Air Fryer Tri-Tip
Ready in about 39 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Tri-tip is a flavour-packed triangular cut beloved in Californian barbecue. The air fryer gives it a peppery bark and a juicy medium centre in under half an hour, no grill required, ready to slice thin for sandwiches or platters.
Ingredients
- 800 g tri-tip roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
Method
- 1Combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and onion powder to make a rub.
- 2Coat the tri-tip in oil, then massage the rub all over and leave for 20 minutes.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 4 minutes.
- 4Cook fat-side down for 20-28 minutes, flipping halfway.
- 5Pull the roast at 63°C (145°F) for medium doneness.
- 6Rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain, which changes direction across the cut.
Tips for the best results
- The grain runs in two directions on a tri-tip, so watch the fibres and adjust your slicing angle.
- A quick spritz of oil in the last few minutes helps the bark set and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer tri-tip?+
Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 20-28 min, flip halfway.