Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe
If you’re longing for that perfect blend of smoky flavor with a comforting, fluffy center, this Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe is about to become your summer go-to. Grilling potatoes might sound simple, but it unlocks a depth of taste and texture that just can’t be matched by the oven alone. Wrapped in foil to lock in moisture and kissed by the grill’s heat, each potato comes out tender on the inside and rich with that subtle charred aroma on the outside, making it a star side dish or even a hearty main when loaded with your favorite toppings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever ate baked potatoes any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that mouthwatering outcome. From the hearty russet potatoes that provide a great fluffy texture, to the olive oil or melted butter that helps create a beautiful, flavorful skin, every item has a job that combines texture, taste, and a little grill magic.
- 4 large russet potatoes: These are perfect for grilling due to their size and starchy interior, resulting in a fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: Adds flavor and helps the potato skins crisp up beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural potato flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick that balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Elevates the taste with a subtle savory note.
- Foil for wrapping: Keeps the potatoes moist while allowing them to cook evenly on the grill.
- Toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits (optional): Personalize your potatoes with your favorite add-ons for extra indulgence.
How to Make Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Grill and Potatoes
Begin by heating your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F or 200°C. While it warms up, wash your russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry to ensure the seasoning sticks and the skin crisps nicely when grilled. Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato; this step is key to letting steam escape during cooking, so your potatoes don’t burst.
Step 2: Season and Wrap
Rub each potato generously with olive oil or melted butter — this not only adds flavor but also helps the skins develop that gorgeous grilled texture. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you love that extra savory depth. Next, wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil to lock in moisture and protect them from direct flame flare-ups on the grill.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place your foil-wrapped potatoes directly on the grill grates. Close the lid to trap heat and smoke, cooking the potatoes for about 45 to 60 minutes. Turn them every 15 minutes or so to make sure they cook evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce one with a fork and it feels soft and tender inside.
Step 4: Optional Crispy Skin Finish
If you’re craving crispier potato skin, unwrap the foil in the last 10 minutes and place the potatoes back on the grill. You could also move them to the upper rack of your grill to avoid flare-ups while they get that little extra crunch and smoky char.
How to Serve Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this baked potato recipe isn’t just in the potatoes themselves, but in how you dress them up. Classic toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, and crispy bacon bits create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Feel free to get creative—some diced avocado, salsa, or even a dollop of chili can elevate your potato to a meal-worthy dish.
Side Dishes
Baked potatoes from the grill make an ideal companion to a range of dishes. Think perfectly grilled steaks, chicken skewers, or even smoky grilled vegetables. Their neutral yet satisfying taste pairs wonderfully with almost anything BBQ-related, providing a hearty, filling element without overpowering your main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing your grilled baked potatoes into wedges after fluffing the insides and stacking them with layers of cheese and bacon for a loaded potato tower. Or hollow them out slightly and stuff with a mixture of sautéed veggies and cheese for a more upscale twist. This Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe is flexible and a fantastic base for inventive plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover grilled baked potatoes, store them wrapped tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days, retaining much of their flavor and moisture.
Freezing
Freezing grilled baked potatoes isn’t ideal if you want to keep that crispy skin, but you can freeze the fluffy interior by scooping it out before freezing. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag and use within 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat gently for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftover grilled baked potatoes, use your oven or grill if you want to revive some of that crispy skin texture. Heat at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving works too if you’re in a hurry, but do lose out slightly on the skin’s crispness.
FAQs
Can I use potatoes other than russets for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that waxier potatoes won’t fluff up the same way and may have slightly different cooking times.
Do I have to wrap the potatoes in foil?
Wrapping in foil locks in moisture and helps cook the potatoes evenly on the grill without burning. If you prefer crispy skin, you can unwrap them for the last 10 minutes of cooking, but fully grilling them unwrapped from the start can lead to uneven cooking and flare-ups.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The best test is to pierce the potato with a fork or skewer. If it slides in easily without resistance, your potato is perfectly cooked and soft inside.
Can I add spices or herbs to the potatoes before grilling?
Absolutely! Besides the garlic powder suggested, feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, rosemary, thyme, or even chili powder to customize the flavor to your liking.
What are some good vegan toppings for grilled baked potatoes?
Simple and delicious options include guacamole, sautéed mushrooms, fresh salsa, vegan cheese, or a drizzle of tahini. You can create a fully satisfying vegan meal with your grilled potatoes as the base.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe is a stunning way to enjoy an old favorite with a fresh, smoky twist. It’s straightforward, rewarding, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes — perfect for a casual backyard BBQ or a comforting weeknight side. Give it a try, and I promise these grilled baked potatoes will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation, delighting family and friends every time.
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Baked Potatoes On The Grill Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a classic twist on baked potatoes by cooking them over a grill. These grilled baked potatoes come out tender on the inside with a deliciously smoky flavor, perfect as a side for grilled meats or a hearty vegetarian main dish. Wrapped in foil and seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, they are easy to prepare and versatile with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Seasoning & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Additional
- foil for wrapping
- toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C), to ensure it is hot enough to cook the potatoes evenly.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes clean under running water and pat them dry with a towel. Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato; this allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents bursting.
- Season and Wrap: Rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter to coat the skin. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil to lock in moisture while grilling.
- Grill the Potatoes: Place the foil-wrapped potatoes directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 45 to 60 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender inside.
- Serve: Carefully remove the potatoes from the grill and unwrap the foil. Slice open each potato, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Notes
- For crispier skin, unwrap the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of grilling.
- You can cook the potatoes on the upper rack of the grill to avoid flare-ups from dripping oil or fat.
- These grilled baked potatoes are an excellent side dish for grilled meats or can be topped with various ingredients for a filling vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
