These Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes are a tasty side dish that combines crispy potatoes with smoky bacon and gooey cheese. Perfect for your next cookout!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I like to serve these potatoes with burgers. It’s a sure way to impress family and friends at any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes work well because they cook evenly and have a creamy texture. If they’re unavailable, you could use regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller chunks to mimic the size.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a wonderful crunch and salty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or veggie bacon can be great substitutes, or even crumbled feta for a different taste profile.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a fantastic cheesy flavor. You could swap it for Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even vegan cheese if you’re keeping things dairy-free.
BBQ Sauce: This brings the dish together with a sweet and tangy twist. Homemade sauce or any store-bought variety works well. If you want less sugar, try using a low-sugar alternative or even hot sauce for some heat.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
To achieve tender and tasty potatoes, the preparation steps are crucial. Coating the potatoes with olive oil and spices helps with flavor and can prevent sticking. Wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil keeps steam trapped, speeding up the cooking process.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat as this ensures cooking without burning.
- Cook in the foil packet for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by piercing with a fork; they should easily fork-tender when ready.
- Keep in mind, opening the packet should be done carefully to avoid steam burns. Wait a moment for the steam to settle before digging in!
How to Make Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Other:
- Aluminum foil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to grill. You’ll spend a few moments mixing the potatoes and then let them grill until they’re tender and deliciously cheesy. It’s an easy and tasty side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This usually takes about 10 minutes. You want it nice and warm to cook those potatoes perfectly!
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give them a good toss with your hands or a spoon to make sure each potato is evenly coated. Yum!
3. Create the Foil Packet:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and lay it flat on your counter. Spoon the seasoned potato mixture in the center of the foil. It’s like making a little boat for your potatoes!
4. Add the Toppings:
Drizzle the barbecue sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle the cooked bacon on top. This will give your potatoes that amazing flavor!
5. Seal the Foil Packet:
Fold the aluminum foil over the potatoes to create a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped so the steam stays inside, cooking the potatoes nicely.
6. Grill the Potatoes:
Place your foil packet on the grill. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. You can relax and enjoy the grilling aroma!
7. Melt the Cheddar:
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully open the packet (watch out for the steam!). Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then close the packet again. Grill for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese. It’s going to smell incredible!
8. Garnish and Serve:
After the cheese has melted, remove the packet from the grill. Be careful of the hot steam! Garnish the potatoes with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
9. Enjoy Your Dish:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the Cheddar Bacon BBQ Grilled Potatoes hot as a delicious side dish or a fun snack. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes work great here, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make it dairy-free, simply omit the cheddar cheese and use a dairy-free barbecue sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the potato mixture and assemble the foil packets ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to grill, simply cook them as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a delicious second serving!
