Baking potatoes on a BBQ is a fun and delicious way to cook potatoes outdoors. With a few simple tips, you can achieve oven-baked potato perfection on the grill.
Ingredients
- Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. Make sure they are similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper
- Butter, sour cream, chives, cheese etc. for serving
Equipment
- Gas or charcoal grill
- Aluminum foil
- BBQ tools – tongs, spatula, etc.
Steps
Prep the Potatoes
- Choose potatoes that are similar in size. This allows them to cook evenly. Russets or Yukon golds are great baking potatoes.
- Wash the potatoes well and dry them thoroughly.
- Poke holes all over the potato skins using a fork. This allows steam to escape while baking so the potatoes don’t explode.
- Coat the potatoes lightly in olive oil or vegetable oil. This helps the skin get extra crispy.
- Season the potato skins generously with salt and pepper.
Grill the Potatoes
- Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium heat, about 375-400°F.
- Lay out a large sheet of heavy duty aluminum foil. Place the oiled and seasoned potatoes in the center of the foil.
- Fold up the sides of the foil to make a sealed pouch around the potatoes. Make sure the seal is tight.
- Place the foil pouch directly on the preheated grill grates.
- Grill the potatoes for 60-90 minutes, flipping the pouch over halfway through. The potatoes are done when you can easily insert a fork or skewer all the way through.
- Carefully open the foil pouch and remove the potatoes using tongs or a spatula. Be cautious of escaping steam.
Finish and Serve
- Slice the potatoes open lengthwise. Fluff the insides with a fork.
- Add your favorite baked potato toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, chili, broccoli, etc.
- Enjoy your amazing grilled baked potatoes!
Tips
- Choose potatoes of equal size so they cook evenly.
- Poke holes in the potatoes before baking to allow steam to escape.
- Lightly oil and generously season the skins for extra crispness and flavor.
- Grill them in a tightly sealed foil pouch to lock in moisture.
- Cook for 60-90 minutes, flipping halfway through. They are done when easily pierced with a fork.
- Let rest 5 minutes before carefully opening the pouch to avoid burns.
- Fluff the insides with a fork and load up with your favorite toppings.
FAQs
What kind of potatoes work best?
Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for baking whole on the grill. Their starchy, fluffy texture bakes up light and tender inside. Avoid red or white potatoes as they tend to get mushy when baked.
How long does it take to grill baked potatoes?
Depending on the size of your potatoes, they will take 60-90 minutes to fully bake through. Make sure to flip them halfway for even cooking. They are fully cooked when a fork or skewer easily pierces through the middle.
Should I wrap the potatoes in foil on the grill?
Yes, wrapping the potatoes in foil is essential for baking them on the grill. The foil pouch steams them perfectly inside and prevents them from burning. Be sure to seal the edges tightly.
Can I grill bake potatoes directly on the grates?
It’s best to avoid placing whole baking potatoes directly on the grill grates. They will likely burn on the outside before the insides fully cook through. The foil pouch allows them to steam bake evenly throughout.
What temperature do I bake potatoes on the grill?
Aim to keep your grill between 375-400°F, which is medium heat. This prevents the outside from charring before the middle cooks through. Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature.
How do I know when they’re done?
Test for doneness by piercing the center with a fork or skewer. If it slides through smoothly, they are fully baked inside. The potato should feel tender all the way through when squeezed.
Conclusion
Grilling baked potatoes is an easy, fun way to enjoy this classic side dish outdoors. Prepping the spuds by poking holes, oiling, and seasoning the skin ensures they turn out crispy and flavorful. Be sure to seal them in a foil pouch on medium heat for 60-90 minutes, flipping halfway. Let rest before opening and loading up with your favorite creamy or crunchy toppings. With these simple tips, you’ll be a master at baking juicy, tender potatoes on the barbecue.