Grilled Baked Potatoes

I’ve always believed that the simplest recipes often bring the most comfort. One summer evening, while hosting a casual backyard barbecue, I decided to toss a few seasoned potatoes onto the grill alongside the usual meat and vegetables. The result was a pleasant surprise — golden, crispy skins with a perfectly soft and fluffy center. From that day on, grilled baked potatoes became a staple in my home and on my blog. Every time I make them, I’m reminded of that easygoing evening filled with laughter, smoky aromas, and the joy of discovering something unexpectedly delicious.

You’re going to love this grilled baked potatoes recipe for so many reasons. First of all, it’s incredibly easy. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or simply want a break from the oven, this recipe is straightforward and reliable. Plus, it gives you an irresistibly crispy skin and tender interior every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile
These grilled baked potatoes pair beautifully with nearly any dish. Whether you’re serving chicken skewers, grilled beef steaks, or a vegetarian platter, these potatoes fit right in. You can also load them with various toppings like vegan sour cream, grilled vegetables, or shredded chicken for a hearty main dish.

Budget-Friendly
With just three basic ingredients — potatoes, oil, and salt — this is a recipe that doesn’t stretch your budget. Potatoes are inexpensive and widely available, yet the end result tastes like something truly special.

Ingredients for Grilled Baked Potatoes

To make this delicious side dish, you’ll only need a few pantry staples:

• 6 medium Potatoes – It’s best to select potatoes that are uniform in size so they cook evenly on the grill. Russets are a great choice due to their fluffy interior.

• 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil – Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil. It helps achieve that golden, crispy skin.

• 0.5 teaspoon Sea Salt – A small amount of sea salt goes a long way in boosting the overall flavor of the potatoes.

  How to Make Grilled Baked Potatoes

  Making these grilled baked potatoes couldn’t be simpler, yet the results are impressive every time. From preparation to grilling, each step plays a part in creating that signature crispy skin and soft interior. Even if it’s your first time grilling potatoes, this guide ensures success.

  Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Grilled Baked Potatoes

  Step 1: Clean the Potatoes Properly
  Before anything else, start by thoroughly washing your potatoes under running water. Because we’ll be eating the skin, it’s important to scrub them well with a brush or your hands to remove all dirt. Then, dry each potato with a kitchen towel. Clean potatoes cook better and taste fresher.

  Step 2: Poke Holes for Steam Release
  Using a fork, carefully pierce each potato several times. This step may seem minor, but it allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents the potatoes from bursting. It also helps the interior cook evenly while maintaining a fluffy texture.

  Step 3: Oil and Salt for Perfect Skins
  Next, drizzle neutral oil over each potato. Rub it all over the skin to ensure even coating. The oil creates that golden, crispy crust that makes grilled potatoes stand out. Immediately after, sprinkle sea salt on each potato. The salt enhances the natural flavor and contributes to a pleasant exterior texture.

  Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
  Before placing the potatoes on the grill, it’s important to preheat it to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F or 200°C. This temperature allows for consistent cooking, ensuring the outside becomes crisp while the inside turns soft. Always preheat with the lid closed for even heat distribution.

  Step 5: Grill with the Lid Closed
  Place the potatoes directly onto the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for around 40 to 50 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them occasionally. This step ensures that all sides cook evenly and the skins develop an even crisp.

  Step 6: Check for Doneness
  After about 40 minutes, test the doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of one potato. If it slides in easily without resistance, the potatoes are ready. If not, close the lid and let them cook for an additional 5–10 minutes.

  Step 7: Let Cool and Serve
  Once done, remove the potatoes from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the interior steam to settle, making them easier to handle and fluffier inside. Then, cut a slit in each potato and gently push from the ends to open them. Now, they’re ready for toppings!

  Quick and Easy
  This recipe proves that a few simple steps are all you need. No foil, no fuss — just real, grilled flavor in under an hour. While it’s hands-off most of the time, you still get that rewarding crisp outside and tender core.

  Customizable
  One of the best things about these potatoes is how easy they are to customize. Prefer herbs? Add rosemary or thyme before grilling. Want a filling meal? Add shredded beef or sautéed mushrooms inside once cooked. Going dairy-free? Use plant-based butter or vegan cheese. The base recipe is solid, and the rest is up to your creativity.

  Crowd-Pleasing
  Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a barbecue or preparing a weekday dinner, these grilled baked potatoes satisfy everyone. Because they’re so simple, you can focus on your main dishes while these cook in the background. Guests can even top their own potatoes — making the meal interactive and fun.

  Additionally, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan (without toppings), which makes them a great option for guests with dietary preferences. There’s something comforting about biting into that crisp shell and finding a warm, fluffy center — it’s a texture combination that rarely fails.

  Grilled baked potatoes fit any occasion. Serve them beside grilled chicken, vegan skewers, or summer salads. You’ll notice they disappear quickly, especially when paired with toppings like herbed yogurt, salsa, or melted plant-based butter.

  Once you’ve made these once, they’ll become a regular in your rotation. Let’s now go over some frequently asked questions to help you get even more confident with this recipe.

  FAQs

  Can I make grilled baked potatoes without oil?
  Yes, you can skip the oil if needed, but keep in mind that the skins won’t get as crispy. The oil helps them brown and adds flavor. However, brushing with a little water and sprinkling salt still gives a decent texture.

  What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
  Russet potatoes are the best choice due to their thick skins and fluffy interiors. They hold up well on the grill and deliver that classic baked potato texture.

  Can I pre-cook the potatoes before grilling?
  Absolutely. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the potatoes for 5–6 minutes or boil them partially, then finish them on the grill for crispy skin and added flavor.

  How do I store leftovers?
  Let the potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

  Can I make these on an indoor grill or grill pan?
  Yes, an indoor grill or grill pan works too. Just maintain medium-high heat and cover the potatoes with a lid or foil to trap the heat and mimic an outdoor grill.

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  Grilled Baked Potatoes

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  These grilled baked potatoes are perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Ideal as a side or standalone dish, they’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and suitable for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing recipe that fits almost any menu.

  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 6 medium potatoes (choose uniform-sized for even cooking)

  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or vegetable)

  • 0.5 teaspoon sea salt

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  Instructions

  • Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt, then dry them with a kitchen towel.

  • Use a fork to poke several holes into each potato to allow steam to escape during grilling.

  • Drizzle the oil over the potatoes and rub it evenly across the skins.

  • Sprinkle sea salt over each potato to enhance flavor and encourage crisping.

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).

  • Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 40 to 50 minutes. Turn the potatoes occasionally to cook all sides evenly.

  • Test for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a potato; it should glide in easily.

  • Once done, remove from the grill. Let cool slightly, then cut open and add desired toppings.

  Notes

  • Russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffy interiors.

  • For softer skins, wrap potatoes in foil before grilling (optional).

  • Customize with toppings like vegan sour cream, herbs, or shredded chicken.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes