How to Make Baked Potatoes on the Grill

Baked potatoes are a timeless comfort food, known for their fluffy interior and crispy, seasoned skin. While traditionally prepared in the oven, grilling baked potatoes adds a smoky depth of flavor that enhances their taste and texture. Whether wrapped in foil for a tender bite or grilled directly for a crunchy, charred crust, grilling is a fantastic way to prepare baked potatoes while enjoying the outdoors. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making perfectly grilled baked potatoes, from selecting the right type to cooking them to perfection.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to grilling. The best types for baked potatoes are:

• Russet Potatoes: These are the most popular choice because of their thick skin and starchy interior, which results in a light and fluffy texture.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: If you prefer a creamier inside with a slightly firmer bite, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative.

When selecting potatoes, try to choose ones that are similar in size. This ensures that they cook evenly on the grill without some finishing earlier than others.

Preparing the Potatoes

Preparation is key to making flavorful and evenly cooked grilled baked potatoes. Follow these steps to get them ready for the grill:

1. Wash and Scrub: Potatoes grow underground, so they often have dirt on their skin. Scrub them thoroughly under running water to remove any residue.
2. Dry Completely: Moisture can prevent the skin from crisping up properly. Use a paper towel or kitchen cloth to dry them completely.
3. Poke Holes: Use a fork to pierce the potatoes a few times. This allows steam to escape during grilling, preventing the potatoes from bursting.
4. Coat with Oil or Butter: Rubbing the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter helps crisp up the skin while also adding flavor.
5. Season Generously: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.

Wrapping or Direct Grilling

There are two primary methods for grilling baked potatoes: foil-wrapped and direct grilling. Each method has its benefits depending on the texture and taste you prefer.

Foil-Wrapped Method

• Wrapping potatoes in aluminum foil traps moisture, creating a softer interior while preventing the skin from getting too crispy.
• This method is great for adding seasonings, butter, or even cheese inside the foil for extra flavor infusion.
• Wrap the potatoes in two layers of foil for better heat retention and to avoid burning.

No-Foil (Direct) Grilling Method

• Placing potatoes directly on the grill without foil results in a crispier, smokier flavor.
• This method requires more frequent turning to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Brushing the potatoes with oil before grilling helps prevent them from sticking and enhances crispiness.

Cooking on the Grill

Once your potatoes are prepped and ready, it’s time to start grilling.

Direct Heat vs. Indirect Heat

• Indirect Heat: This method is ideal for whole potatoes. Place them on a cooler side of the grill or over an unlit burner if using a gas grill. This allows them to cook slowly and evenly without burning.
• Direct Heat: Works well for cut or halved potatoes. If you’re cooking smaller pieces, use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.

Temperature and Cooking Time

• Ideal Grill Temperature: 375°F to 450°F. Cooking at this temperature ensures the potatoes cook through without burning the skin.
• Cooking Time: 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. If they are particularly large, they may take slightly longer.
• Testing for Doneness: Insert a fork or knife into the potato. If it slides in easily, they are ready. You can also use a food thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 210°F.

Serving and Topping Ideas

Once your potatoes are perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve them with delicious toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your grilled baked potatoes:

Classic Toppings

• Butter and Sour Cream: A simple yet delicious combination.
• Cheese and Chives: Shredded cheddar or gouda melts beautifully on a hot potato.
• Bacon Bits: Adds a smoky, crunchy texture.

Creative Toppings

• BBQ Pulled Pork: A hearty and flavorful option for a full meal.
• Chili and Cheese: Top with homemade chili and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese: A gourmet twist for seafood lovers.
• Avocado and Salsa: A fresh and healthy topping with a Tex-Mex flair.

Cutting Techniques for Serving

• Split Open: Slice the potato down the middle and fluff the inside with a fork.
• Smashed: Press down lightly to break the skin, creating a crispier surface.
• Cubed: Dice into bite-sized pieces and mix with toppings for a loaded potato salad.

Tips and Variations

If you’re short on time or want to experiment with different flavors, try these helpful tips and variations:

• Speed Up Cooking Time: Microwave the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before grilling. This pre-cooks the inside, reducing grilling time.
• Grilled Potato Wedges or Slices: If you don’t have time for whole baked potatoes, slice them into wedges or rounds and grill for 15-20 minutes.
• Add Smoke Flavor: Use wood chips like hickory or mesquite to add a subtle smoky aroma.
• Infused Butter: Mix melted butter with garlic, herbs, or spices and brush onto the potatoes for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling baked potatoes is a fantastic way to add depth of flavor and a crispy texture to this classic side dish. Whether you prefer the tenderness of foil-wrapped potatoes or the crispiness of direct-grilled ones, this method is simple and rewarding. Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to customize your grilled potatoes to your taste. So fire up your grill, grab some potatoes, and enjoy this delicious, smoky twist on a classic favorite.