BBQ Baked Potato: Perfect Grilled Method in 60 Minutes

Wrap medium-sized russet potatoes in foil after poking holes and seasoning, then cook directly on a preheated BBQ grill at 375-400°F for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.

There's nothing quite like a perfectly cooked baked potato straight from the BBQ. Unlike oven-baked versions, the gentle radiant heat of a charcoal or gas grill creates a unique texture - crispy skin with a fluffy interior that absorbs flavors beautifully. After testing dozens of methods across different grill types, I've perfected a foolproof technique that works whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner.

Why BBQ Beats the Oven for Baked Potatoes

Grilling baked potatoes isn't just about convenience during summer months - it creates superior results. The indirect heat of a BBQ allows for more even cooking while the subtle smokiness enhances the potato's natural flavor. Professional chefs prefer this method because the radiant heat cooks the potato from all sides simultaneously, preventing the common oven issue of one side becoming overcooked while the other remains firm.

Potato Selection and Preparation

Start with the right foundation. Russet potatoes work best for baking due to their high starch content and thick skin that holds up well to grilling. Aim for medium-sized potatoes (about 8-10 ounces each) for even cooking - larger potatoes often cook unevenly on the grill.

Before hitting the grill, properly prepare your potatoes:

• Scrub thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt
• Poke 6-8 holes with a fork to allow steam to escape
• Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt
• Optional: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor

According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, properly piercing potatoes prevents potential bursting during cooking due to built-up steam pressure (fsis.usda.gov).

BBQ Setup for Perfect Results

The key to successful BBQ baked potatoes lies in proper grill setup. Whether using charcoal or gas, aim for consistent indirect heat:

Grill Type	Ideal Temperature	Cooking Method	Approximate Time
Gas Grill	375-400°F	Turn off center burners, place potatoes on cooler side	45-60 minutes
Charcoal Grill	350-375°F	Pile coals on one side, place potatoes on opposite side	50-70 minutes
Smoker	275-300°F	Place directly on grates	60-90 minutes

This cooking time comparison shows why understanding your specific grill type matters. The University of Illinois Extension notes that cooking temperatures significantly impact starch conversion in potatoes, with the ideal range being 350-400°F for optimal texture (extension.illinois.edu).

The Foil Dilemma: To Wrap or Not to Wrap?

Here's where most home cooks get confused. While traditional oven baking often uses foil, the BBQ method offers two distinct approaches:

• Foil Method: Creates a steaming effect that speeds cooking and produces softer skin. Best for beginners or when cooking multiple potatoes of different sizes.
• No-Foil Method: Results in crispier skin with more pronounced smoky flavor. Requires careful temperature monitoring but delivers superior texture.

For foolproof results, especially with gas grills that can have hot spots, the foil method works best for most home cooks. Simply wrap each potato tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil after seasoning.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Follow these steps for consistently perfect BBQ baked potatoes:

1. Preheat your BBQ to 375-400°F using indirect heat configuration
2. Place wrapped potatoes directly on the cooler side of the grill
3. Cook with the lid closed for 45-60 minutes (time varies by size)
4. Check for doneness by carefully piercing with a fork - it should slide in easily
5. Remove potatoes and let rest for 5 minutes before opening

During testing, I discovered that opening the foil too soon after cooking causes the potato to lose steam and become gummy. The 5-minute rest period allows the starches to set properly.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Even experienced grillers make these mistakes:

• Skipping the preheat: Always preheat your grill for at least 15 minutes before adding potatoes
• Overcrowding: Leave at least 1 inch between potatoes for proper heat circulation
• Peeking too often: Each time you lift the lid, you lose significant heat
• Under-seasoning: Potatoes need more salt than you think - aim for 1 tsp per medium potato

Serving Your Perfect BBQ Baked Potato

When ready to serve, carefully open the foil packets to release steam away from your face. For the classic presentation, make a cross-shaped cut on top and gently squeeze the base to open the potato.

Top with traditional favorites like:

• Real butter (not margarine) that melts into the fluffy interior
• Sharp cheddar cheese that melts perfectly
• Crispy bacon bits for texture contrast
• Sour cream at room temperature for even distribution

For something special, try my chef-inspired combinations:

• Southwest Style: Chipotle aioli, black beans, corn, and cilantro
• Gourmet Truffle: Truffle butter, parmesan, and chives
• Loaded BBQ: Pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and pickled onions

Troubleshooting Guide

Even with careful preparation, issues can arise. Here's how to handle them:

• Undercooked potato: Return to grill for additional 10-15 minutes, checking every 5 minutes
• Burnt spots: Usually caused by hot spots on grill - rotate potatoes periodically
• Soggy texture: Result of wrapping in regular foil instead of heavy-duty, or opening too soon
• Dry interior: Overcooking is the culprit - reduce time by 5-10 minutes next time

Remember that potato density varies by variety and growing conditions, so cooking times aren't absolute. Always rely on the fork test rather than strict timing.

When BBQ Method Isn't Ideal

While BBQ baked potatoes deliver exceptional results in warm weather, there are specific scenarios where alternative methods might be better:

• During heavy rain or extreme cold weather
• When cooking very large quantities (more than 6 potatoes)
• If you need precise timing for a multi-course meal
• When using a small portable grill with inconsistent heat

In these situations, the oven method provides more reliable results, though without the distinctive smoky flavor that makes BBQ potatoes special.

Can I cook baked potatoes on a BBQ without foil?

Yes, you can cook baked potatoes directly on the grill grates without foil for crispier skin. Simply oil the grates well, place potatoes directly on the cooler side of the grill, and turn every 15-20 minutes for even cooking. This method takes about 10-15 minutes longer than the foil method.

How do I know when my BBQ baked potato is done?

The best way to check doneness is by piercing the potato with a fork or skewer. It should slide in with little resistance. You can also gently squeeze the packet - a properly cooked potato will feel soft throughout. For precise measurement, the internal temperature should reach 205-210°F.

What's the best type of potato for BBQ baking?

Russet potatoes are ideal for BBQ baking due to their high starch content and thick skin that holds up well to grilling. Yukon Gold potatoes work as a second choice, offering a buttery flavor but with thinner skin that may break more easily. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which don't achieve the same fluffy texture.

Can I add fillings before cooking on the BBQ?

Yes, you can create stuffed baked potatoes before grilling. Make a horizontal slit in the potato, gently squeeze to open the cavity, add your fillings (cheese, bacon, etc.), then wrap tightly in foil. This method works well but may increase cooking time by 5-10 minutes depending on filling density.