Grilled baked potatoes are a delightful way to enjoy the classic comfort food we all love. Achieving that perfect harmony between crispy skin and fluffy, tender insides is simpler than you might think. By grilling, you add a smoky flavor and a satisfying texture that make these potatoes a star on any BBQ menu. Whether topped with butter, sour cream, or gourmet trimmings, these grilled baked potatoes offer an irresistible bite every time.

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Ingredients Overview

Russet Potatoes for their fluffy texture and thick skin, which crisp up beautifully on the grill; Neutral Oil (such as avocado oil) with a high smoke point to prevent burning and promote even crisping; and Coarse Salt to season and draw out moisture, creating that perfectly crispy, flavorful skin.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions

Grilling these potatoes is a straightforward process that brings out their best flavors and textures.

Preparing the Potatoes:
Begin by thoroughly washing the russet potatoes to remove any dirt. Use a fork to prick the potatoes several times, creating small holes that allow steam to escape during cooking. Next, coat each potato generously with a neutral oil like avocado oil, ensuring an even layer that will help crisp the skin. Lightly roll the oiled potatoes in coarse salt to create a thin, crunchy layer that enhances both texture and flavor.

Microwaving for Efficiency:
To shorten the grilling time and ensure that the potatoes cook evenly, microwave them for about 4 minutes. This step softens the insides, so when you transfer them to the grill, they’ll cook faster and more uniformly. The microwave acts as a time-saver without compromising on that smoky, grilled flavor.

Grilling to Perfection:
Once the potatoes are prepared, wrap each one securely in two sheets of aluminum foil. This traps the steam, allowing the potatoes to cook through while preventing burning. Place the foil-wrapped potatoes directly onto the grill grates and close the lid. Cook for 30 to 40 minutes, ensuring the lid remains shut to maintain a consistent temperature. Opening the lid too often will release heat, prolonging cooking time. After 30 minutes, check for doneness by gently unwrapping one potato and piercing it with a fork—if the fork slides in easily, the potatoes are ready.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the Best Potatoes:
Select medium-sized russet potatoes as they cook evenly and provide the perfect balance of crispy skin and fluffy interior.

Achieving Crispy Skin:
Make sure to coat the potatoes thoroughly with oil and salt; this helps create a crispy texture that pairs well with the soft interior.

Importance of Foil Wrapping:
Wrapping the potatoes in foil retains moisture, ensuring that the inside cooks fully while the skin crisps up without burning.

Experimenting with Seasonings:
Feel free to get creative by using flavored oils like garlic or rosemary-infused oil. You can also sprinkle the potatoes with herbs like thyme or smoked paprika before grilling for an extra layer of flavor.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, while russets are ideal, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a creamier texture.

How long should I cook the potatoes if I skip the microwave step?
If you skip microwaving, the grilling time will extend to approximately 60 minutes or until the potatoes are soft when pierced.

Can I grill the potatoes without using foil?
It’s possible, but you risk burning the skin. Foil helps distribute heat evenly, so the potatoes cook through while retaining moisture.

How do I store leftover grilled potatoes?
Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven to regain some of the crispiness.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Grilled baked potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them a versatile side for any meal.

Grilled Meats:
These potatoes are an excellent match for grilled steaks, chicken, or sausages, as their smoky flavor complements the meat’s charred notes.

Fresh Salads:
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich, buttery flavor of the potatoes.

Vegetable Sides: Pair these grilled potatoes with roasted vegetables or grilled corn on the cob for a wholesome, well-rounded meal.

Topping the potatoes is where the fun begins. Classic options like sour cream, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, and chives are always a hit. For a more gourmet twist, try adding crumbled blue cheese, truffle oil, or a drizzle of garlic butter.

Topping Suggestions and Variations

Elevate your grilled baked potatoes with unique toppings and creative variations that bring new flavors to the table.

Gourmet Toppings:
For a sophisticated touch, top your potatoes with a dollop of crème fraîche, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Drizzle with truffle oil or add shaved Parmesan for an elevated flavor profile.

Loaded Baked Potatoes:
Transform your grilled potatoes into a meal by piling on toppings like chili, melted cheese, jalapeños, and avocado slices. This variation turns a simple side into a hearty main dish.

Twice-Baked Grilled Potatoes:
Scoop out the potato flesh after grilling, mix it with cheese, bacon, and green onions, and return it to the skins. Grill again until the tops are golden and bubbly for a decadent twist.

Once your potatoes are done grilling, slice them lengthwise and gently press the ends to open them up. Fluff the interior with a fork to create a light, airy texture, and immediately add your toppings to allow the heat of the potato to melt cheeses and butter. For presentation, serve the potatoes on a wooden platter or directly off the grill to showcase their rustic appeal. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these grilled baked potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
4 medium-sized russet potatoes, uniformly sized
Coarse salt (enough to coat the potatoes)

Instructions

Begin by preheating your grill to 350°F, keeping the lid shut. As the grill heats up, take one russet potato and place it in a medium-sized bowl. Poke the potato several times with a fork, ensuring to make small holes across its surface. Drizzle a bit of neutral oil over the potato, coating it evenly. Repeat this process for the remaining potatoes.

Next, fill another medium bowl with enough salt to cover its bottom completely. Roll each oiled potato in the salt, ensuring they receive a light and even layer of salt all around. Once coated, transfer each potato to a microwave-safe plate or bowl.

Place the prepared potatoes in the microwave and cook them all together on high power for 4 minutes. After microwaving, carefully remove the potatoes and wrap each one tightly in two layers of aluminum foil.

Place the foil-wrapped potatoes directly onto the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, keeping the lid shut to maintain consistent heat. Note: Avoid opening the grill lid frequently, as this will extend the cooking time.

After about 30 minutes, begin testing the potatoes for doneness. Carefully unwrap one potato slightly and use a fork or skewer to pierce through the skin. The potato is ready when the fork or skewer goes through effortlessly without resistance. Once done, remove all the potatoes from the grill.

Unwrap the potatoes and discard the foil. To serve, slice each potato lengthwise down the center and gently press the ends together to open up the middle. Fluff the soft interior with a fork, and add your favorite toppings immediately. Enjoy!