Grilling potatoes is one of the best ways to enjoy this humble vegetable with a smoky, crispy twist. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a barbecue or just want a tasty side dish, grilled potatoes are a crowd-pleaser. But how do you cook potatoes on the grill so they come out tender inside and crispy outside? Let’s dive into the easy steps and tips to master grilled potatoes every time.
Why Grill Potatoes?
Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor that you can’t get from boiling or baking alone. Plus, grilled potatoes develop a golden, crunchy crust while staying soft and fluffy inside. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, veggies, or just a fresh salad.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
– Russet potatoes are great for grilling because of their starchy texture that crisps well.
– Yukon Gold and red potatoes also work but tend to cook faster and are softer, so handle gently.
– Smaller potatoes or wedges cook more evenly and quickly on the grill.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Potatoes on the Grill
1. Parboil the Potatoes
Start by parboiling (partially boiling) your potatoes. This step softens them so they cook evenly on the grill without burning.
– Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
– Scrub potatoes well and cut into chunks or wedges.
– Boil for about 5-8 minutes until just tender but still firm.
– Drain and let them dry.
You can parboil potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day to speed up grilling later.
2. Season and Oil
Place the parboiled potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Add your favorite seasonings such as:
– Garlic powder (avoid fresh garlic to prevent burning)
– Salt (sea salt flakes or kosher salt work best)
– Black pepper
– Optional herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, or paprika for extra flavor
Mix well so every piece is coated.
3. Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). You can grill potatoes directly on the grates, on a grill pan, or wrapped in foil.
– For direct grilling, place potatoes on the grates.
– For foil packets, lay potatoes on foil, seal, and place on the grill.
4. Grill the Potatoes
– Grill for about 5-8 minutes per side if grilling directly, turning often to get a nice golden crust.
– If using foil packets, cook covered for 20 minutes, then open foil and grill uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to crisp up.
– Keep an eye on the potatoes to avoid burning and flip regularly for even cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once golden brown and crispy outside, and tender inside, remove from the grill. Sprinkle with fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm as a perfect side dish.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Potatoes
– Parboiling is key: It ensures potatoes cook through and get soft inside without burning on the grill.
– Use high heat: A hot grill helps create that crispy, golden crust.
– Flip often: Turning potatoes regularly ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
– Prep ahead: Parboil potatoes a day before to save time on grilling day.
– Experiment with seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, herbs, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese add layers of flavor.
– Use foil for easy cleanup: Foil packets keep potatoes moist and make cleanup a breeze.
Different Ways to Grill Potatoes
– Direct on grill grates: Gives maximum crispiness but requires careful flipping.
– Foil packets: Great for softer, steamed potatoes with a bit of char.
– Grill basket or pan: Keeps smaller pieces from falling through and makes stirring easy.
Final Thoughts
Grilling potatoes is simple, versatile, and delicious. With a little prep and the right technique, you’ll have crispy, flavorful potatoes that complement any grilled meal. So next time you light up the grill, don’t forget the potatoes-they just might steal the show!
Ready to try? What seasoning combo will you use on your grilled potatoes?