Unlock the secret to an unforgettable summer feast with the ultimate recipe for **Crispy Grilled Potatoes**! Imagine golden-brown perfection, boasting a satisfyingly crunchy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth tender interior, all infused with a vibrant symphony of savory flavors. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that promises to be the undisputed star of every backyard barbecue, serene camping cookout, or cozy fireside gathering.
These expertly grilled potatoes are incredibly flavorful on their own, but for those who love a little extra something, they pair beautifully with a variety of dips. Consider a zesty Spicy Ranch Dip, a classic Honey Mustard, or a simple, homemade Fry Sauce. The possibilities for enhancing their deliciousness are endless!
The Ultimate Grilled Potatoes Recipe for Summer
There’s an undeniable magic in the air when summer arrives. The longer days, the warm breezes, and the irresistible call of the outdoors make us want to embrace every moment under the sun. And what better way to celebrate the season than with the sizzle and aroma of a good old-fashioned grill? Whether you’re embarking on an exciting summer adventure in your state-of-the-art camper, seeking solace in a quaint cabin nestled deep within the woods, or simply igniting the coals in your very own backyard haven, certain recipes capture the essence of summer like no other. And leading that charge are these incredibly easy and undeniably delicious grilled potatoes.
The allure of outdoor cooking, followed by a leisurely outdoor meal, is simply unmatched. The tantalizing scent of a perfectly seared burger or the mouth-watering sound of a steak sizzling on the grates awakens the senses and promises a truly satisfying experience. These easy grilled potatoes are not just an addition; they are a cherished component of any summer spread. Their unique texture combination of a satisfyingly crispy exterior and a wonderfully fluffy, tender interior creates a harmonious culinary delight in every single bite. Bursting with savory goodness and an oh-so-delicious taste, these are the grilled potatoes that family and friends will rave about and request all summer long. Get ready to elevate your outdoor dining experience with this simple yet spectacular recipe!
Perfect Pairings: More Grilling Favorites
Get your grill fired up and ready for an epic feast! These crispy grilled potatoes are the perfect versatile side dish that complements almost any grilled main course. To make your outdoor culinary experience even more memorable, explore these fantastic recipes that pair beautifully with our easy grilled red potatoes:
- Juicy Steak Kabobs: Tender marinated steak and vibrant vegetables, grilled to perfection.
- Grilled Corn with Herb Butter: Sweet corn on the cob, charred and slathered with aromatic herb butter.
- The Best Chicken Marinade: Ensure your chicken is succulent and full of flavor every time.
- Flavorful Turkey Burgers: A healthier burger option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Steak Marinade and Steak Seasoning: Everything you need for an incredibly tender and tasty steak.
- Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill: A light and healthy option that pairs well with the richness of potatoes.
- Portobello Mushroom Burgers: A hearty vegetarian option, marinated and grilled.
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Grilled Potatoes
These humble grilled potatoes may seem simple, but they are absolutely bursting with incredible flavor! Each golden-brown bite delivers a rich, buttery taste harmoniously blended with aromatic Italian seasonings and a surprising, bright splash of citrus. This unique combination transforms a classic side dish into the undeniable star of any gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the readily available ingredients.
You’ll find the full printable recipe card with precise measurements at the conclusion of this article. For now, let’s take a closer look at the key components that bring this sensational dish to life:
- Red Potatoes: About four medium-sized red potatoes are perfect for this recipe. I specifically love using red potatoes because their waxy texture helps them hold their shape beautifully after slicing and grilling, ensuring that appealing crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture. However, feel free to use any potato variety you prefer. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. If opting for starchy russet potatoes, ensure you give them a thorough scrub and perhaps a quick peel if you prefer, as their skins can be thicker.
- Salted Butter: Melted butter is crucial for achieving that rich, golden crust and deep flavor. If you only have unsalted butter on hand, simply increase the amount of salt slightly to compensate. For those seeking dairy-free alternatives or a different flavor profile, vegetable oil, canola oil, or even a good quality olive oil or grapeseed oil can be used, though they will impart a different taste and texture.
- Lemon Juice: The juice from about one small fresh lemon is all you need. This fresh citrus burst is truly a game-changer for the flavor of this side dish, adding a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich potatoes and savory herbs. It helps to cut through the richness and elevate all the other flavors. Freshly squeezed juice is always recommended for the best results, but juice from concentrate works in a pinch. Lime juice also makes a fantastic substitution for a slightly different, tangy twist.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste. You can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the finished potatoes just after grilling for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
- Italian Seasoning: This herb blend is my absolute favorite for these potatoes. Its herbaceous and aromatic notes, typically including basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, complement the earthy potatoes perfectly. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with your preferred seasoning combinations! A blend of dried rosemary and thyme, or even a smoky paprika and garlic powder mix, would also be delicious.
