Juicy Traeger Top Sirloin Steak

This top sirloin steak recipe transforms your Traeger grill into a steakhouse-quality cooking station right in your backyard. The perfect blend of spices creates a flavorful crust while the pellet grill's consistent heat ensures juicy, tender results every time.

I developed this recipe after years of overcooking expensive steaks on traditional grills. My family now requests these Traeger steaks for every special occasion, and guests always ask for my secret rub recipe.

Ingredients

• Top sirloin steaks: Approximately 6 ounces each chosen for their excellent balance of tenderness and flavor
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth without burning like fresh garlic would
• Onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and complexity to the rub
• Paprika: Contributes beautiful color and mild pepper flavor
• Chili powder: Introduces a gentle heat that enhances the beef flavor
• Light brown sugar: Helps create caramelization and balances the savory elements
• Kosher salt: Larger crystals than table salt perfect for creating a proper crust
• Ground black pepper: Adds classic steak flavor and subtle heat

How To Make Traeger Grill Top Sirloin Steak

Prepare the grill:

Heat your Traeger to exactly 375°F which creates the perfect environment for developing flavor while maintaining juiciness. This temperature allows for proper searing without drying out the meat. Place a non-stick mat on the grates if you have one to prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks.

Create the rub:

Combine all seasonings in a small bowl and mix thoroughly with your fingers to break up any clumps in the brown sugar. This ensures even distribution of flavors across the meat surface. The combination creates a perfect balance of savory spice with just enough sweetness to enhance the beef's natural flavors.

Season the steaks:

Apply the rub generously to all sides of your steaks pressing gently to adhere. Make sure to cover the edges too as these areas can dry out quickly. The rub creates a flavorful barrier that seals in juices while adding incredible taste.

Initial cooking phase:

Place seasoned steaks directly on the preheated grill grates and close the lid immediately to trap heat and smoke. Cook undisturbed for exactly 10 minutes which allows the bottom to develop a perfect crust while the interior begins cooking gently.

Finish cooking:

Flip the steaks carefully using tongs and cook for 5 more minutes with the lid closed. This shorter time on the second side prevents overcooking while still developing flavor. The precise timing produces a perfect medium doneness with slight pink center.

Rest before serving:

Remove steaks and let them rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This critical step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat rather than spilling out when cut. The internal temperature will rise slightly during resting completing the cooking process.

Pin it

My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the brown sugar. I discovered its magic after experimenting with countless rub combinations. During a summer cookout my brother in law a professional chef tasted these steaks and immediately asked for my recipe assuming I had used some professional technique. The simple addition of brown sugar makes all the difference creating a beautiful crust that locks in moisture.

Perfect Wood Pellet Selection

The type of wood pellets you use significantly impacts your steak's final flavor profile. Hickory pellets offer a classic strong smoky flavor that complements beef beautifully. Oak provides a more medium smoky taste while cherry adds a subtle sweetness and gorgeous color to the meat. For an interesting twist try a competition blend which typically includes hickory maple and cherry for a complex flavor profile. Avoid mesquite for this recipe as its intense flavor can overpower the natural taste of top sirloin.

Simple Sides That Complement

These Traeger grilled sirloins pair perfectly with simple sides that let the steak shine. Try grilled asparagus brushed with olive oil and finished with lemon zest the bright flavor cuts through the rich beef. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes make an excellent companion soaking up the steak juices. For a lighter option a simple arugula salad with shaved parmesan and balsamic glaze provides peppery freshness. Since your Traeger is already hot consider throwing on some halved baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs during the last 15 minutes of preheating.

Pin it

Temperature Guide For Perfect Doneness

Understanding steak doneness is crucial for achieving your preferred result. For rare remove the steak at 120°F internal temperature after about 8 minutes total cooking time. Medium rare requires 130°F reached at approximately the 15 minutes specified in the recipe. For medium doneness aim for 140°F adding about 2 more minutes to the second side cooking time. Medium well needs 150°F requiring approximately 4 additional minutes. Well done steaks should reach 160°F though I recommend choosing a different cut than top sirloin if you prefer well done as it can become tough. Always use an instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak for accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your steaks turn out tough check that you're not overcooking them or using steaks straight from the refrigerator cold meat contracts when hitting high heat. For steaks lacking flavor ensure you're applying enough rub and properly preheating your Traeger grill. If your crust isn't developing make sure your grill is fully preheated and consider patting the steaks dry before applying the rub as moisture prevents browning. Uneven cooking typically results from varying steak thicknesses so choose consistently sized cuts or adjust cooking times for individual steaks. When cooking multiple steaks leave space between them for proper air circulation as crowding creates steam rather than direct heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What temperature should I grill top sirloin steaks on a Traeger?

For best results, preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F to cook top sirloin steaks evenly and achieve a tender texture.

→ How do I season top sirloin steak for grilling?

Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper, then apply liberally to all sides of the steak for a flavorful result.

→ How long should I cook top sirloin steaks on a Traeger?

Cook the steaks for about 10 minutes on one side and 5 minutes on the other, depending on the thickness and desired doneness.

→ Do I need to let the steaks rest after grilling?

Yes, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.

→ What equipment is essential for grilling steaks on a Traeger?

Essential items include a Traeger grill, optional non-stick grill mats, and a dry rub or seasoning blend for flavor.