There’s something incredibly nostalgic about sliders, isn’t there? They remind me of backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and lazy summer afternoons. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders that is not only easy and quick to make but also packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, you won’t forget this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 1 pound tri-tip steak: This cut is perfect for grilling and offers a rich flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors.
- 8 slider buns: Choose your favorite type, from classic to whole grain.
- 1 cup cowboy butter: A delicious blend that takes these sliders to the next level.
- Optional toppings: Sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, or cheese to add extra flair!
How to Make Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own mouthwatering sliders.
- Prepare Cowboy Butter: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, form it into a log, and refrigerate until firm.
- Cook the Tri-Tip: Season your tri-tip steak generously with salt and pepper. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired doneness. Once done, remove it from heat and let it rest for about 10 minutes to retain its juices.
- Slice the Steak: After resting, slice the tri-tip thinly against the grain. This helps ensure each bite is tender and juicy.
- Assemble Sliders: Lightly toast the slider buns. Spread a generous amount of your homemade cowboy butter on the bottom half of each bun. Top with slices of tri-tip and add any optional toppings you like. Finally, place the top half of the bun on each slider.
- Serve: Enjoy your sliders immediately while warm for the best flavor experience!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re feeling creative, here are some fun substitutions and additions you can try:
- Swap the tri-tip for another cut of beef or even chicken for a different flavor.
- Use different herbs in the cowboy butter, like dill or thyme, to change up the taste.
- Try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions as additional toppings.
- For a little kick, add some hot sauce to your cowboy butter or top with spicy cheese.
Tips for Success
Before you dive into making these sliders, here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Don’t skip the resting time for the tri-tip; it really makes a difference in tenderness.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak; using a meat thermometer can help you get it just right.
- Prepare the cowboy butter ahead of time; it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week!
How to Store Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also store the cowboy butter separately and use it on other dishes like grilled vegetables or on top of a juicy steak.
FAQs
Can I make the cowboy butter ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it a few days in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
What can I serve with these sliders? They pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad!
Can I freeze the sliders? It’s best to freeze the tri-tip and the cowboy butter separately, as assembled sliders may become soggy.
I hope you enjoy making these Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders as much as I do! They are perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. For more delicious recipes, check out Tasty with Lara or Breakfast Burrito for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and inspiration!

Tri-tip Cowboy Butter Sliders
Equipment
- Grill or skillet
- bowl
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
For the Cowboy Butter
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For the Sliders
- 1 lb tri-tip steak
- 8 units slider buns your favorite type
Optional toppings
- sliced jalapeños
- pickled onions
- cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Cowboy Butter by mixing all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating until firm.
- Step 2: Season tri-tip steak with salt and pepper. Grill or cook in skillet for 6-8 minutes on each side. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Step 3: Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
- Step 4: Assemble sliders by toasting buns, spreading cowboy butter, adding steak and toppings.
- Step 5: Serve immediately while warm.
