Cooking a baked potato on the grill is a delicious way to enjoy this classic dish with a smoky, grilled flavor. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you effectively cook a baked potato on the grill:
Choose the right potatoes: Look for medium to large-sized potatoes that are uniform in shape. Russet potatoes are a popular choice for baking due to their fluffy texture.
Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400°F (175-200°C). If you have a gas grill, light the burners on one side only, leaving the other side unlit. For a charcoal grill, spread the hot coals on one side.
Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Optionally, you can brush some olive oil or melted butter over the potatoes and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and other preferred seasonings to add extra flavor.
Wrap the potatoes: Individually wrap each potato in heavy-duty aluminum foil. Make sure to wrap them tightly, leaving no gaps. The foil helps to steam the potatoes and keep them moist during grilling.
Place on the grill: Once the grill is preheated, place the wrapped potatoes directly on the grate over the unlit side (for gas grills) or on the opposite side of the coals (for charcoal grills). Position them away from the direct heat to prevent burning.
Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the grill's temperature. Generally, it takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour for medium to large-sized potatoes to cook thoroughly. To check for doneness, insert a fork or skewer into the center of the potato; it should easily pierce through the flesh.
Optional finish (for crispy skins): If you prefer crispy skins, you can remove the potatoes from the foil and place them directly on the grill over direct heat for a few minutes. This step adds a nice char to the skin.
Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked to your desired doneness and have a crispy skin (if preferred), remove them from the grill. Let them cool for a minute or two before unwrapping, as they will be very hot. Slice the potatoes open, and add your favorite toppings, such as butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits, or any other toppings you like.
Enjoy your delicious grilled baked potatoes! They make a perfect side dish for grilled meats or as a standalone meal with a variety of toppings.