Ready to Transform Simple Potatoes into a Grill Masterpiece?
Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled potatoes – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with smoky flavor. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal. Let’s get grilling!
Why You’ll Love It
- Incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
- The smoky char from the grill adds an irresistible depth of flavor that baking alone can’t replicate.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish with almost anything – burgers, chicken, steak, or even vegetarian options.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs, spices, and even cheeses for endless variations.
- Visually stunning presentation that will impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What sets this grilled potatoes recipe apart is the parboiling step. Unlike throwing raw potatoes directly on the grill, parboiling them first ensures that the insides are perfectly tender and fluffy while also allowing the exterior to develop those beautiful crispy grill marks. It’s the secret to getting that perfect contrast in textures, making these potatoes utterly irresistible.
Ingredient List
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons olive oil – This helps with grilling and adds flavour.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked. They should be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
- Drain the potatoes well and let them steam dry for a few minutes in the colander or pot. This step is essential for achieving a crispy exterior.
- In a large bowl, toss the parboiled potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the seasoned potatoes on the preheated grill. If using gas grill, place them in a grilling basket or on a sheet of foil for easy cleanup. For charcoal, spread directly on the grate.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning them every 5-7 minutes, until they are golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Optional Toppings/Variations
Want to take your grilled potatoes to the next level? Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley and chives. Drizzle over the potatoes after grilling.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the warm potatoes right after they come off the grill for a savory, cheesy touch.
- Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon bits as a delicious garnish, providing a salty and smoky flavor boost.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcook the potatoes when parboiling, they should be slightly firm to keep their shape during grilling.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to get the best sear and beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; cook the potatoes in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Tossing the potatoes in olive oil and spices while they’re still warm after parboiling helps the seasoning adhere better.
- Use tongs for flipping the potatoes to avoid breaking them and maintain nice shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely! Russet potatoes work well if you like a very fluffy interior. Red potatoes can also be used, but they tend to be a bit more waxy and hold their shape better.
- Can I make these ahead of time? You can parboil and season the potatoes in advance, but it’s best to grill them right before serving for the best texture. Parboil and season the potatoes up to 4 hours ahead of time, then grill.
- Can I bake these instead of grilling? While grilling provides the best flavor, you can bake the seasoned potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Can I freeze these? It’s not recommended to freeze these potatoes. The texture may become mushy after thawing.
Variations and Customization Options
Here are some other ways to customize your grilled potatoes:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Bliss: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Mediterranean Style: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
- Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, chives, shredded cheese and bacon bits for a loaded version.
Serving Suggestions
These grilled potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, like steak, chicken, or burgers. They also pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, salads, and vegetarian entrees. You can even serve them as a standalone snack with a side of your favorite dipping sauce!
Conclusion
This grilled potato recipe is a surefire way to take your cooking game to the next level. With crispy exteriors and fluffy insides packed with smoky flavor, you’ll be the star of every barbecue. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to make something so delicious! Don’t forget to share photos of your creations and subscribe to our newsletter for more amazing recipes.
