For softer potatoes and convenient cooking, wrap them in foil
Potatoes wrapped in foil have a distinctly different texture compared to those cooked without it. When grilled in foil, the potatoes retain their moisture, effectively steaming them and resulting in a softer texture for both the flesh and the skin. If you appreciate that tender, steamy quality—where a fork glides in effortlessly—you may prefer the foil method. Additionally, if you want to avoid making your grill messier than necessary, foil-wrapped potatoes are a great choice, as they are less likely to stick to the grill grates. However, a good beginner grilling tip is to oil both your grill and the potatoes if you choose to place them directly on the grates without foil to prevent sticking. You can also easily incorporate herbs and seasonings into the foil packet to enhance the flavor of your potatoes.
That said, don’t expect a crispy skin when grilling potatoes in foil. You also won’t achieve those perfect grill marks or that signature smoky flavor, although you can poke holes in the foil to let some smoke in if you prefer. Lastly, be cautious about overcooking when using the foil method—potatoes can quickly transition from "pleasantly soft" to "mushy and soggy." Use a fork to check for doneness and ensure they don’t become too mushy.
To grill potatoes in foil, start by rubbing a sheet of foil with butter, then add your seasonings and wrap up the potato. If desired, poke holes in the foil and cook for 45 minutes to an hour.
For crispier potatoes with a smoky flavor, leave off the foil
Grilling potatoes directly on the grate offers a whole new set of advantages and disadvantages compared to wrapping them in foil. The most noticeable difference is in flavor and texture. If you enjoy potatoes with a crispy, caramelized skin and a richer smoky taste, this method is ideal for you. Plus, you'll achieve those appealing grill marks on your potatoes.
Placing your potatoes directly on the grill means you'll need to keep a closer eye on them to avoid burning or uneven cooking. Additionally, if your grill grates aren't well-seasoned, you might face some sticking issues. Time is another factor to consider. For sliced potatoes, grilling takes about 10-15 minutes total, with a flip halfway through. However, whole potatoes require a longer cooking time, typically between 1 hour to 75 minutes, which is a bit more than the time needed for whole potatoes wrapped in foil.
To reduce grilling time and ensure even cooking, a useful tip is to parboil your potatoes in salted water with a splash of vinegar for 10 minutes before grilling. This not only helps to cut down on cooking time but also allows the potatoes to absorb extra flavor from the salt. After parboiling, potato wedges will only need about 5 minutes on the grill, with a flip in the middle; whole potatoes will take a bit longer and are ready when they are fork-tender and nicely charred.
Recommended
The Spray Bottle Hack To Grill Extra Flavorful Steaks
Are Corn Husks Flammable? What You Need To Know Before Grilling Corn
Soak Cedar Planks With Bourbon For Unforgettable Grilled Salmon
Andrew Zimmern's Favorite Fish For Flavorful Grilling
Next up
