How to Make Baked Potatoes on the Grill: Step-by-Step Guide

Baked potatoes are a staple side dish, but when you cook them on the grill, they take on a smoky, flavorful twist that enhances their taste. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or just want to avoid heating up the kitchen, grilling baked potatoes is an easy and delicious option. In this guide, we’ll take you through the entire process step by step, from selecting the right potatoes to serving them with your favorite toppings.

Why Grill Baked Potatoes?

Grilling baked potatoes offers several advantages over traditional oven baking:

• Enhanced Flavor: The grill imparts a smoky, slightly charred taste that complements the natural flavors of the potato.
• Crispier Skin: Grilling creates a crispy, well-seasoned skin that is often better than oven-baked versions.
• Energy Efficient: You don’t have to heat up your kitchen with the oven, making it a great choice for warm weather cooking.
• Versatile Cooking: You can cook them alongside other grilled foods for a complete meal.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make perfect grilled baked potatoes, you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or your preferred variety)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt for better texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or rosemary
• Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, butter

Equipment:

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil (optional, for wrapping)
• Tongs for flipping
• Meat thermometer (optional, but useful for checking doneness)

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior. Yukon Golds and red potatoes can also be used, but they’ll have a creamier texture.

Wash and Dry

Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the oil and seasoning stick well.

Poke Holes in the Potatoes

Using a fork, poke holes all around each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking. This helps prevent them from bursting on the grill.

Season the Potatoes

• Rub each potato with olive oil or melted butter for a crispy and flavorful skin.
• Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over each potato.
• Add any optional seasonings to enhance the taste.

Step 2: Wrapping or Direct Grilling?

You have two main options when grilling baked potatoes: wrapping them in foil or placing them directly on the grill grates.

Foil-Wrapped Method

• Wrap each potato tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• This method steams the potatoes, resulting in softer skin and a tender interior.
• Ideal for those who prefer a moist, buttery texture.

Direct Grilling (No Foil)

• Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the grill grates.
• Produces a crispier skin and a smokier flavor.
• Requires more attention to prevent burning.

Step 3: Grilling the Potatoes

Grilling with Direct Heat (Faster Method)

• Preheat the grill to 375-400°F.
• Place the potatoes on the grates, flipping every 10-15 minutes.
• Cooking time is about 45-60 minutes.
• Use a skewer or fork to check for tenderness; it should slide in easily.

Grilling with Indirect Heat (Slower Method)

• Preheat the grill to 375°F but only light half of the burners or push coals to one side (for charcoal grills).
• Place the potatoes on the cooler side of the grill.
• Close the lid and cook for 60-75 minutes, turning occasionally.
• This method ensures even cooking and prevents excessive charring.

Step 4: Checking for Doneness

• The internal temperature should reach 205°F for a perfectly cooked potato.
• If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the potato with a fork or skewer. It should slide in effortlessly.
• If they feel firm, grill for another 10 minutes and check again.

Step 5: Serving and Topping Idea

Once your potatoes are perfectly grilled, it’s time to dress them up!

Classic Toppings:

• Butter and sour cream
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda)
• Fresh chives or green onions
• Bacon bits

Creative Toppings:

• Guacamole and salsa for a Tex-Mex twist
• Pulled pork or grilled chicken for a hearty meal
• Blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions
• Sautéed mushrooms and truffle oil

Cut the potatoes open, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings before serving.

Bonus Tips for the Best Grilled Baked Potatoes

• Speed Up Cooking: Microwave potatoes for 5 minutes before grilling to reduce grilling time by half.
• For Extra Crispy Skin: After grilling, remove foil (if used) and place the potatoes directly on the grill for the last 5 minutes.
• Add a Smoky Flavor: Use wood chips (like hickory or mesquite) in a charcoal grill for an extra smoky taste.
• Make Ahead Tip: Grill potatoes in advance, wrap in foil, and keep them warm in a cooler for up to 2 hours.

Final Thoughts

Baked potatoes on the grill are a fantastic addition to any cookout. They’re easy to prepare, pair well with a variety of main dishes, and can be customized to fit any flavor preference. Whether you wrap them in foil for a moist texture or grill them directly for a crispy skin, you’ll end up with a delicious side dish that’s sure to impress.

So next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to throw on a few potatoes. Experiment with different seasonings and toppings, and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors that only grilling can bring!