Grilled Garlic Potato Halves are the ultimate summer side—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with garlicky goodness. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners, these potatoes are seasoned simply and charred to perfection on the grill. They pair effortlessly with grilled meats, burgers, or veggie mains. Quick to prep and hard to resist, these potatoes are a warm-weather favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Flavorful: With garlic and optional smoked paprika, these potato halves are packed with flavor that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Pairing: These grilled potatoes complement a range of dishes—from grilled chicken to veggie burgers—making them a go-to side for any meal.
- Healthy Choice: Made with fresh ingredients and healthy olive oil, they’re a nutritious addition to your summer meals.
- Perfectly Crispy: The grilling process ensures each potato half gets that desirable crispy exterior while remaining fluffy inside.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your grilling experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the high heat needed for achieving crispy charred edges on the potatoes.
- Large Pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly before grilling.
- Colander: Helps drain excess water from boiled potatoes quickly and efficiently.
- Mixing Bowl: Allows you to easily toss the potatoes with seasonings without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby or small Yukon gold potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional: Grated Parmesan, for serving
How to Make Grilled Garlic Potato Halves)
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add halved potatoes and boil for 10–12 minutes or until just fork-tender. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Season
In a large mixing bowl, toss warm potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Ensure all sides are well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the potatoes cut-side down directly on the grates. Grill for about 5–6 minutes or until they are charred and crispy. Flip them over and grill for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the grilled potato halves to a platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot for best results!
How to Serve Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
Grilled Garlic Potato Halves are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions that highlight their delicious flavors and complement your meal.
With Grilled Meats
- Steak: The rich flavors of grilled steak pair wonderfully with the garlicky potatoes.
- Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers enhance the taste experience with these crispy potatoes.
- Pork Chops: Serve alongside grilled pork chops for a hearty and satisfying meal.
As a Salad Base
- Mixed Greens: Toss warm potato halves on top of mixed greens for a delightful salad.
- Caesar Salad: Use them in place of croutons for a twist on the classic Caesar salad.
Dipping Sauces
- Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli complements the grilled flavor, adding richness.
- Chimichurri Sauce: The fresh herbs in chimichurri create a refreshing contrast to the potatoes.
How to Perfect Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
To ensure your Grilled Garlic Potato Halves turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Boldly Season: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Coat potatoes thoroughly with olive oil and spices for maximum flavor.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby or small Yukon gold potatoes work best due to their buttery texture and ability to hold up on the grill.
- Pre-cook Wisely: Boil until just fork-tender; this helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior when grilling.
- Watch Your Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial. Too low won’t give you that nice char, while too high may burn them before cooking through.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
Grilled Garlic Potato Halves make a fantastic side dish, but they shine even brighter when paired with other delicious options. Here are some great side dishes to consider.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn pairs well with the garlic flavors in the potatoes.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the dish’s richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella provide a vibrant contrast to grilled potatoes.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the savory garlic taste.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and tangy baked beans offer a hearty addition to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: For those who can’t get enough garlic, serve warm garlic bread alongside your potatoes for extra indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling can be tricky, especially when it comes to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Grilled Garlic Potato Halves. Here are some common mistakes to look out for:
Skipping the parboil: Not boiling the potatoes first can lead to uneven cooking. Always parboil to ensure they become tender inside while getting crispy outside on the grill.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many potatoes on the grill can lower the temperature and cause steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches for optimal crispiness.
Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your potatoes well before grilling may result in bland flavors. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and spices for a delicious taste.
Using low heat: Grilling on low heat won’t create that desirable char. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect grilling results.
Ignoring the flip: Failing to flip the potatoes can lead to uneven charring. Flip them halfway through grilling to achieve an even crispness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Grilled Garlic Potato Halves in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
- Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes. Note that they may lose some crispiness.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Grilled Garlic Potato Halves extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you preheat your grill properly and don’t overcrowd the grill grates. Also, consider leaving them on cut-side down longer before flipping.
Can I use other types of potatoes for Grilled Garlic Potato Halves?
Absolutely! While Yukon golds are ideal, you can also use red potatoes or fingerlings. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.
What should I serve with Grilled Garlic Potato Halves?
These grilled potato halves pair well with burgers, steaks, or grilled veggies. They also make a great side dish for barbecues and picnics.
How can I customize my Grilled Garlic Potato Halves?
Feel free to add different herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or even chili flakes. You can also experiment with cheese toppings after grilling!
Final Thoughts
Grilled Garlic Potato Halves are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Their crispy exterior and soft interior make them a delightful addition to any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite herbs or cheeses. Try making these delicious potato halves at your next summer gathering; they’re sure to impress!
Grilled Garlic Potato Halves
Grilled Garlic Potato Halves are the ideal summer side dish that combines a crispy exterior with a tender, fluffy interior, enhanced by rich garlic flavor. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners, these potatoes are simple to prepare and complement grilled meats, veggie mains, and salads alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they become a favorite for gatherings and family meals. Whether served alongside juicy steaks or tossed into a vibrant salad, these garlic-infused potato halves are sure to elevate any dining experience.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (1 cup per serving) 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby Yukon gold potatoes (halved)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add halved potatoes and boil for 10–12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, toss warm potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place potato halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes until charred; flip and grill for another 2–3 minutes.
- Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For extra crispiness, ensure the grill is preheated well and avoid overcrowding the grates. Experiment with different seasonings such as rosemary or chili flakes for added flavor.