How to Bake a Potato on the BBQ

One of our favorite side dishes is potatoes. We love ‘em! You can fry them, boil them, mash them, and roast them. But what about a BBQ baked potato?  Even though it might not be the first cooking method that comes to mind, a barbecued potato is about as good as it gets. That’s why we’re going to go in-depth on how to bake a potato on the BBQ,

A BBQ baked potato is seasoned and wrapped tight in foil then placed on the grill to cook through. This allows the potato to become soft and flavorful. 

We love to make them nice, juicy, and crispy for a whole-hearted and filling meal. 

BBQ Baked Potato

​Baked potatoes are a quintessential side dish at top barbecue steak houses, complementing a wide array of meals with their hearty and versatile nature. Mastering the art of baking a potato on the BBQ is straightforward, and the best part is its compatibility with numerous dishes.​

Our preferred pairing for BBQ baked potatoes is alongside a succulent prime rib or a perfectly grilled steak. However, the possibilities don’t end there. Many enthusiasts enjoy barbecue baked potatoes topped with classic fixings like sour cream, chives, bacon bits, butter, and melted cheese. For a more substantial meal, consider loading a BBQ potato with tender brisket or pulled pork, transforming it into a satisfying main course.​

All this talk is making us hungry—how about you? Fortunately, we’ve crafted a step-by-step guide on how to bake a potato on the BBQ in no time at all. Impress your guests at the next big summer barbecue with this delightful baked potato recipe.​

So, let’s get cooking!

How to Bake a Potato on the BBQ

Here is our step-by-step guide to how to bake a potato on the grill or BBQ. First of all, you will need:

Ingredients

• 4 large baking/russet potatoes (more if serving more people)
• ⅓ cup of olive oil
• 2 tbsp of salt
• 2 tbsp of pepper

For the topping:

• Cubes of butter
• Sour cream
• Chopped up chives
• Bacon bits
• Parmesan cheese

Grilling baked potatoes infuses them with a delightful smoky flavor and a crispy skin that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re aiming to complement a juicy steak or create a hearty main course topped with your favorite ingredients, mastering the art of BBQ baked potatoes is a valuable skill. Let’s delve into the steps to achieve that perfect grilled spud.

The Prep

Preparation is the cornerstone of a perfectly grilled baked potato. Here’s how to set the stage:

1. Select and Clean Your Potatoes: Opt for large, starchy varieties like Russet potatoes, known for their fluffy interiors and sturdy skins that crisp up beautifully on the grill. Thoroughly scrub each potato under cold running water to remove any dirt. While it’s essential to eliminate blemishes or eyes, keep the skins intact, as they contribute significantly to the texture and flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Aim for a medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and that desirable crispy skin. Close the lid during this process to retain heat.
3. Dry and Season: After washing, pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel. Moisture can hinder the crisping process. Rub each potato generously with olive oil or melted butter; this not only aids in achieving a crispy exterior but also adds a rich flavor. Season liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. For an extra flavor boost, consider sprinkling garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a hint of cayenne pepper.
4. Wrap in Foil (Optional): While not mandatory, wrapping each potato in two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil can help retain moisture and facilitate even cooking. However, if you prefer an ultra-crispy skin with a more pronounced smoky flavor, you might choose to grill the potatoes unwrapped. Keep in mind that unwrapped potatoes may cook faster and require more attentive turning to prevent charring.

On the Grill

With your potatoes prepped and your grill heated, it’s time to cook:

1. Placement: Position the potatoes on the grill grates over indirect heat. This means placing them away from the direct flames or burners, allowing for gentle, even cooking without burning the skins. If your grill has multiple burners, turn off one section and place the potatoes there, using the lit burners to maintain the overall grill temperature.
2. Cooking Time: Grill the potatoes for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on their size and the grill’s exact temperature. Every 15-20 minutes, rotate them to ensure even cooking and prevent any side from becoming overly charred.
3. Checking for Doneness: To determine if your potatoes are ready, gently squeeze one with heat-resistant gloves or tongs; it should yield slightly under pressure. Alternatively, insert a skewer or fork into the center; it should slide in effortlessly. For a precise measure, use an instant-read thermometer—the internal temperature should register between 205-210°F (96-99°C).
4. Crisping the Skin: If you’ve used foil and desire a crispier skin, carefully unwrap the potatoes during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling and place them directly over direct heat. Monitor closely to avoid burning, turning as needed.

The Result

Once grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve:

1. Handling: Using tongs, remove the potatoes from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This brief resting period allows the internal steam to redistribute, ensuring a moist and fluffy interior.
2. Serving Suggestions: Slice each potato lengthwise, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings. Classic options include a pat of butter, a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits. For a heartier meal, top with pulled pork, brisket, or even a ladle of chili. The smoky flavor of the grilled potato pairs exceptionally well with these savory additions.
3. Pairings: These BBQ baked potatoes make a fantastic side dish alongside grilled meats like steak, ribs, or barbecue chicken. Alternatively, load them up with hearty toppings to serve as a satisfying main course.

Tips for BBQ Baked Potatoes

Enhance your grilling experience with these additional insights:

• Speeding Up the Process: If you’re short on time, pre-cook the potatoes in the microwave for 4-5 minutes before grilling. This reduces grill time and ensures the insides are thoroughly cooked. Alternatively, parboil them for 5-8 minutes, then proceed with seasoning and grilling.
• Poking Holes: Piercing the potatoes with a fork before cooking allows steam to escape, preventing potential bursting and promoting even cooking.
• Foil Wrapping: While foil can aid in even cooking and moisture retention, omitting it can result in a crispier skin with a more robust smoky flavor. Choose based on your texture preference.
• Flavor Infusions: For an added depth of flavor, consider inserting slivers of garlic into the potato before grilling or brushing the skin with herb-infused oils.
• Leftovers: Grilled baked potatoes store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or slice and pan-fry for crispy potato wedges.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll master the art of grilling baked potatoes, delivering a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether as a side or the star of the meal, BBQ baked potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re grilling up a steak and need a side, or potatoes are what’s for dinner, I hope this guide on how to bake a potato on the BBQ helped give you some ideas for how to get the most out of your grill!