Four Easy Methods for Grilling Potatoes

Potatoes are the perfect vegetable for the grill. They can be grilled while you are cooking other items, and because they are so forgiving, you don't even have to keep that close of an eye on them. Here are several methods for grilling potatoes.

Baking Whole Potatoes

Baking potatoes on the grill is very easy and requires virtually no intervention. Wrap whole potatoes in aluminum foil to protect them from the intense heat of the grill and to help them cook evenly. Add seasonings to the packets to get the most flavor out of grill-baked potatoes.

1. Start by separating a piece of foil large enough for your potato.
2. Pour about 1 tablespoon of oil in the center.
3. Season with salt, pepper, herbs, or whatever you like.
4. Place the potato, skin on, in the middle of the foil, and wrap it up. The oil will move around the potato while it cooks, which keeps it moist, and the seasonings will add flavor.
5. Place them anywhere on the grill that isn't in the way. If you need your grill really hot, it is best to place them away from the high heat, such as on an upper rack or off to the side.
6. Baked potatoes are done when a fork pierces the center easily. They will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook.

Sliced Potato Packets

Potato slices in packets will cook much faster than whole potatoes. This method is a good choice when you are grilling meats that will be done quicker. A grilled potato slice should be about 1/4-inch thick (little over 1/2 centimeter). It is best to keep the packets relatively small, so if you need a lot of servings, you might want to wrap up the potato pieces in several packets rather than 1 large packet.

1. Take sliced potatoes and place them on a sheet of foil large enough to wrap them up.
2. Top with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, herbs, seasonings, bacon pieces, chopped onions, bell peppers, or virtually anything that isn't going to burn up (such as cheese).
3. Wrap tightly, and place them on a medium-hot grill.
4. These packets will cook up in about 20 to 30 minutes. Check to make sure they are done before you pull them off the grill. Be careful opening the packets because the steam inside can be around 500 F (260 C).

Grilling Potato Wedges Directly on the Grill

You can grill potato slices or wedges quickly and easily directly on the grill if you are willing to keep a close eye on them. Your best bet is to cut the potatoes into long thin wedges. This will let them cook faster. You can peel them or leave the skins on.

1. Cut the potato in half lengthwise and then cut each half into 4 to 8 long, thin wedges (depending on the size of your potato).
2. Toss them with an oil and seasoning mixture. Italian dressing works great for this.
3. Place them straight on the grill (perpendicular to the grates) or in a grill basket. Grill over medium heat and cook until they get soft, about 20 minutes. You can baste them while they cook. You will need to flip your potato wedges periodically to prevent burning.

Parboiled First

The fastest way to grill your potatoes is to parboil them first.

1. Slice the potatoes.
2. Place them in boiling water for about 10 minutes.
3. Drain.
4. Coat the potatoes with your preferred seasonings.
5. Place them on a medium-hot grill, either directly or in packets. They will be cooked in another 5 to 10 minutes.