Baked Potatoes on the Grill Recipe
Picture this: The warm sun is setting, the sound of laughter fills the air, and your backyard grill is working its magic. On that grill is a batch of potatoes, sizzling gently and taking on a smoky, charred perfection. There’s nothing quite like baked potatoes cooked on a grill. It’s a simple dish that transforms into something extraordinary with the right techniques—and you’re about to master them.
This guide is for you, whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or looking for a comforting side dish for a cozy outdoor evening. With step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and creative variations, you’ll be well-equipped to create baked potatoes on the grill that are a hit every single time.
Table of Contents
Why Grill Baked Potatoes?
Grilled baked potatoes aren’t just about convenience—they’re about elevating a simple dish to something special.
1. Flavor That Stands Out
Grilling imparts a unique, smoky flavor to baked potatoes that’s hard to achieve with an oven. The high heat caramelizes the skin slightly, giving it a nutty, rich taste that pairs beautifully with toppings like sour cream or butter.
2. Texture Perfection
The best baked potatoes have a crisp, golden-brown skin and a fluffy interior. Grilling creates the ideal environment for achieving this. Even if you’re not using foil, the heat surrounds the potato evenly, cooking it to perfection.
3. A Summertime Staple
Grilled baked potatoes are the ultimate barbecue side. They pair well with everything from grilled steaks to veggie skewers. Plus, you’re keeping the heat outside—perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Every great recipe begins with the right ingredients and tools. Here’s what you need to make the best baked potatoes on the grill.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | 4 medium-sized | Ideal for baking due to their starchy texture |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Enhances crispiness and adds rich flavor |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Use sea salt or kosher for best results |
| Aluminum Foil (optional) | 4 sheets | For softer skin or indirect grilling |
| Toppings (optional) | As desired | Think butter, shredded cheese, chives |
Why Russet Potatoes?
Russets are the gold standard for baked potatoes. Their high starch content creates that sought-after fluffy interior, while the skin crisps up beautifully on the grill.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilled Baked Potatoes
Here’s where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect grilled baked potatoes every time.
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Clean Thoroughly:
Begin by scrubbing your potatoes under running water. Remove all dirt since you’ll want to eat the skin. - Dry Completely:
Moisture can cause uneven cooking. Use a clean towel to pat each potato dry thoroughly. - Poke Holes:
Use a fork to poke several holes all over the potato. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the potato from bursting.
Story Moment: I still remember the first time I skipped poking holes—let’s just say I was cleaning potato bits off the grill lid for weeks.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Now it’s time to infuse flavor.
- Brush with Olive Oil:
Use a basting brush to coat each potato in a light layer of olive oil. This helps create that irresistible crispness. - Add Salt:
Sprinkle salt generously over the oiled potatoes. You want even coverage for balanced flavor. - Foil or No Foil:
- For soft skin: Wrap each potato in aluminum foil.
- For crispy skin: Leave the potatoes unwrapped and place them directly on the grill grates.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
- Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium heat (about 400°F). Preheating ensures even cooking. - Position the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates or over indirect heat if wrapped in foil. - Close the Lid:
This traps the heat, creating an oven-like environment that cooks the potatoes evenly. - Turn Regularly:
Rotate the potatoes every 15 minutes to prevent burning. - Test for Doneness:
Insert a fork or skewer—it should slide in effortlessly. If you’re a numbers person, aim for an internal temperature of 210°F.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
The final step is where your work pays off.
- Cool Slightly:
Let the potatoes rest for 5–10 minutes after removing them from the grill. - Slice and Fluff:
Use a knife to cut open each potato lengthwise. Fluff the insides with a fork for a light, airy texture. - Top It Off:
Add toppings of your choice. From butter and sour cream to shredded cheese and bacon bits, the possibilities are endless.
Creative Variations to Try
- Loaded Potatoes: Add crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Garlic Herb Potatoes: Mix olive oil with minced garlic and Italian seasoning for a savory twist.
- Sweet Potatoes: Grill sweet potatoes with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet-savory side.
Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Potatoes
- Consistent Sizing: Choose potatoes of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Oil Alternatives: Try avocado oil for a subtle, nutty flavor or butter for richness.
- Toppings Hack: Prep a toppings bar at your next barbecue for guests to customize their potatoes.
Common Grilling Mistakes and Fixes
Undercooked Potatoes
- Issue: Potatoes aren’t soft enough inside.
- Fix: Move them to a hotter part of the grill or extend the cooking time.
Burned Skin
- Issue: The skin is charred beyond crispiness.
- Fix: Use indirect heat or reduce the grill temperature slightly.
Dry Interior
- Issue: Potatoes lack moisture.
- Fix: Wrap them in foil and baste with oil during grilling.
FAQs About Grilled Baked Potatoes
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet?
Yes! Sweet potatoes grill beautifully and offer a slightly different flavor profile.
How Long Should I Grill Potatoes?
Cooking time ranges from 45–60 minutes, depending on size and heat level.
What’s the Best Topping Combination?
Try butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of crispy bacon for a classic combo.
Can I Cook Potatoes on a Charcoal Grill?
Absolutely! Use indirect heat for the best results.
Do I Have to Wrap Them in Foil?
No. Foil is optional and depends on whether you want soft or crispy skin.
Conclusion: Fire Up the Grill!
You now have all the tools and knowledge to create the best baked potatoes on the grill. Whether it’s a family barbecue, a quiet dinner, or a side for your favorite steak, this recipe delivers every time. So what are you waiting for? Grab your potatoes, fire up that grill, and start making memories around the table.
