Potatoes are one of the most versatile and beloved foods out there. You can fry them, bake them, mash them, and even turn them into vodka (if you’re feeling adventurous).
But have you ever tried grilling them? If not, then you’re missing out on a whole world of flavor that could be yours.
Grilled potatoes are a mouthwatering side dish that perfectly complements all your favorite grilled meats and veggies.
They’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and they make you feel like you’re sitting around a campfire, even if you’re just in your backyard.
In this article, we’re going to give you the ultimate grilled potato recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
From choosing the right potatoes to grilling them to perfection, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
We’ll also share some flavor variations and serving suggestions, so you can keep your taste buds on their toes.
So, fire up the grill and get ready to transform a humble potato into a delicious side dish that will steal the show at your next barbecue.
What Are the Best Potatoes for Grilling?
When it comes to grilling potatoes, not all spuds are created equal. Some varieties of potatoes are better suited for grilling than others. Here are some of the best types of potatoes for grilling:
- Yukon Gold: These potatoes are a popular choice for grilling because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture that makes them perfect for roasting.
- Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are another great option for grilling because they have thin skins and a waxy texture that helps them hold their shape.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be grilled just like regular potatoes, and they add a slightly sweet and savory flavor to your dish.
- Fingerling Potatoes: These small, thin potatoes are perfect for grilling because they cook quickly and have a crispy texture.
No matter which type of potato you choose, make sure to pick ones that are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. And remember to scrub the potatoes thoroughly and remove any blemishes or eyes before grilling.
Preparing the Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes
To prepare the perfect grilled potatoes, it’s important to choose the right type of potato.
As mentioned earlier, waxy varieties like Yukon Gold and Red Potatoes work well, but you can also use sweet potatoes or fingerling potatoes.
Make sure to choose potatoes that are firm and free of any soft spots, sprouts, or green patches.
Cutting the potatoes into the right size and shape
Once you’ve chosen your potatoes, it’s time to cut them into the right size and shape for grilling.
For larger potatoes, slice them into rounds that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. If using smaller potatoes, you can cut them in half or leave them whole.
The key is to ensure that the potato pieces are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
Seasoning the potatoes before grilling
Before grilling, you’ll want to season your potatoes with your preferred blend of herbs and spices.
A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, or you can get more creative and use a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and toss to coat them evenly in the seasoning. For added flavor, you can also add diced onions or bell peppers to the mix. Once the potatoes are well-seasoned, they’re ready for the grill!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Grilled Potatoes : Step By Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Place the potatoes on the grill, and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and browned on the outside.
- Remove the potatoes from the grill and serve hot.
Optional: you can also add other herbs or spices to the potatoes, or sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor. Enjoy!
Determining when the potatoes are cooked
The easiest way to tell if your potatoes are cooked is to pierce them with a fork or skewer. If the fork goes through the potato slices easily, then they are done.
You can also check for a crispy golden-brown exterior, which is a good indication that the potatoes are cooked through. Once your potatoes are done, remove them from the grill and serve them up hot and crispy!
Flavor Variations of Grilled Potatoes
Spicing up the potatoes with different seasonings and herbs
Spicing up the potatoes with different seasonings and herbs: There are so many ways to add flavor to grilled potatoes.
In addition to the basic salt and pepper seasoning, you can try experimenting with different herbs and spices.
For example, you can add chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the potatoes before grilling.
You can also use seasoning blends like cajun seasoning or lemon-pepper seasoning to add a bit of zest to your potatoes.
Adding toppings to the potatoes
Another way to spice up your grilled potatoes is by adding toppings. Here are a few topping ideas to try out:
- Shredded cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese on top of the grilled potatoes for a cheesy twist.
- Bacon bits: Crumbled bacon bits add a savory crunch to the potatoes.
- Sour cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top of the potatoes for a creamy finish.
- Chives: Freshly chopped chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing grilled potatoes with different main dishes
Grilled potatoes are versatile side dishes that pair well with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas to try:
- Grilled steak: Serve grilled potatoes alongside a juicy grilled steak for a classic steakhouse dinner.
