Introduction
Potatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many delicious ways on the barbecue. Whether you want to grill potatoes as a side dish or feature them as the main event in foil packs, skewers or baked potatoes, cooking potatoes on the grill results in a smoky, charred flavor that can’t be beat.
With a few simple tips, you can learn how to BBQ a variety of potato dishes to perfection. From choosing the right potato type to prepping and cooking methods, this guide will cover everything you need to know for grilling potatoes successfully. Read on for tips, tricks and recipes to create your next delicious potato side or entree straight from the barbecue.
Choosing the Right Potato Type
The type of potato you select will impact the texture and flavor of the final grilled product. Waxy, low starch potatoes such as red potatoes or new potatoes hold their shape well when grilled. Higher starch Russet or russet potatoes fluff up more when cooked, making them ideal candidates for baked potatoes or grilled potato wedges.
For potato skewers or slices, waxy potatoes are the best choice as they will be firm and won’t fall apart on the grill. Small, whole new potatoes also grill up nicely, providing tender bites of potato.
Preparation Tips
Proper preparation is key for potatoes that cook evenly on the barbecue and have a crispy exterior. Here are some tips:
- Clean potatoes well – Give potatoes a good scrub with a vegetable brush under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them thoroughly before grilling.
- Slice evenly – Cut potatoes into equal sized wedges or slices so they cook at the same rate. Aim for 1/2 inch thickness.
- Parboil firmer varieties – For potatoes like Russets that are less waxy, parboil them for 5-7 minutes before grilling to help them cook through. Drain and dry well before placing on the hot grill.
- Toss in oil and seasonings – Coat potato slices or wedges in a bowl with olive oil or vegetable oil and seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder or chili powder. The oil helps them brown.
- Use skewers for small potatoes – Thread whole mini potatoes or large chunks onto skewers to keep them together on the grill. Soak wooden skewers beforehand so they don’t burn.
Grilling Methods
There are several different ways to cook potatoes on the barbecue. Choose a method based on the prep you have done and type of potato:
Direct Grilling
This works well for thinner sliced or wedged potatoes that can cook quickly over direct heat. Grill over medium-high heat for 12-18 minutes total, flipping occasionally until browned and fork tender.
Indirect Grilling
If grilling larger potato chunks or whole baked potatoes, use indirect heat. Place potatoes over unlit heat on one side, with lit burners on the other. Close the lid and grill for 45-60 minutes until fully cooked through.
Foil Packs
For a quick and easy potato dish, place sliced potatoes in foil packs with olive oil, seasoning and other veggies if desired. Seal packs and grill for 20-30 minutes over indirect heat with the lid closed.
Skewers
Thread cubed or whole mini potatoes onto skewers. Grill over direct heat for 15-20 minutes total, rotating the skewers to cook evenly. Brush with oil and seasonings.
Twice Baked Potatoes
Bake whole potatoes first in the oven until just fork tender. Cut in half, scoop out flesh and mix with butter, cheese, bacon or other fillings. Place back on grill cut side down to crisp for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Grilled Potato Recipes
Now that you know the basics, here are some must-try grilled potato recipes:
Parmesan Herb Potato Wedges
Toss 1 lb red potato wedges in olive oil, salt, pepper and 2 Tbsp each finely grated Parmesan cheese and minced fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme or oregano. Grill over medium heat 15 minutes until browned and crisp-tender, turning occasionally.
BBQ Chicken and Potato Foil Packs
In foil packs, combine sliced potatoes, chicken breasts, sliced onion, BBQ sauce and seasoning. Seal packs and grill 25-30 minutes over indirect heat until chicken and potatoes are cooked through.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Bake large Russet potatoes on the grill over indirect heat for 60-90 minutes until soft all the way through. Cut in half and top with crispy bacon bits, cheddar cheese, green onion and sour cream.
Mediterranean Potato Skewers
Thread whole mini potatoes and cherry tomatoes alternately onto skewers. Brush with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt. Grill over direct heat 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender, turning occasionally.
Spicy Grilled Potato Salad
Cube a few larger potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss with oil, chili powder and cumin. Grill over direct heat until browned and tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Toss with a vinaigrette dressing while warm. Add chopped onion, cilantro and a pinch of cayenne. Chill before serving.
Handy Tips for Grilled Potatoes
Follow these simple tips for foolproof grilled potatoes:
- Use a grill basket for small or sliced potatoes that could fall through grill grates.
- After grilling, toss potatoes with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese or salsa for extra flavor.
- For added smoky flavor, toss potatoes with smoked paprika before grilling.
- Brush grilled potatoes with a flavored butter compound like herb or garlic butter when they come off the grill.
- If potatoes start to burn on the grill, move them to a cooler area of the grill to finish cooking.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to check for doneness. Potatoes are done at an internal temp of 210°F.
With the proper techniques and recipes, you can enjoy tender, smoky grilled potatoes all summer long. Experiment with different seasonings and potato prep methods to find your new go-to grilled potato dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to grill potatoes?
The best way depends on the type and size of your potatoes. For wedges or thick slices, direct grilling over medium-high heat works well. For whole small potatoes or larger chunks, use indirect grilling with the lid closed to cook through. You can also wrap sliced potatoes in foil packs.
How long does it take to grill potatoes?
Grilling time can vary from 15 minutes for thin slices to over an hour for whole large potatoes. Parboil firmer potatoes first to reduce grilling time. Use a thermometer to check for 210°F internal temperature.
What temperature should you grill potatoes?
Aim for medium-high heat between 400-450°F for direct grilling potatoes. For indirect grilling or foil packs, use a lower heat around 350°F with the grill lid closed to cook potatoes through without burning.
Should you parboil potatoes before grilling?
Parboiling isn’t required but can help speed up cooking time. It’s a good idea for larger or firmer potatoes like Russets. Boil 5-7 minutes until partially cooked but still quite firm. Avoid overcooking which could lead to mushy potatoes.
How do you stop potatoes sticking to the grill?
Proper preparation and grilling methods will prevent sticking. Coat potato slices and wedges in oil before grilling. Use a clean, well-oiled grill and don’t move the potatoes too early while grilling. Allow them to develop a crust before flipping.
How can you add more flavor to grilled potatoes?
After grilling, toss potatoes with minced garlic, fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, spicy seasonings or chimichurri sauce. Compound butters with ingredients like parsley, chili powder or lemon also add great flavor to hot grilled potatoes.
Can you grill sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be grilled in the same ways as regular potatoes. They may cook slightly faster due to their softer flesh. Take care not to overcook them. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully on the grill.
Are foil packs on the grill healthy?
Yes, foil packs can be a very healthy cooking method. Packs allow you to grill without any added fat and the potatoes steam right in the pack with seasonings. Be mindful of added sauces or oil and balance with vegetables and lean protein.
Conclusion
Grilling potatoes is easy and adds delicious smoky flavor. With the right potato type, preparation, and cooking method, you can enjoy tender grilled potatoes as a perfect barbecue side or entree. Experiment with different seasonings and recipes until you find your favorite way to savor the taste of potatoes hot off the grill.