What Part of the Cow Does a Tri-Tip Steak Come From?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 25, 2020

Tri-tip steaks come from the sirloin section of the cow. Tri-tip steaks are very flavorful, although they can be a little tough.

There are only two tri-tip steaks per cow and they come from the triangular muscle that controls the back legs. Tri-tips can be sold under other names, such as sirloin tip, sirloin butt and bottom sirloin. Tri-tip steaks can be prepared in a number of different ways. They are excellent cooked on the stove top and are perfect for roasting or broiling.

Sirloin tri-tip has less marbling than a top sirloin but still has remarkable flavor. For the best quality, the steak should be at least three-quarters of an inch thick.