This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This Santa Maria Tri Tip Rub is all about strong, straightforward flavor. It’s smoky, savory, and balanced with just enough heat to keep things interesting. A well-tested mix that complements beef without overpowering it.

The combination of espresso, smoked paprika, and Aleppo chili adds depth and a subtle kick, making this rub a go-to for our California tri-tip and other grilled meats. It comes together in minutes and keeps well, so you can have it ready in a pinch.

Glass jar of coarse brown tri tip spice blend on marble.

This is the Best Rub for Tri Tip

Smoky + spicy layers: Smoked paprika and Aleppo chili bring heat and depth without overwhelming the meat. This blend works whether you’re grilling, roasting, or finishing a sous vide tri tip. It’s versatile and flavorful without stealing the show.

Coffee kick: That spoonful of espresso powder doesn’t make the rub taste like coffee—it just adds depth and brings out the rich, savory flavor of the beef.

Balanced sweetness: Brown sugar smooths out the spice and helps with caramelization during grilling.

Big flavor, zero junk: No preservatives or weird fillers, just ten real ingredients doing their job.

Eight labeled spice jars with bowls of brown sugar and espresso coffee.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh spices: If your spices smell like cardboard, your rub will too. Replace anything more than a year old.

Grind it finer: Want a more uniform blend? Blitz it in a spice grinder for a smoother rub.

Let it rest: Rub the tri-tip and let it sit for at least an hour (or overnight) to soak in the flavor.

Scale up: This recipe multiplies easily. Just keep the ratios and stash the extra for future cooks.

This rub isn’t just for beef. Try in on my seared lamb chops or grilled chicken breasts.

White bowl with assorted colorful spice powders.

If you like this rub, you might also want to check out our other blends like the Cajun Dry Rub, BBQ Seasoning, and Shawarma Spice Rib.

And I also have a homemade taco seasoning blend. Each one made with real ingredients

Seasoned tri-tip steak on cutting board with dry rub and spice jar.

Just a Great Dry Rub

This Santa Maria Tri Tip Rub brings bold, smoky flavor with zero fuss. It’s quick to mix, easy to store, and delivers every time you fire up the grill. Keep a jar on hand. You’ll reach for it more than you think.

Pin this now to find it later!

Pin It