Grilled Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Seasoned and Crispy Sides

Grilled potatoes are a delightful addition to any summer barbecue or family gathering, and they never fail to impress with their smoky flavor and crispy texture. As someone who has always cherished the art of grilling, I can confidently say that grilled potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a culinary experience that brings people together. Historically, potatoes have been a staple in many cultures around the world, celebrated for their versatility and heartiness. When grilled, they take on a whole new dimension, absorbing the flavors of herbs and spices while achieving that perfect char.

What I love most about grilled potatoes is their incredible taste and convenience. They are easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, yet they deliver maximum flavor. Whether you prefer them seasoned simply with salt and pepper or dressed up with garlic and rosemary, grilled potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Join me as we explore the best ways to prepare these delicious morsels that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if you have it)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Potatoes

First things first, let’s get our potatoes ready. I love using baby potatoes because they’re tender and cook evenly, but you can use any small potatoes you have on hand.

1. Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove any dirt or debris.
2. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This step is important because we want the olive oil and seasonings to stick well.
3. Next, cut the potatoes in half. If you have larger baby potatoes, you can quarter them to ensure they cook evenly on the grill.

Seasoning the Potatoes

Now that our potatoes are prepped, it’s time to add some flavor!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper, but you can adjust to your taste.
2. Whisk the mixture together until it’s well combined. The olive oil should be nicely blended with the spices.
3. Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture. Make sure every potato is coated evenly. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure they’re all covered!

Prepping the Grill

While the potatoes are soaking up all that delicious flavor, let’s get the grill ready.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for grilling potatoes, giving them a nice char without burning.
2. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and have a nice layer of ash on them.
3. For gas grills, simply turn on the burners and close the lid for about 10-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
4. Once the grill is hot, you can use a grill basket or skewers to make grilling easier. If you’re using skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Grilling the Potatoes

Now comes the fun part—grilling!

1. If you’re using a grill basket, simply place the seasoned potatoes inside and close the lid. If you’re using skewers, thread the potatoes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.
2. Place the grill basket or skewers on the grill. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You want them to be golden brown and tender.
3. To check for doneness, pierce a potato with a fork. If it goes in easily, they’re ready! If not, give them a few more minutes.
4. Once they’re done, remove the potatoes from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle.

Assembling and Serving

Now that our grilled potatoes are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve them up!

1. Transfer the grilled potatoes to a serving platter. I like to arrange them in a nice, colorful way to make them look appealing.
2. If you want to add a little extra flavor, drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve the grilled potatoes warm as a side dish. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or even on their own as a tasty snack!

Tips and Variations

Conclusion:

In summary, this grilled potatoes recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game. The combination of crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, infused with your choice of seasonings, makes these potatoes a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fresh salads, or even as a stand-alone snack. You can easily customize the flavors by experimenting with different herbs, spices, or even adding cheese for an extra indulgent twist. I encourage you to gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and give this recipe a go. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own special touch? What did you serve alongside? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below or on social media. Let’s inspire each other to make the most of our grilling adventures! Remember, grilled potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a canvas for your culinary creativity. Happy grilling!

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