By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

BBQ smoker producing aromatic smoke

Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels

Quick Answer

Smoke tri-tip: 2-3 hours at 120-135°C (250-275°F). Internal temp: 54-57°C (130-135°F) for medium-rare. Santa Maria style: salt, pepper, garlic powder.

Smoking Tri-Tip

Time: 2-3 hours at 120-135°C (250-275°F)

Internal Temperature: 54-57°C (130-135°F) for medium-rare

Santa Maria style: salt, pepper, garlic powder. Reverse sear for a crust. Note the grain runs in two directions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long to smoke tri-tip?

2-3 hours at 120-135°C (250-275°F). Santa Maria style: salt, pepper, garlic powder.

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Sources & References

1
Mad Scientist BBQ (YouTube)
Jeremy Yoder's detailed BBQ experiments and science-based cooking methods.
Video
2
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Official Australian food safety guidelines and safe cooking temperatures.
Government
3
America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)
Rigorously tested steak cooking methods with scientific precision.
Video
4
Guga Foods (YouTube)
Premium beef experiments — dry ageing, wagyu, and creative steak techniques.
Video