Marinated Steak Tips
Juicy, tender steak tips soaked in a savory, tangy marinade and grilled to perfection. A beloved New England backyard barbecue staple that's incredibly flavorful and easy to make.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade
- b.In a large, non-reactive bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, packed brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt.
- c.Continue whisking for about 1 minute until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Steak
- b.Ensure your beef is cut into uniform 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking.
- c.Add the steak cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated.
- d.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-8 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
- e.Note: Do not marinate for more than 12 hours, as the acidity can start to break down the meat's texture.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare for Grilling
- b.About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the steak from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature.
- c.Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- d.Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush, then lightly oil them using a paper towel dipped in a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- e.Remove the steak tips from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Steak Tips
- b.Place the steak tips on the hot grill, ensuring there is space between each piece for a proper sear. Avoid overcrowding the grill.
- c.Grill for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 5-6 minutes per side for medium. The exact time depends on the thickness of the meat and your grill's temperature.
- d.For best results, use an instant-read thermometer: 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 135-145°F (57-63°C) for medium.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Once cooked to your desired doneness, transfer the steak tips from the grill to a clean cutting board or platter.
- c.Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
- d.Serve warm with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic New England flavor, use sirloin flap meat. If unavailable, sirloin tips, tri-tip, or even flank steak cut into cubes are good alternatives.
- 2Bringing the meat to room temperature before grilling promotes more even cooking from edge to center.
- 3Don't skip the resting step! It's the key to juicy, tender steak tips.
- 4The marinade contains sugar, which can cause flare-ups and burning. Keep a close eye on the steak tips and move them to a cooler part of the grill if they are charring too quickly.
- 5For an easy all-in-one meal, thread the marinated steak tips onto skewers with chunks of bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes before grilling.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herb InfusedHerb-Infused
Add 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an earthy, aromatic flavor.
No Grill? No Problem!No Grill? No Problem!
Cook the steak tips in a hot, heavy-bottomed cast-iron skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Bourbon GlazeBourbon Glaze
Replace the balsamic vinegar with 1/4 cup of your favorite bourbon for a smoky, rich flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting a healthy metabolism.
Rich in Heme Iron
This recipe provides heme iron, a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Packed with B Vitamins
Steak is a natural source of B vitamins, particularly B12 and B6, which are vital for energy production, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
The most authentic cut is beef sirloin flap meat, often just labeled 'steak tips' in New England butcher shops. If you can't find it, sirloin tips, tri-tip, or even flank steak cut into thick cubes are excellent substitutes.