- Paprika: Whether you choose original (sweet) or smoked paprika, this spice adds a wonderful savory depth and a beautiful reddish hue to the potatoes. Smoked paprika, in particular, will infuse a subtle campfire-like flavor, enhancing the grilled experience.
- Minced Parsley and Fresh Lemon: These are entirely optional garnishes, but I highly recommend them! A sprinkle of fresh minced parsley adds a pop of vibrant color and a fresh, clean herbaceous note, while an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the entire dish, creating an incredible flavor burst. Consider adding a few lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their potatoes as well.
Mastering the Art of Grilling Potatoes
Prepare yourself for golden-brown perfection, delivered in every warm, poppable bite. Once you try these easy crispy potatoes straight off the grill, you won’t be able to get enough! They are truly the perfect side dish for your next BBQ. Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this culinary delight:
- Prepare Your Grill and Water: Begin by preheating your outdoor grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C). This consistent heat is key for achieving those beautiful grill marks and thorough cooking. Simultaneously, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil on your stovetop. Salting the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out.
- Precision Potato Slicing: While your grill heats and water boils, meticulously slice your potatoes into uniform ¼ inch thick rounds. The consistency of your slices is paramount here, as it ensures that every potato piece cooks evenly and achieves the same perfect texture. If you have a mandoline slicer, now is the ideal time to use it for flawless, uniform slices. Otherwise, a sharp chef’s knife and a steady hand will do the trick.
- Par-Boil for Perfection: Carefully add the sliced potatoes to the boiling salted water. Cook them for approximately 5 to 6 minutes, or just until they are almost al dente. This means they should be slightly softened but still firm to the bite, not fully cooked through. The goal of this par-boiling step is to kickstart the cooking process, ensuring the potatoes become tender on the inside while still allowing them to finish cooking and develop a fantastic crispy exterior on the grill. Be cautious not to overcook them at this stage, as mushy potatoes will fall apart when handled on the grill.
- Thoroughly Pat Dry: Once par-boiled, carefully remove the potato slices from the hot water and spread them out on a clean surface lined with paper towels. Use additional paper towels to gently pat them thoroughly dry. This step is crucial! Removing excess moisture is the secret to achieving that coveted crispy texture on the grill; wet potatoes will steam rather than crisp.
- Craft Your Flavorful Coating: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter, fresh lemon juice, salt, fragrant Italian seasoning, and savory paprika. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, creating a vibrant and aromatic coating for your potatoes.
- Gently Coat the Potatoes: Add the dried potato slices to the bowl with the butter and seasoning mixture. Using your hands or a spatula, gently toss the potatoes until each slice is completely and evenly coated. Handle them with care to prevent any breakage.
- Grill to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the seasoned potato slices directly onto the preheated grill grates. Cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for beautiful golden-brown grill marks and a fork-tender interior. Use grill tongs for safe and easy flipping, ensuring even cooking and charring on both sides.
- Serve Hot and Garnish: As soon as they are cooked, transfer the crispy grilled potatoes straight off the grill to a serving platter. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle with freshly minced parsley and an additional splash of fresh lemon juice. These potatoes are truly best enjoyed immediately, while they are still warm and at their peak crispiness.
Grilled Red Potatoes FAQs
These crispy grilled red potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze a batch for up to three months. When reheating, it’s crucial to avoid the microwave, as it will inevitably make the potatoes soggy and lose their delightful crisp-yet-tender texture. Instead, reheat them in a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C), an air fryer, or back on your grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and re-crisped. This method will help them retain much of their original texture.
No grill? No problem! You can absolutely still enjoy these delicious potatoes. A fantastic alternative is to oven bake them. Simply arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, or until they are beautifully golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. For those who still crave the signature grill marks and smoky flavor indoors, a cast iron grill pan is an excellent investment, especially during the rainy season or colder months. You’ll achieve those coveted char marks and a grilled flavor right on your stovetop!
While red potatoes are fantastic for grilling due to their waxy texture and ability to hold their shape, other varieties like Yukon Gold or new potatoes also work wonderfully. Their creamy texture and thin skins are ideal for grilling. Starchy potatoes like Russets can be used but tend to be a bit softer and may benefit from being sliced slightly thicker or par-boiled for a shorter time.
