Elevate Your Summer Cookouts: How To Gas Grill Baked Potatoes Like A Pro

Baked potatoes, a classic culinary staple, have been elevated to new heights with the convenience of gas grilling. By harnessing the power of direct and indirect heat, you can achieve irresistibly crispy skins and fluffy interiors that will delight your taste buds. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the art of gas grilling baked potatoes:

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The foundation of a great baked potato lies in selecting the perfect spuds. Look for Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, which have a high starch content and a thick skin that holds its shape well during grilling.

Preparing the Potatoes

Before grilling, thoroughly scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pierce them with a fork multiple times to allow steam to escape during grilling. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Setting Up the Grill

Prepare your gas grill for indirect heat cooking by turning on only one burner on one side of the grill. Place a foil-lined drip pan under the unlit burner to catch any drippings.

Grilling the Potatoes

Place the potatoes on the side of the grill without the lit burner. Cover the grill and cook the potatoes over indirect heat for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Browning the Skins

Once the potatoes are tender, move them directly over the lit burner and grill for 5-10 minutes per side, or until the skins are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become dry and tough.

Resting and Serving

Remove the potatoes from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting them open. This allows the heat to distribute evenly throughout the potato, resulting in a fluffy and evenly cooked interior. Serve the potatoes with your favorite toppings, such as butter, sour cream, cheese, or chili.

Tips for Perfect Gas-Grilled Baked Potatoes

• Use a grill brush to clean the grill grates: This prevents the potatoes from sticking and ensures even grilling.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the potatoes enough space to cook evenly and achieve a crispy skin.
• Flip the potatoes regularly: This ensures that they cook evenly on all sides.
• Check for doneness frequently: Use a fork to pierce the potatoes and check if they are tender.
• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings to add flavor and variety to your baked potatoes.

Variations on Gas-Grilled Baked Potatoes

• Garlic Herb Potatoes: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the olive oil and seasoning before grilling.
• Bacon-Wrapped Potatoes: Wrap the potatoes in bacon before grilling for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Twice-Baked Potatoes: Scoop out the cooked potato flesh, mix it with your favorite fillings, and stuff it back into the potato skins before grilling again.

Wrapping Up

Gas grilling baked potatoes is a straightforward and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these steps and experimenting with different variations, you can create perfectly crispy and fluffy potatoes that will impress your family and friends. So, fire up your grill and embark on a culinary adventure with these gas-grilled baked potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to grill baked potatoes on a gas grill?
A: Grilling time varies depending on the size and number of potatoes. Generally, you can expect to grill them for 45-60 minutes over indirect heat and 5-10 minutes per side over direct heat for browning.

Q: Can I grill baked potatoes in foil?
A: Grilling baked potatoes in foil is not recommended as it can prevent the potatoes from developing a crispy skin.

Q: What is the best way to season baked potatoes before grilling?
A: Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor.