When it comes to BBQs, potatoes are often overlooked in favor of more traditional grilled foods like burgers and hot dogs. However, potatoes can be a delicious and versatile addition to any BBQ spread. One of the most common questions people have when it comes to cooking potatoes on the BBQ is how long to cook them. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook potatoes on the BBQ and provide some general guidelines for cooking times.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Before we dive into cooking times, it’s essential to choose the right type of potatoes for your BBQ. There are several varieties of potatoes, each with its own unique characteristics and cooking times. Here are a few popular varieties of potatoes that are well-suited for BBQs:
- Russet potatoes: These are the most commonly available type of potato and are great for baking, grilling, or roasting.
- Yukon gold potatoes: These potatoes have a buttery, yellow flesh and a smooth, thin skin. They’re perfect for grilling or roasting.
- Red potatoes: These potatoes have a waxy texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. They’re great for grilling or boiling.
Preparing Potatoes for the BBQ
Before cooking potatoes on the BBQ, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Poke some holes in the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
Cooking Potatoes on the BBQ
There are several ways to cook potatoes on the BBQ, including grilling, roasting, and boiling. Here are some general guidelines for cooking times:
Grilling Potatoes
Grilling potatoes is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your BBQ. Here are some general guidelines for grilling potatoes:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly charred.
Grilling Potato Slices
If you want to grill potato slices, you can follow these steps:
- Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Brush the slices with oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
- Place the slices on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and lightly charred.
Roasting Potatoes
Roasting potatoes is a great way to cook them evenly and add a rich, caramelized flavor. Here are some general guidelines for roasting potatoes:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F).
- Place the potatoes in a foil packet or a grill-safe roasting pan.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
Roasting Potato Wedges
If you want to roast potato wedges, you can follow these steps:
- Cut the potatoes into wedges.
- Toss the wedges with oil, salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
- Place the wedges in a foil packet or a grill-safe roasting pan and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
Boiling Potatoes
Boiling potatoes is a great way to cook them quickly and evenly. Here are some general guidelines for boiling potatoes:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Boiling Potato Slices
If you want to boil potato slices, you can follow these steps:
- Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the slices in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the slices are tender when pierced with a fork.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking potatoes on the BBQ:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the potatoes are cooked to a safe internal temperature (around 190°F).
- Add some garlic, herbs, or spices to the potatoes for extra flavor.
- Try using different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, for a unique flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different cooking times and temperatures to find your perfect potato.
Potato Recipes for the BBQ
Here are a few delicious potato recipes you can try on the BBQ:
- Grilled potato salad: Slice the potatoes and grill them until tender. Then, toss with mayonnaise, mustard, and diced herbs.
- Roasted potato wedges: Cut the potatoes into wedges and roast them in the oven until crispy. Then, toss with oil, salt, and pepper.
- BBQ potato skins: Bake the potatoes in the oven until tender. Then, scoop out the flesh and fill the skins with cheese, sour cream, and diced herbs.
Potato and Herb Butter
Here’s a simple recipe for potato and herb butter that’s perfect for the BBQ:
- Mix together softened butter, chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Spread the butter on the potatoes before grilling or roasting for a delicious and flavorful side dish.
| Potato Variety | Cooking Method | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | Grilling | 5-7 minutes per side |
| Yukon gold potatoes | Roasting | 30-40 minutes |
| Red potatoes | Boiling | 10-15 minutes |
In conclusion, cooking potatoes on the BBQ is a great way to add some variety to your outdoor cooking. By following these general guidelines and tips, you can create delicious and flavorful potato dishes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or boiling, potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked to perfection on the BBQ.
What are the benefits of cooking potatoes on the BBQ?
Cooking potatoes on the BBQ offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows for a unique smoky flavor to be infused into the potatoes, which can elevate their taste and texture. Additionally, BBQ cooking can help to bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making them a delicious side dish or main course.
Another benefit of cooking potatoes on the BBQ is that it can be a healthier option compared to traditional cooking methods. Since the potatoes are cooked over an open flame, they don’t require any added oils or fats, making them a lower-calorie option. Furthermore, the high heat of the BBQ can help to retain the nutrients and vitamins found in the potatoes, making them a nutritious and flavorful choice.
What types of potatoes are best suited for BBQ cooking?
When it comes to cooking potatoes on the BBQ, not all types are created equal. The best types of potatoes for BBQ cooking are those that are high in starch, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. These types of potatoes have a dry, fluffy interior that holds up well to the high heat of the BBQ, and they yield a crispy exterior that adds texture and flavor.
Other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, can also be used for BBQ cooking, but they may not yield the same results as Russet or Idaho potatoes. These types of potatoes have a waxy texture that can make them more prone to burning or becoming mushy when cooked over high heat. However, with the right cooking techniques and attention, they can still be cooked to perfection on the BBQ.
How do I prepare potatoes for BBQ cooking?
Preparing potatoes for BBQ cooking is a straightforward process that requires some basic steps. Firstly, the potatoes should be washed and scrubbed to remove any dirt or debris. Next, they should be dried thoroughly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps to prevent the potatoes from steaming instead of browning when cooked.
Once the potatoes are dry, they can be cut into the desired shape or size. For BBQ cooking, it’s best to cut the potatoes into wedges, slices, or small chunks, as these shapes allow for even cooking and browning. The potatoes can also be marinated or seasoned with herbs and spices before cooking to add extra flavor.
What is the best way to cook potatoes on the BBQ?
The best way to cook potatoes on the BBQ is to use a combination of direct and indirect heat. To start, the potatoes should be placed directly over the heat source to sear and brown the exterior. This helps to create a crispy texture and adds flavor to the potatoes. Once the potatoes are browned, they can be moved to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
It’s also important to cook the potatoes at the right temperature. A medium-high heat is best for BBQ cooking, as it allows for a nice balance between browning and cooking. The potatoes should be cooked until they are tender and cooked through, which can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the size and type of potato.
Can I wrap potatoes in foil for BBQ cooking?
Wrapping potatoes in foil is a popular method for BBQ cooking, as it helps to retain moisture and heat. However, it’s not always the best option. When potatoes are wrapped in foil, they can steam instead of brown, which can result in a less flavorful and less textured dish.
That being said, wrapping potatoes in foil can be a good option if you’re looking for a more tender and moist potato. To get the best results, it’s best to poke some holes in the foil to allow for airflow and to cook the potatoes over indirect heat. This helps to prevent the potatoes from steaming and promotes even cooking.
How do I prevent potatoes from burning on the BBQ?
Preventing potatoes from burning on the BBQ requires some attention and care. Firstly, it’s essential to keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook, as they can go from perfectly cooked to burnt in a matter of minutes. It’s also important to adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Another way to prevent burning is to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the grill. This helps to ensure that the heat is at a safe level and that the potatoes are cooking evenly. Additionally, it’s a good idea to rotate the potatoes regularly to promote even cooking and to prevent hot spots.
Can I cook potatoes on a gas BBQ?
Yes, you can cook potatoes on a gas BBQ. In fact, gas BBQs can be a great option for cooking potatoes, as they provide a consistent and controlled heat source. To get the best results, it’s essential to preheat the grill to the right temperature and to use a thermometer to monitor the heat.
When cooking potatoes on a gas BBQ, it’s also important to use the right cooking techniques. This includes cooking the potatoes over direct heat to sear and brown the exterior, and then moving them to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. With the right techniques and attention, you can achieve perfectly cooked potatoes on a gas BBQ.