These Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes are a tasty treat! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, loaded with melted cheese and crispy bacon pieces. Yum!
Who doesn’t love potatoes dressed up with bacon and cheese? I like to serve these at cookouts, and they never last long. Everyone wants seconds, and I can’t blame them! 😄
Making these is super easy, just season, grill, and enjoy. They pair perfectly with burgers or hot dogs, making them a hit at any summer gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their creamy texture. If you can’t find them, feel free to use regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic here, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Both melt beautifully and add flavor.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a wonderful crunch. Need a substitute? Try turkey bacon for a lighter option, or you can use crispy mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for best results. If you’re looking for a healthier option, there are vinegar-based sauces or even homemade sauces that can work beautifully here.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness, but vegetable oil or canola oil can stand in if you’re looking for a neutral flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Cook Tender and Flavorful?
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes is about managing moisture and heat. Use the foil packet to trap steam, which helps cook them through. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure potatoes are evenly coated with olive oil and BBQ sauce to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Seal the foil packet tightly to prevent steam from escaping; this keeps the potatoes tender.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 20-25 mins, flipping halfway to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Remember to check the potatoes for tenderness using a fork before adding the bacon and cheese!
How to Make Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Other:
- Aluminum foil (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the potatoes and getting everything ready, plus 25-30 minutes on the grill to cook and melt the cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This usually takes around 10 minutes. Make sure your grill is nice and hot before you add the potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the potatoes are evenly coated with all those delicious flavors.
3. Create a Foil Packet:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and lay it flat. Spread the potato mixture in the center of the foil. Then, fold the sides of the foil up and pinch them together to make a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly closed to avoid any leaking while cooking.
4. Grill the Potatoes:
Place the foil packet on the preheated grill. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip the packet halfway through so that the potatoes cook evenly. They’re done when they are tender.
5. Add the Cheese and Bacon:
After the potatoes are cooked, carefully open the foil packet (watch out for steam!). Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Close the packet again and place it back on the grill for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, take the packet off the grill and carefully open it again. Pour the tasty potatoes into a serving dish. Lastly, garnish with the chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for this recipe, you can also use regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking. Remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the potato pieces.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you can use a combination of ketchup mixed with a little honey and Worcestershire sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor. Alternatively, try a homemade BBQ sauce using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Potatoes?
Store any leftover grilled potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little olive oil to bring back that grilled flavor!
Can I Make These Potatoes in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Just preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the potatoes as instructed, then place the foil packet on a baking sheet and bake for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway. Add the bacon and cheese for the last 10 minutes of baking to melt the cheese perfectly!
