Pan-Seared Tri-Tip with Bacon Garlic Cream Sauce

Pan-Seared Tri-Tip with Bacon Garlic Cream Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 tri-tip steak (1.5 to 2 lbs)

• 2–3 tbsp butter (plus extra for sauce)

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, measure with your heart)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 6–8 slices bacon

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• Optional: A splash of white wine or beef broth (for deglazing)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Tri-Tip:

   • Pat the tri-tip dry with paper towels.

   • In a small bowl, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter and mix in half the garlic.

   • Brush both sides of the cold tri-tip with the garlic butter. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes while you prep the rest (but keep it relatively cool — the butter hardening forms a crust).

2. Cook the Bacon:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy.

   • Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble the bacon and set aside.

   • Drain most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.

3. Sear the Tri-Tip:

   • In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter-crusted tri-tip.

   • Sear for 4–6 minutes per side (for medium-rare), depending on thickness.

   • Adjust timing for your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer:

     • 130°F for medium-rare

     • 140°F for medium

     • 150°F for medium-well

   • Once done, transfer to a plate and rest for 5–10 minutes.

4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:

   • In the same pan, melt 1–2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

   • Add remaining garlic and thyme. Sauté briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

   • Optional: Deglaze with a splash of white wine or broth, scraping up browned bits.

   • Stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

   • Stir in half of the crumbled bacon.

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

   • Slice the rested tri-tip against the grain.

   • Plate and spoon bacon garlic cream sauce over the top.

   • Sprinkle with remaining bacon crumbles.

Tips:

• This pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crusty loaf of bread.

• A splash of Dijon or a touch of Parmesan in the sauce could also take it to another level if you’re feeling extra.

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