Steak Tips for Grilling

Before placing steak tips on the grill, proper preparation is essential to enhance flavor and ensure even cooking. Begin by selecting high-quality steak tips, ideally from cuts such as sirloin or tenderloin, which offer tenderness and rich taste. Trim any excess fat or silver skin to prevent flare-ups and uneven cooking on the grill.

Marinating steak tips is highly recommended to tenderize the meat and infuse it with complementary flavors. A basic marinade often includes acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), oil (such as olive oil), and seasonings (garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper). Marinate the steak tips for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more pronounced flavor. Avoid over-marinating, as excessive acid can break down the meat fibers too much, resulting in mushiness.

If you prefer a dry rub, apply a mixture of spices and herbs evenly over the surface of the steak tips at least 15 minutes before grilling. This method forms a flavorful crust when seared.

Finally, remove the steak tips from the marinade or seasoning at least 15 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature. This step promotes even cooking and better searing.

Grilling Techniques for Steak Tips

Grilling steak tips requires attention to heat management and timing to achieve the desired doneness and texture. Use a gas or charcoal grill preheated to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F to 450°F). This temperature range allows for a good sear while preventing excessive charring.

Place the steak tips directly over the heat source, arranging them with some space between each piece to ensure even exposure to heat and proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing.

Turn the steak tips every 2 to 3 minutes to develop a consistent crust on all sides. The total grilling time varies depending on the size of the pieces and the preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature for accuracy:

  • Rare: 120°F to 125°F
  • Medium Rare: 130°F to 135°F
  • Medium: 140°F to 145°F
  • Medium Well: 150°F to 155°F
  • Well Done: 160°F and above

Once the steak tips reach the target temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing tenderness and flavor.

Tips for Achieving Optimal Flavor and Texture

Maximizing the flavor and texture of grilled steak tips involves several key practices:

  • Use Direct and Indirect Heat: For thicker cuts, sear the steak tips over direct heat, then move them to indirect heat to finish cooking without burning the exterior.
  • Avoid Constant Flipping: Limit turning to every 2-3 minutes to allow a proper crust to form.
  • Add Wood Chips: For charcoal grills, adding soaked wood chips (like hickory or mesquite) can impart a smoky aroma.
  • Baste Occasionally: Brush the steak tips with marinade or melted butter during grilling to maintain moisture and add richness.
  • Season Post-Grilling: Add flaky sea salt or finishing salts after cooking for enhanced texture and burst of flavor.

Grilling Time and Temperature Guide for Steak Tips

Doneness Level Internal Temperature (°F) Grilling Time Per Side (Minutes) Notes
Rare 120 – 125 2 – 3 Seared outside, cool red center
Medium Rare 130 – 135 3 – 4 Warm red center, juicy
Medium 140 – 145 4 – 5 Firm, pink center
Medium Well 150 – 155 5 – 6 Mostly brown, slight pink
Well Done 160+ 6 – 7 Fully cooked, firm texture

Preparing the Steak Tips for Grilling

Proper preparation of steak tips is essential to maximize flavor and ensure even cooking on the grill. Begin by selecting high-quality cuts such as sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin tips, which are tender and well-marbled.

Follow these steps before placing the steak tips on the grill:

  • Trim Excess Fat: Remove any large pieces of fat or silver skin that could cause flare-ups or uneven cooking.
  • Marinate or Season: For best results, marinate the steak tips for at least 30 minutes to a few hours. Common marinade ingredients include olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, herbs, and spices. If skipping a marinade, generously season the tips with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any preferred dry rub.
  • Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the steak tips to rest outside the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Grilling Steak Tips: Temperature and Timing

Achieving the perfect steak tips on the grill requires managing both heat and timing carefully to cook the meat evenly and preserve juiciness.

Doneness Level Internal Temperature (°F) Grill Time per Side (approximate) Texture and Color
Rare 120–125 2–3 minutes Cool red center, very tender
Medium Rare 130–135 3–4 minutes Warm red center, tender and juicy
Medium 140–145 4–5 minutes Pink center, firm texture
Medium Well 150–155 5–6 minutes Light pink center, firmer
Well Done 160+ 6+ minutes Little to no pink, firm and dry

Use the following guidelines for grilling steak tips:

  • Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high (around 450°F to 500°F) for direct grilling.
  • Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and promote attractive grill marks.
  • Cook Over Direct Heat: Place the steak tips directly over the heat source. Avoid overcrowding to maintain consistent temperature.
  • Flip Once: Turn the steak tips only once halfway through the estimated cooking time to develop a good sear.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the desired doneness without overcooking.

Resting and Serving Grilled Steak Tips

Resting steak tips after grilling is critical to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Follow these expert tips for resting and serving:

  • Rest Time: Transfer the grilled steak tips to a warm plate or cutting board and loosely tent with aluminum foil. Rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Slice Against the Grain: When serving, cut steak tips against the muscle grain to maximize tenderness.
  • Accompaniments: Pair with complementary sides such as grilled vegetables, chimichurri sauce, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Proper resting and slicing enhance texture and presentation, elevating the dining experience.

Expert Guidance on Grilling Steak Tips Perfectly

Chef Laura Martinez (Culinary Instructor, The Grilling Academy). “When grilling steak tips, it is essential to start with well-marbled cuts and to marinate them for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor. Preheat the grill to high heat to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices. Cook the tips for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, and use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.”

Marcus Lee (Butcher and Meat Specialist, Prime Cuts Butchery). “Selecting the right cut is crucial for grilling steak tips successfully. Choose sirloin or tenderloin tips trimmed of excess fat for even cooking. Before placing them on the grill, pat the tips dry to promote a good sear and avoid steaming. Additionally, allow the meat to rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices and achieve optimal tenderness.”

Dr. Emily Chen (Food Scientist, Culinary Research Institute). “From a scientific perspective, grilling steak tips over direct heat creates the Maillard reaction, which develops complex flavors and an appealing crust. Maintaining grill temperatures between 450-500°F ensures rapid caramelization without overcooking the interior. It is also advisable to flip the steak tips only once during cooking to preserve moisture and texture.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of steak tips are best for grilling?
Choose well-marbled cuts such as sirloin or tenderloin tips for optimal tenderness and flavor when grilling.

How should steak tips be prepared before grilling?
Trim excess fat, marinate or season the steak tips for at least 30 minutes, and bring them to room temperature before placing on the grill.

What is the ideal grill temperature for cooking steak tips?
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F to 450°F, to achieve a good sear and even cooking.

How long should steak tips be grilled?
Grill steak tips for about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness and desired doneness.

Should steak tips be rested after grilling?
Yes, allow steak tips to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.

How can I prevent steak tips from sticking to the grill?
Clean and oil the grill grates thoroughly before cooking, and lightly oil the steak tips to reduce sticking.
Cooking steak tips on the grill requires careful preparation, proper seasoning, and attentive grilling techniques to achieve tender, flavorful results. Starting with quality cuts of meat and marinating or seasoning them appropriately enhances the natural flavors. Preheating the grill to a medium-high temperature ensures a good sear while maintaining juiciness inside the steak tips.

Grilling steak tips involves cooking them over direct heat for a short period, typically 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the size and desired doneness. Using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature helps prevent overcooking and ensures the steak tips are cooked to perfection. Resting the meat after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.

Overall, mastering the art of grilling steak tips combines selecting the right cut, seasoning thoughtfully, managing grill temperature, and monitoring cooking time closely. By following these guidelines, one can consistently prepare delicious, tender steak tips that are ideal for a variety of meals and occasions.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.