To prevent sticking, ensure your grill grates are thoroughly clean before preheating. Once preheated, lightly oil the grates with a high smoke point oil (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil) using a folded paper towel held by tongs. Also, make sure your potato slices are adequately coated with the butter or oil mixture before placing them on the grill. Don’t try to flip them too soon; let them develop a nice crust, and they will release more easily.
Yes, absolutely! Grilling potatoes in a foil packet is a fantastic method, especially for softer, more steamed results or when camping. To do this, toss the potato slices with the butter and seasonings as directed, then arrange them in a single layer on a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Fold the foil to create a sealed packet. Grill over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, flipping once, until tender. While they won’t get the same crisp exterior or grill marks, they will be incredibly flavorful and moist.
Flavorful Variations To Try
The truly wonderful aspect of these crispy grilled potatoes is their incredible versatility. They serve as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings, herbs, and toppings to suit any palate or occasion. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous!
- Add Aromatics and Veggies: Elevate the flavor profile by roasting the potatoes with finely minced garlic, sliced onions, or other thinly sliced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. These additions will soften and caramelize on the grill, adding layers of sweetness and savory depth.
- Spice It Up with Cheese and Cream: For a heartier, more indulgent side, add a dash of chili powder, a kick of Cajun seasoning, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Once grilled, top the warm potatoes with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and perhaps some crispy bacon bits for a loaded potato experience.
- Dress Them Up with Fresh Herbs and Dressings: Transform your grilled potatoes into a gourmet side dish by drizzling them with your favorite dressing. A creamy ranch or a bold Blue Cheese Dressing works wonderfully. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped chives, dill, or rosemary for an aromatic and visually appealing garnish.
- Mediterranean Twist: Toss the potatoes with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon. After grilling, top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and fresh cherry tomatoes for a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish.
- Sweet & Spicy: For a unique flavor, add a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup to the butter mixture along with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. The sweet and spicy contrast is incredibly addictive.
More Delicious Potato Recipes To Enjoy
If you’re a true potato lover, then you know the possibilities are endless. Beyond the grill, there are countless ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Here are some more of our favorite potato recipes that are guaranteed to delight:
- Creamy Cheesy Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food, often called “Funeral Potatoes,” perfect for potlucks.
- Crispy Oven Roasted Potatoes: A simple yet incredibly flavorful classic, perfectly seasoned and roasted.
- Homemade Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: The quintessential side dish, rich and creamy.
- Loaded Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce.
- Indulgent Twice Baked Potatoes: Baked potato shells filled with a cheesy, creamy potato mixture.
- Perfect Baked Sweet Potato: A healthier and naturally sweet alternative, simple to prepare.
How To Grill Potatoes: The Recipe Card
Print
Pin
Grilled Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 red potatoes medium sized, or any potatoes of your choosing
- 6 tablespoons salted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
- ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- minced parsley and fresh lemon optional garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (350-400 degrees Fahrenheit) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove.
-
While heating the water, cut the potatoes into ¼ inch slices. Use a mandoline if you have one for even slices.
-
Add the potato slices to the boiling water and cook for 5-6 minutes or until they are almost al dente. They should not be fully cooked, as they will finish cooking on the grill; overcooked potatoes will fall apart.
-
Remove the potato slices from the boiling water and pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel. Set aside while you prepare the seasoning mixture.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter, lemon juice, salt, Italian seasoning, and paprika until well combined.
-
Add the dried potato slices to the bowl and gently toss until all the potatoes are fully and evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
-
Place the coated potato slices directly onto the preheated grill grates. Cook for 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop beautiful golden-brown grill marks and are fork-tender. Use tongs to safely and easily flip the potatoes.
-
Serve immediately, garnished with minced parsley and an optional extra splash of fresh lemon. These potatoes are best enjoyed straight off the grill for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Notes
- For an easy spicy dip, I simply combine mayonnaise with a dash of sriracha. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dipping sauces!
- If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can bake your potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fork-tender. Alternatively, a grill pan can be used on your stovetop to achieve similar char marks and flavor indoors.
Tools Needed
grill pan | mandoline | grill tongs
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 35g |
Protein: 4g |
Fat: 17g |
Saturated Fat: 11g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 45mg |
Sodium: 915mg |
Potassium: 989mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 3g |
Vitamin A: 669IU |
Vitamin C: 20mg |
Calcium: 34mg |
Iron: 2mg