If you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic baked potato, why not try grilling it? Grilling your baked potatoes can add a smoky, charred flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s a great way to free up oven space if you’re already grilling up some meat or veggies.
To get started, you’ll need to choose the right potatoes. Russet potatoes are the most commonly used for baking and grilling because of their starchy texture and neutral flavor. You’ll also want to make sure your potatoes are clean and dry before grilling. Once you’ve prepped your potatoes, it’s time to start grilling!
Grilling your baked potatoes can be done in a variety of ways, from wrapping them in foil to cooking them directly on the grill grates. You’ll want to make sure to cook them over indirect heat for the best results. There are also a variety of seasonings and toppings you can use to customize your grilled baked potatoes to your liking. With a little practice, you’ll be grilling up perfect baked potatoes in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Grilling your baked potatoes can add a smoky, charred flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Russet potatoes are the most commonly used for baking and grilling because of their starchy texture and neutral flavor.
- Cooking your baked potatoes over indirect heat and using a variety of seasonings and toppings can help you customize your grilled baked potatoes to your liking.
Choosing and Prepping Your Potatoes
Selecting the Right Potatoes
When it comes to grilling baked potatoes, choosing the right type of potato is crucial. Russet potatoes are the preferred choice due to their high starch content, which gives them a fluffy texture when baked. Look for potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Preparation Before Cooking
Before cooking, it’s important to properly prepare your potatoes. Here are the steps to follow:
- Wash your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the potato. This will allow steam to escape while cooking and prevent the potato from exploding.
- Coat your potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle with salt. This will help the skin crisp up and add flavor to the potato.
- Wrap each potato in aluminum foil. This will help the potato cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to perfectly grilled baked potatoes.
Grilling Techniques
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV8kWkpICEc&embed=true
Grilling a baked potato on the grill is a simple and easy way to enjoy a delicious side dish with your meal. There are two main techniques for grilling a baked potato: with foil and without foil.
Grilling With Foil
Grilling a baked potato with foil is a popular method because it helps to cook the potato evenly and prevents it from burning. To grill a baked potato with foil, start by preheating your grill to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit for two-zone cooking (one side with indirect heat, one side with direct heat).
Next, rinse and scrub the potatoes to clean them and remove excess dirt. Then, wrap each potato in a piece of 18-inch heavy-duty aluminum foil. Drizzle each washed potato with olive oil and season well with salt and pepper.
Place the wrapped potatoes on the indirect heat side of the grill and close the lid. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the potatoes from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes before unwrapping and serving.
Grilling Without Foil
Grilling a baked potato without foil is another option for those who prefer a crispy skin. To grill a baked potato without foil, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (375 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit).
Next, brush the potatoes in melted butter or olive oil and prick them all over with a fork. Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Cook for about 30 minutes, then flip the potatoes and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes.
When grilling without foil, it’s important to keep an eye on the potatoes to prevent them from burning. If the skin starts to char, move the potatoes to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.
In conclusion, both methods are effective for grilling a baked potato on the grill. Whether you choose to use foil or not, make sure to season the potatoes well and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Seasoning and Topping Ideas
Basic Seasoning
When it comes to seasoning your baked potatoes on the grill, less is often more. A simple sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper can go a long way in enhancing the natural flavors of the potato. Brushing the potato with olive oil before seasoning can also help the skin crisp up nicely.
If you want to add a little more flavor, try rubbing the potato with minced garlic before grilling. Another option is to mix some herbs like rosemary or thyme into your olive oil before brushing it onto the potato.
Delicious Toppings
Once your baked potato is off the grill, it’s time to add some delicious toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
-
Butter and Chives: A classic combination that never disappoints. Top your potato with a pat of salted butter and a sprinkle of chopped chives.
-
Cheese and Bacon: For a heartier option, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits over your potato.
-
Seasoning Salt: If you’re looking for a little extra flavor, try seasoning your potato with a blend of seasoning salt and black pepper.
-
Herb Butter: Mix chopped herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme into softened butter, then spread it over your baked potato.
-
Sour Cream and Chives: A tangy dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives is a simple yet delicious topping for a baked potato.
