There's nothing quite like the smoky, earthy flavor of a perfectly baked potato cooked on a charcoal grill. Whether you're a seasoned barbecue enthusiast or a novice griller, mastering how to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill is an essential skill for any outdoor chef. We'll walk you through the steps, provide some pro tips, and ensure that your potatoes come out perfectly every time.

Ingredients and Equipment

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Grill

Before you start cooking, it's essential to prepare your charcoal grill. Start by cleaning the grates with a stainless steel cleaner. Then, arrange the charcoal briquettes into a pyramid shape in the center of the grill. Using lighter fluid, carefully ignite the charcoal. Allow the coals to burn until they are covered with a thin layer of gray ash. This ensures that the grill is at the optimal temperature for cooking.

Step 2: Prepping the Potatoes

While the charcoal is heating up, prepare your potatoes. Wash and scrub each potato thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Using a sharp knife, poke several holes around each potato to allow steam to escape while cooking. Coat each potato in a layer of olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Wrapping and Placing the Potatoes

Next, wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it helps to retain moisture and ensures even cooking. Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the grill grates, aligning them, so they are not directly over the hottest coals. Close the grill lid and allow the potatoes to cook for about 45-60 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Checking for Doneness

After the initial 45-minute mark, use a fork to check the potatoes for doneness. The fork should slide easily into the center of the potato. If you encounter resistance, rewrap the potato and allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes before checking again.

Step 5: Adding Toppings

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the grill and unwrap the foil. Let them cool slightly before cutting them open. Top your baked potatoes with butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, and bacon bits, or any of your favorite toppings. The smoky flavor from the charcoal grill adds a delicious twist to these classic toppings.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes

Here are a few additional tips to elevate your baked potato game:

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking on a charcoal grill due to their high starch content. This allows them to become fluffy and soft on the inside while forming a crispy, flavorful skin on the outside.

Maintaining Heat Control

Consistent heat is vital for perfectly cooked baked potatoes. Keep an eye on your charcoal grill's temperature and adjust the air vents as needed to maintain a steady heat. Avoid frequently lifting the lid, as this allows heat to escape and can result in uneven cooking.

Enhancing Flavor

Consider adding wood chips to your charcoal for an extra smoky flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before adding them directly to the hot coals. Hickory, mesquite, or applewood chips work well with baked potatoes, imparting a unique taste that complements the dish.

For more grilling tips, you can also check common rookie mistakes that many make when grilling over charcoal.

Conclusion

Mastering how to cook a baked potato on a charcoal grill is a skill that will impress your family and friends at any BBQ gathering. The combination of soft, fluffy interiors and smoky, crispy exteriors makes this dish a surefire hit. Remember to clean and maintain your grilling equipment for the best results. Browse our Grill Cleaner and Cutting Board Conditioner to keep your cookware in top shape. Happy grilling!

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