Tri Tip Sandwich (Use Any Fresh or Leftover Steak)

Use freshly cooked or leftover tri tip to make a delectable Tri Tip Sandwich, featuring smoked gouda, pickled red onions, arugula and jalapeno aioli piled on top of crusty ciabatta bread.

We have two tri tip recipes to choose from to make this steak sandwich:  Sous Vide Tri Tip or Smoked Tri Tip (to make a Smoked Tri Tip sandwich). TIP: You can forgo the “smoke” in the smoked version to make it a grilled tri tip sandwich.

Tri Tip Sandwiches

While this recipe is titled “Tritip sandwich” you can, in fact, use almost any other kind of  beef. Think Picanha, Smoked Beef Tenderloin, Denver Steak, Prime Rib, Sous Vide Short Ribs, or Smoked Prime Rib.

Tri Tip Sandwich Recipe Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you need to prepare this sandwich:

• Tri Tip Roast
• Bread (Recommend: Ciabatta)
• Cheese (Recommend: Smoked Gouda)
• Pickled Red Onions
• Arugula
• Jalapeno Aioli (or Sriracha Aioli)

Jalapeno Aioli

When making, whip up the jalapeno aioli first so it’s ready to go when needed. The only ingredients you need to make the jalapeno aioli recipe are: mayonnaise, lime, garlic, jalapeno and salt.

Cooking Tri Tip

As mentioned above, we have two different tri tip recipes so far on Foodie and Wine, however you can use any tri tip recipe you like. Have restaurant leftovers? Use them. Craving Cardiff Crack (shout out to my San Diego readers!)? Use it.

Leftover Tri Tip

Using leftover tri tip? You’re going to love this tri tip sandwich recipe. The genius of the recipe…the cold beef is only broiled for a few minutes, along with the bread and cheese, so it won’t overcook. No dry meat in this recipe! The “pink center” will stay pink! AND….it cuts down on prep time.

Per the USDA, tri tip is best when eaten within two or three days. The more “well done” the tri tip, the longer it will last in the refrigerator. Something to keep in mind, when menu planning.

Sandwich Assembly

Here’s a visual breakdown of how to assemble the sandwich. The order is important to maintain texture, melt the cheese, and if using leftover tri tip, warm the beef!

Make the Jalapeno Aioli Recipe – Start by making the aioli. This way the flavors have time to meld.

Make the Tri Tip – If using leftover tri tip, take it out of the refrigerator and slice thinly, against the grain. If using freshly cooked tri tip, get to cooking! Proceed to the next step after the tri tip roast has rested. 

Pre-heat the Oven – Pre-heat the oven to broil (high). 

Toast the Bread (OPTIONAL)- Depending on the bread you use, you may want to toast it if it’s overly soft. We do not toast the bread when using Ciabatta, but it’s a personal preference. To toast: Place two pieces of bread on a baking sheet and toast for 3-4 minutes, until your desired brownness is achieved.

Re-heat the Meat – Skip this step if you’re using a freshly made tri tip roast and the meat is still warm. Layer the sliced tri tip on top of the bottom slice of bread, as pictured below. Broil for 3-5 minutes, until the meat is warm.

Melt the Cheese – Layer the cheese, in a single layer, on top of the re-heated slices of tri tip. If using freshly made tri tip, you’ll put the cheese directly on the bottom slice of bread. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is soft. Depending on the style of cheese you select, it may not be melted, rather soft and creamy.

Add the Meat – if you didn’t have to re-heat the sliced meat in the previous step, add it now.

Add the Toppings – Pile on the pickled red onions and arugula, to taste.

Slather on the Aioli – Spread the aioli on the top piece of the bread, to taste. Place the top bun on the bottom bun and enjoy!

Best Bread For Steak Sandwiches

We usually stick with ciabatta bread, but love using garlic bread (either in a large loaf or individual slices). You could also use French bread or baguette. All of these options toast well. The broiling time may differer, however, so adjust accordingly.

Sandwich Variations

Horseradish Aioli

Replace the jalapeno aioli with horseradish sauce or Horseradish Aioli. Or just add a bit of prepared horseradish to the jalapeno aioli. You could also sub in plain mayo.

Prime Rib Au Jus

If you’re looking for more of a french dip style sandwich, we have you covered. Omit the jalapeno aioli and replace the pickled red onions with grilled onions. Serve with a cup of our prime rib au jus. We use this liquid gold in our Prime Rib Sandwich.

Tri Tip Sliders

Replace the ciabatta bread with slider rolls. No other changes are needed.

Drink Pairing Ideas

Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Malbec. Of course a classic Amber Ale beer would be stellar.