No matter how you choose to season and top your baked potato, be sure to let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSLcB3idE54&embed=true
« How to Clean a Charcoal Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide
Best Briquettes for Charcoal Grills: A Comprehensive Guide »
Baked potatoes on the grill are a versatile dish that can be served as a side or main course. They can also be customized with various toppings and seasonings to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started.
Serving as a Side Dish
Grilled baked potatoes make a great side dish for grilled meat, such as chicken, pulled pork, or ribs. They are also a perfect complement to prime rib or other beef dishes. To serve as a side, simply top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped chives or scallions. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese or crumbled bacon for added flavor.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider serving grilled sweet potatoes instead of traditional baked potatoes. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and have a natural sweetness that pairs well with smoky flavors. Simply slice the sweet potatoes into rounds, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper before grilling.
Serving as a Main Course
Grilled baked potatoes can also be served as a main course, especially if you add some protein and vegetables to the mix. For example, you can top a baked potato with grilled chicken and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can stuff a baked potato with pulled pork or chili for a hearty and filling dish.
To add some smoky flavor to your potatoes, try adding a handful of wood chips to your grill. Hickory, mesquite, and applewood are all great options for adding flavor to your grilled potatoes.
Overall, grilled baked potatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you serve them as a side or main course, with classic toppings or something more creative, they are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or dinner party.
Nutritional Information and Storage
Nutritional Facts
Baked potatoes on the grill are a delicious and healthy side dish that you can enjoy with your family and friends. One medium-sized potato (5.2 oz) contains approximately 110 calories, 0.2 grams of total fat, 0 grams of saturated fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 26 grams of total carbohydrates, 2 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams of protein, and 17 mg of sodium.
Potatoes are also rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. One medium-sized potato provides about 620 mg of potassium, which is about 14% of the daily recommended intake. Potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, muscle contractions, and nerve impulses. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage and boosts your immune system. One medium-sized potato contains about 27 mg of vitamin C, which is about 30% of the daily recommended intake. Vitamin B6 is important for brain development, immune function, and the production of red blood cells. One medium-sized potato contains about 0.3 mg of vitamin B6, which is about 20% of the daily recommended intake.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover baked potatoes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the grill.
To reheat them on the grill, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them on the grill over indirect heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also slice them into wedges and grill them for a few minutes on each side until they are crispy and golden brown.
Remember to always store your leftover baked potatoes properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure their freshness and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vr-o01qiRYI&embed=true
Can I cook baked potatoes on the grill without foil?
Yes, you can cook baked potatoes on the grill without foil, but it’s not recommended. The foil helps to keep the potatoes moist and prevents them from burning on the grill. If you don’t use foil, you’ll need to be careful not to overcook the potatoes. You can also try wrapping the potatoes in parchment paper or using a potato grilling rack.
What’s the difference between grilling potatoes and baking them in the oven?
Grilling potatoes gives them a smoky flavor and crispy skin that you can’t get from baking them in the oven. When you grill potatoes, the heat is coming from below, which creates a charred crust on the outside of the potato. Baking potatoes in the oven cooks them evenly and gives them a softer skin.
How long does it take to grill a baked potato?
The cooking time for grilled baked potatoes will depend on the size of the potato and the temperature of your grill. Generally, it takes about 45-60 minutes to grill a large potato. You can test if the potato is done by piercing it with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, the potato is done.
Should I poke holes in the foil when baking potatoes on the grill?
Yes, you should poke holes in the foil when baking potatoes on the grill. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from becoming mushy. You can poke holes in the foil before wrapping the potatoes or after they’ve been wrapped.
What’s the best way to grill sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes can be grilled in the same way as regular potatoes. You can wrap them in foil or grill them directly on the grates. Sweet potatoes will take longer to cook than regular potatoes, so plan for about 60-75 minutes of grilling time.
Why do people soak potatoes before grilling them?
Soaking potatoes before grilling them can help to remove excess starch and prevent them from sticking to the grill. You can soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling them. This can also help to prevent the potatoes from turning brown.
