How Long Does it Take to Cook a Baked Potato on a Charcoal Grill?

By Avi Green November 01, 2023

For barbecue enthusiasts, mastering the art of cooking various dishes on a charcoal grill can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. One dish that might seem straightforward but has its set of intricacies is the humble baked potato. Many people wonder, how long does it take to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve deep into this topic, exploring every possible angle to ensure you get perfectly cooked baked potatoes every single time.

how long does it take to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill

Why Choose a Charcoal Grill for Cooking Baked Potatoes?

Charcoal grilling is often favored by purists for the unique smoky flavor it imparts to food. When it comes to baked potatoes, using a charcoal grill can elevate a simple dish to a flavor-packed delight. The slow and steady heat, combined with the grill's unique smoky profile, helps in achieving a texture that's crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Preparing Your Charcoal Grill

Selecting the Right Charcoal

The type of charcoal you use can significantly impact the cooking process and the end result of your baked potatoes. Both briquettes and lump charcoal have their pros and cons. Lump charcoal burns hotter and faster, whereas briquettes burn longer and provide a more consistent temperature. For a longer cook like baked potatoes, you might want to opt for briquettes.

Setting Up for Indirect Heat

One key aspect to nail the cooking time and result is setting up your grill for indirect heat. This ensures that your potatoes cook evenly without burning. Arrange the charcoal on one side of the grill, creating a two-zone setup. Place a drip pan with water under the cooler side to maintain moisture and stabilize the temperature.

Steps to Prepare Baked Potatoes

Choose the Right Potato

Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior. Look for medium-sized potatoes to ensure they cook evenly.

Prepping the Potatoes

Clean: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water.
Season: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Prick: Use a fork to prick the potatoes multiple times. This helps in releasing steam and prevents them from bursting.

Cooking Time and Techniques

Wrapping in Foil vs. Naked

Should you wrap your potatoes in foil or cook them unwrapped? Each method has its benefits. Wrapping in foil helps to retain moisture, resulting in a creamier texture. Cooking them 'naked' or unwrapped will give you a crispier skin. For a balanced approach, try starting them in foil and finishing unwrapped.

Cooking Time

The million-dollar question: how long does it take to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill? On average, it takes about 45 to 60 minutes to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill set to medium heat. This timeframe can vary based on factors like potato size, grill temperature, and external conditions.

Testing for Doneness

Use a fork or skewer to test the potato's doneness. It should slide in easily without resistance. An internal temperature of around 210F (99C) is ideal for perfectly baked potatoes.

Adding Flavors and Toppings

Basic Seasonings

A simple seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper can work wonders. However, dont hesitate to add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.

Creative Toppings

Classic: Sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.
Cheese Lover's: Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or blue cheese.
Healthy: Greek yogurt, scallions, and avocado.
Spicy: Jalapenos, hot sauce, and ranch dressing.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of cooking baked potatoes on a charcoal grill can add a new dimension to your barbecue repertoire. Not only does it require an understanding of the right techniques, but it also opens up a world of flavors and textures that you can experiment with.

For more charcoal grilling tips, feel free to read our guide on cooking pork on a charcoal grill.