If you are hunting for a simple yet irresistible way to elevate your barbecue or summer cookout, this Grilled Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender baby potatoes kissed by the open flame, infused with smoky paprika and fragrant rosemary, delivering a delicious combination of crispy edges and soft centers. This recipe turns humble potatoes into a show-stopping side dish that everyone will rave about, offering warmth, comfort, and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Grilled Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious balance each ingredient brings. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, you’ll achieve a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and vibrant color that complements almost any main course.
- Baby potatoes (1 ½ pounds): Choose uniform-sized halves to ensure even grilling and a tender interior.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes’ exterior on the grill.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle garlicky depth without overpowering the natural potato taste.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives the dish a distinctive smoky flavor and beautiful reddish hue.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Introduces a gentle kick and complexity to the seasoning.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Infuses the potatoes with an aromatic pine-like freshness that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a bright, leafy contrast and pops of color when sprinkled before serving.
How to Make Grilled Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Potatoes
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C) which is perfect for achieving that coveted exterior char without overcooking the inside. While the grill heats, halve your baby potatoes to promote even cooking and faster grilling. This step sets the foundation for beautifully cooked potatoes.
Step 2: Toss with Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and freshly chopped rosemary. Make sure every piece is generously coated—this not only enhances the flavor but also helps create that luscious, crisp crust during grilling. This step is where all the magic flavor combinations come together.
Step 3: Grill the Potatoes
Thread the seasoned potatoes onto skewers or place them in a grill basket to prevent any from falling through the grates. Grill the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally. The goal is to achieve tender potatoes with beautiful grill marks and a slight char that elevates their flavor. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, but don’t be afraid of a little char—it adds wonderful smoky notes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove the potatoes from the heat and transfer them to a serving dish. If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. This final touch not only brightens the presentation but adds a lovely herbal contrast to the robust flavors of the potatoes.
How to Serve Grilled Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Most people love to finish their grilled potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or extra rosemary. For a richer touch, a dollop of sour cream or garlic aioli can be an absolute game-changer. These additions bring creaminess and an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the smoky potatoes.
Side Dishes
Grilled potatoes shine as a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or fish, but they also fit seamlessly into vegan and veggie-centric meals. Serve alongside a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to balance out the smoky richness with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your grilled potatoes on wooden skewers alongside colorful grilled bell peppers and onions for a vibrant and easy-to-eat presentation. Or arrange them in a rustic bowl with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil to create a visually stunning centerpiece. The possibilities are endless when you get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this Grilled Potatoes Recipe again as a quick lunch or side for dinner.
Freezing
While freezing grilled potatoes is possible, it may affect the texture slightly. If you want to freeze them, cool completely and place in freezer-safe bags or containers; use within 1 month for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, the best method is to use a grill or oven to revive their crispiness. Simply warm them at around 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make potatoes soggy instead of maintaining their delightful grilled bite.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut regular potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook through evenly. Keep in mind that larger pieces might take a bit longer on the grill, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Should I parboil the potatoes before grilling?
Parboiling the potatoes for 5 to 7 minutes before grilling can speed up the cooking process and help achieve a consistently tender interior. However, if you prefer a more rustic texture with a charred exterior, grilling directly without parboiling works beautifully too.
How do I prevent potatoes from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the potatoes on them. Tossing potatoes in olive oil also helps prevent sticking, and using a grill basket or skewers can make flipping and turning easier without losing pieces.
Can I add other vegetables to this Grilled Potatoes Recipe?
Yes! Sliced onions, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes work wonderfully alongside potatoes on skewers or in a grill basket. They add extra flavor, color, and variety to your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Definitely. This Grilled Potatoes Recipe uses simple plant-based ingredients and no gluten-containing products, making it an excellent choice for vegan and gluten-free meals.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Potatoes Recipe has quickly become a beloved staple in my cooking repertoire, and I’m confident it will become one of yours too. Simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, it’s a winner on every grill and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Don’t wait to try this delightfully easy recipe that turns everyday potatoes into a smoky, aromatic sensation everyone will love.
