Grilled baked potatoes are a tasty and easy side dish. They have a wonderful smoky flavor from the grill and a fluffy interior that melts in your mouth!
Who doesn’t love the crispy skin? It’s like a little surprise that makes every bite better. I love topping mine with butter, cheese, and a sprinkle of chives—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for baking thanks to their fluffy texture. If you can’t find russets, Idaho potatoes work well too, but avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they won’t give you that nice fluff.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor, but feel free to use regular olive oil or even melted butter for a richer taste. If you’re looking for something lighter, try avocado oil instead!
Fresh Parsley: This adds a bright touch at the end. If you don’t have parsley on hand, chives or cilantro can be a lovely alternative. Dried herbs can also work—just use less since they are more potent.
Seasonings: Garlic powder or onion powder can really elevate the flavor. You can mix in your favorite spices, like paprika or cayenne, if you want to add a little heat!
How Do I Grill Potatoes to Perfection?
Getting grilled potatoes just right is all about the preparation and timing. Start by ensuring they’re well-oiled and seasoned before they hit the grill. Here’s how to ensure they come out perfectly cooked:
- Clean and dry the potatoes well to avoid moisture that can cause steaming instead of grilling.
- Cut them lengthwise to create a larger surface area for grilling, maximizing those beautiful grill marks and giving them a great texture.
- Make sure the grill is preheated; this helps achieve a nice crust on the potatoes.
- Cooking cut-side down first seals in moisture. Don’t rush the cooking time—let them get fork-tender before flipping.
- Always check for doneness with a fork—it should easily pierce right through!
How to Make Grilled Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: garlic powder or onion powder for seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe should take about 30-40 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to prep the potatoes and about 20-25 minutes for grilling. Get ready for a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Scrub the skin well to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important to make sure your potatoes don’t stick to the grill.
3. Cut the Potatoes:
Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise. You will end up with two halves for each potato. This helps them cook faster on the grill and makes for a great presentation.
4. Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the potato halves with the olive oil until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you’d like, such as garlic powder or onion powder. Mix well to make sure all sides are seasoned.
5. Grill the Potatoes:
Place the potato halves cut-side down directly on the hot grill. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for them to become fork-tender and to have nice grill marks. Don’t forget to close the lid to maintain the heat!
6. Flip and Finish Grilling:
Once the cut sides are nicely grilled, carefully flip the potato halves so the skin side is down. Grill for an additional 5-10 minutes until they are fully cooked and crispy on the outside.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the grilled potatoes from the grill and let them cool slightly. This helps avoid any burns when eating!
8. Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the grilled baked potatoes with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled baked potatoes as a flavorful side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a fluffy texture, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes for a creamier taste. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the potato type.
How Can I Prepare Potatoes in Advance?
You can wash and cut the potatoes a few hours ahead of time. Just cover them with water to prevent browning. If you want to prepare them further, you can season them with olive oil and spices, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or toss them back on the grill for a few minutes to regain that grilled flavor!
Can I Use an Oven Instead of a Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the potatoes cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even texture. This gives you delicious baked potatoes without a grill.