- Grilled chicken: Grilled potatoes are a perfect complement to grilled chicken, whether you serve them alongside grilled chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
- Grilled fish: Grilled potatoes also pair well with grilled fish like salmon or trout, adding a savory element to the dish.
- Vegetarian mains: For vegetarians or vegans, grilled potatoes can be paired with a variety of main courses, like grilled vegetables or a quinoa salad.
Serving grilled potatoes as a stand-alone dish
Grilled potatoes can also be served as a stand-alone dish, whether as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. Here are some ideas to try:
- Grilled potato salad: Toss grilled potatoes with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing for a hearty salad.
- Loaded grilled potatoes: Top grilled potatoes with sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and shredded cheese for a loaded potato dish.
- Skewered potatoes: Cut potatoes into small pieces and skewer them with veggies and meats for a fun, handheld snack.
- Grilled potato wedges: Cut potatoes into wedges and grill them until crispy for a delicious side dish or snack. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Reheating Grilled Potatoes
Grilled potatoes can be easily reheated in the oven or on the grill. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven or grill to 350°F.
- If the potatoes are whole, slice them into smaller pieces.
- Place the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet or grill grates.
- Reheat the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
- If you want to crisp up the potatoes, you can place them under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Alternatively, you can reheat the potatoes in a covered dish in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. However, reheating in the oven or on the grill will give the potatoes a crispier texture and help maintain their flavor.
Freezing Grilled Potatoes
Grilled potatoes can be frozen, but their texture may change slightly after thawing and reheating. If you do decide to freeze your grilled potatoes, here’s how to do it:
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely to room temperature.
- Transfer the potatoes to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the potatoes for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat the potatoes, remove them from the freezer and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven or on the grill using the instructions in the previous answer. However, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may be slightly softer or mushier after freezing, so they may not be quite as crisp as when they were first grilled.
Nutrition Facts
The general nutritional facts for one medium-sized potato (about 173g) that has been grilled without any added oil or toppings:
- Calories: 168
- Fat: 0.2g
- Sodium: 14mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
It’s important to note that adding oil, cheese, or other toppings can significantly increase the calorie and fat content of grilled potatoes. However, potatoes are a good source of fiber and nutrients like vitamin C and potassium, making them a healthy and nutritious addition to any meal.
FAQs About Grilled Potatoes Recipe
What kind of potatoes should I use for grilling?
You can use any type of potato for grilling, but some of the best varieties include red potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes, and fingerling potatoes.
How should I cut the potatoes for grilling?
Cut the potatoes into slices, wedges, or cubes, depending on your preference. Just make sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
How long does it take to grill potatoes?
It usually takes about 15-20 minutes to grill potatoes, but this can vary depending on the size and thickness of the potatoes and the heat of your grill.
How should I season the potatoes before grilling?
You can season the potatoes with a variety of herbs and spices, like garlic, rosemary, thyme, or paprika. Toss them in olive oil and seasonings before grilling.
Can I make grilled potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or on the grill.
Can I grill potatoes in a foil packet?
Yes, grilling potatoes in a foil packet is a great way to ensure they cook evenly and don’t fall through the grates. Just wrap the potatoes in foil and place them on the grill.
Can I grill potatoes on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, you can grill potatoes on a stovetop grill pan. Just heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and grill the potatoes for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, grilled potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that can be prepared in many different ways.
To make the perfect grilled potatoes, start by choosing the right potatoes, cutting them into the right size and shape, and seasoning them before grilling.
Preheat the grill, and grill the potatoes until they are cooked to perfection. To add some variety, experiment with different seasonings, toppings, and cooking techniques.
Grilled Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Place the potatoes on the grill, and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and browned on the outside.
- Remove the potatoes from the grill and serve hot.
- Optional: you can also add other herbs or spices to the potatoes, or sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts
The general nutritional facts for one medium-sized potato (about 173g) that has been grilled without any added oil or toppings:- Calories: 168
- Fat: 0.2g
- Sodium: 14mg
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
