Grilled baked potatoes are a delicious and easy way to elevate your BBQ. If you’re wondering how to cook baked potatoes on the grill, you’re in the right place. The grill adds a smoky flavor that makes potatoes taste amazing, with a crispy skin and soft, fluffy interior. Whether you’re grilling up burgers, steak, or chicken, baked potatoes are the perfect side dish.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the right potatoes to grilling them perfectly. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to cook baked potatoes on the grill and be ready to impress your guests at your next cookout.
Why Grill Baked Potatoes?
So, why grill baked potatoes in the first place?
Grilling potatoes gives them a unique flavor that you just can’t get from an oven. The direct heat creates a crispy, charred skin, while the inside stays soft and fluffy. The smoke from the grill adds a depth of flavor that can’t be matched.
Grilled baked potatoes are also perfect for barbecues and cookouts, as they pair well with grilled meats. Plus, you don’t have to turn on the oven, which keeps your kitchen cool during hot summer days.
How to Choosing the Right Potatoes
Not all potatoes are the same when it comes to grilling. For the best results, you’ll want to go with Russet potatoes. They have a thick skin and a starchy interior, making them perfect for baking and grilling.
Other types like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes can work, but they have a creamier texture, and their skins aren’t as ideal for grilling. If you’re after that crispy skin and soft inside, stick with Russets.
When picking potatoes, make sure they’re firm and free of any spots or blemishes. Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking.
Preparing Baked Potatoes for the Grill
Now that you’ve got your potatoes, let’s get them ready for the grill. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Clean the Potatoes
Rinse your potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Scrub them gently with a brush if necessary. Since you’ll be cooking them with the skins on, make sure they’re clean.
2. Prick the Potatoes
Grab a fork and poke a few holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the potatoes from exploding.
3. Season the Potatoes
Rub your potatoes with olive oil or melted butter. This will help crisp up the skin. Then, sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices if you like extra flavor.
4. Wrap in Foil (Optional)
If you prefer a softer potato, wrap each one in aluminum foil. This traps moisture and speeds up the cooking process. But if you like a crispy skin, you can skip the foil and cook the potatoes directly on the grill.
5. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing and have settled down.
How to cook baked potatoes on the grill
There are two main ways to cook baked potatoes on the grill: direct grilling and indirect grilling. Let’s break down both methods.
Direct Grilling (Without Foil)
- Place the Potatoes on the Grill
Once the grill is ready, place the potatoes directly on the grates. If you’re not using foil, put the potatoes with the skins facing up. - Close the Lid and Cook
Close the grill lid and cook the potatoes for 40-50 minutes. Turn them every 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking and get that nice char on all sides. - Check for Doneness
You’ll know the potatoes are done when a fork easily slides into the center. If you feel resistance, give them a bit more time on the grill.
Indirect Grilling (With Foil)
- Wrap the Potatoes in Foil
If you want a softer potato, wrap each potato in a double layer of foil. This keeps the moisture in and helps the potatoes cook more quickly. - Place the Potatoes on the Grill
Place the wrapped potatoes over indirect heat, away from the direct flame. Close the lid. - Cook for 40-60 Minutes
Let the potatoes cook for about 40-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Turn them once or twice to ensure even cooking.
While this method creates a softer skin, it’s a great option if you prefer a more tender potato.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Baked Potatoes
To make sure your grilled potatoes turn out just right, here are a few extra tips:
1. Preheat the Grill
A hot grill helps cook the potatoes evenly and gives them that perfect crispy skin. Always preheat before adding your potatoes.
2. Don’t Overcook
Potatoes can dry out if you cook them too long. Check them around the 40-minute mark. Once the fork slides in easily, they’re done.
3. Rotate the Potatoes
To avoid uneven cooking, turn your potatoes every 10-15 minutes. This will help them cook evenly on all sides.
4. Let Them Rest
After removing the potatoes from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. This helps redistribute the moisture inside, keeping the potatoes fluffy.
Serving Suggestions and Toppings
Once your potatoes are perfectly grilled, it’s time to load them up with toppings! Here are some ideas:
- Classic Toppings: Sour cream, butter, chives, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits.
- Loaded Potatoes: Chili, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions make for a hearty topping.
- Vegetarian Style: Top with grilled vegetables like peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
- Spicy: Add salsa, jalapeños, and cilantro for a kick.
- Gourmet: Try goat cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for something a little fancier.
You can also learn more About How Long to Bake Chicken Tenderloins at 350°F
Conclusion
Grilling baked potatoes is an easy way to elevate your cookout. They get a delicious smoky flavor and a perfectly crispy skin that makes them the perfect side dish for any grilled meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a simple side, grilled baked potatoes are sure to impress.
By following the tips and methods in this guide, you’ll be able to cook potatoes that are tender on the inside and crisp on the outside every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you grill potatoes without foil?
Yes, you can! Grilling potatoes without foil gives them a crispier skin and smoky flavor. Just be sure to poke some holes in them first.
2. How long does it take to grill potatoes?
It usually takes about 40-50 minutes to grill potatoes over medium heat. Larger potatoes may take longer, so check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer.
3. Do I need to wrap potatoes in foil for grilling?
Wrapping potatoes in foil is optional. If you prefer a soft skin, wrap them in foil. If you like crispy skin, grill them directly on the grates without foil.
4. What kind of potatoes are best for grilling?
Russet potatoes are the best for grilling because they have thick skin and a starchy interior. They hold up well on the grill and get nice and crispy.
5. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The best way to check is by inserting a fork or skewer into the center of the potato. If it slides in easily, the potatoes are done.