Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite side dishes – Grilled Baked Potatoes! Just the thought of them makes my mouth water. I remember the first time I tried this recipe at a family barbecue. My uncle was the grill master, and he came up with this genius idea of grilling the potatoes instead of just baking them in the oven. I instantly fell in love with the smoky flavor and the perfectly crispy exterior. Ever since that day, grilling has been my go-to method for making baked potatoes!
What makes these Grilled Baked Potatoes so special is how they soak up all those delicious grill flavors while still being fluffy and tender on the inside. Whether you’re serving them at a summer cookout or cozying up with a hearty winter meal, these potatoes are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab your grill, and let’s get started!
What’s in Grilled Baked Potatoes?
Potatoes: The star of the show! I usually go for russet potatoes because they have that lovely starchy quality that yields a fluffy interior when cooked. Size matters here — medium to large potatoes work best on the grill!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the potato skins get that crispy texture we all adore. I like to use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor.
Salt: A good sprinkle of sea salt enhances the potatoes’ flavor, and it’s essential for that “baked potato” taste.
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a little kick. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preferences!
Optional Toppings: The best part! Who doesn’t love sour cream, chives, cheese, or bacon on their baked potatoes? I can’t resist adding some melted cheddar and crispy bacon bits on top!
Is Grilled Baked Potatoes Good for You?
Alright, let’s talk health! Grilled Baked Potatoes can be a nutritious addition to your meal when prepared mindfully.
Potatoes: They are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. As a comfort food staple, they provide energy and are low in calories, making them an excellent hearty side dish.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Just be mindful of the amount you use to keep the dish light.
Now, if you load up on toppings like cheese and bacon, you might want to keep an eye on your portion sizes if you’re watching your fat and sodium intake. But hey, life’s all about balance, right? Treat yourself occasionally!
Ingredients
– 4 medium russet potatoes (serves 4)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits
How to Make Grilled Baked Potatoes?
1. First things first, preheat your grill to medium heat. If you have a charcoal grill, let those coals get good and hot.
2. While the grill is heating up, wash the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt, and then pat them dry with a towel.
3. Prick each potato several times with a fork. This helps steam escape during cooking and prevents any potato explosions—trust me, you don’t want that!
4. Rub the potatoes all over with olive oil, and then sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about 45-60 minutes, turning them every 15 minutes so they cook evenly.
6. To check if they’re done, insert a fork into the largest potato; it should slide in easily. If they’re not quite ready, just pop them back on the grill for a little longer.
7. Once done, carefully remove the potatoes from the grill (they will be hot, so maybe use tongs!). Let them cool for a few minutes, then slice them open and add your favorite toppings.
Grilled Goodness Awaits!
Here’s a little tip: for added flavor, you can even wrap the potatoes in foil before placing them on the grill. This steams them while also enhancing that smoky flavor! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even throw some garlic or herbs into the foil packet for an extra flavor kick.
Okay, now it’s your turn! Try these Grilled Baked Potatoes at your next barbecue or even just for a cozy night at home. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you. Enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite, and don’t forget to share your experiences! Happy grilling!
