There’s something undeniably satisfying about hosting a backyard barbecue, where the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients mingle in the warm sun. As the grill heats up, I can almost taste the anticipation in the air. That’s when I reach for my skewers to whip up these Skewered Grilled Potatoes—trust me, they will steal the show.
Picture this: tender new potatoes, kissed by smoky flavors and infused with the aromatic touch of rosemary, all coated in the rich essence of bacon drippings. The sizzling sound as they meet the grill makes my mouth water every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or simply trying to break free from the monotonous cycle of fast food, these skewers are quick to prepare and will leave your guests raving about how good they are.
Join me as I share this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that proves grilled potatoes can be the star of your summer gatherings!
Why are Skewered Grilled Potatoes a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: Smoky, infused with rosemary, and packed with a delicious richness from bacon drippings—what’s not to love?
Quick prep: In just 40 minutes, you can serve a crowd-pleasing dish that impresses without stress.
Versatile delight: These skewers are perfect for BBQs, tailgating, or even a simple weeknight dinner.
Host favorite: Everyone loves grilled potatoes! This recipe guarantees compliments and requests for seconds.
Effortless elegance: Combine rustic charm with gourmet taste, showcasing how easy it is to elevate your cooking.
Give these skewers a try next time you’re looking to wow your guests with restaurant-quality ideas right from your grill!
Skewered Grilled Potatoes Ingredients
For the Skewers
• New potatoes – 1 1/2-2 pounds; they’re the star of your skewers, tender and flavorful when grilled.
• Wooden skewers – 9-11 skewers; soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
For the Coating
• Bacon fat drippings – 1/2-2/3 cup; this gives your potatoes a mouthwatering richness, but feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Salt – 2 1/2 teaspoons; brings out the flavors, so don’t skip this essential seasoning.
• Paprika – 2 teaspoons; adds a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to your skewers.
• Fresh rosemary – 2 teaspoons finely chopped; this aromatic herb infuses a fresh, earthy flavor.
• Black pepper – 1 1/2 teaspoons; a touch of spice to enhance the overall taste.
Optional Finish
• Lemon – 1 lemon; drizzle some fresh juice on top for an extra zing that brightens the dish.
These Skewered Grilled Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a delightful centerpiece for your barbecue! Enjoy every fragrant bite!
How to Make Skewered Grilled Potatoes
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Boil Water: Bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt to season the water, enhancing the potatoes’ flavor.
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Cook Potatoes: Wash the new potatoes and place them in the boiling water for 12-15 minutes. You want them fork-tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them!
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Ice Bath: Prepare a large bowl filled with cold water and ice. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and quickly plunge them into the ice bath for about 10 minutes to stop the cooking process.
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Preheat Grill: While the potatoes are chilling, preheat your grill to 375°F (medium-high heat), creating that perfect environment for grilling.
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Dry Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the ice bath and carefully blot them dry with paper towels. A dry potato ensures better grilling and a crispy exterior!
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Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the remaining salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped rosemary. Set this fragrant seasoning mixture aside to enhance the flavor of your skewers.
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Assemble Skewers: Carefully thread 3-4 potatoes onto each skewer, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Brush them generously with melted bacon drippings or olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture on top.
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Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Close the lid and let them cook for 2 minutes, then give them a slight turn. Repeat this process several times until they achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
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Serve: Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over them for a zesty finish. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh rosemary for a stunning presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Skewered Grilled Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip them up quickly when your schedule gets hectic! You can pre-cook the new potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container, ensuring they maintain their freshness and flavor. Before grilling, simply let them come to room temperature, then thread them onto skewers and brush with bacon drippings. When ready to serve, grill the skewers for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality Skewered Grilled Potatoes ready with minimal effort, ideal for surprise guests or busy weeknights!
Skewered Grilled Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful tweaks that will surely elevate your skewered potatoes to new flavor heights!
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Herb-Infused: Swap rosemary for fresh thyme or oregano to add a different aromatic twist that complements the smoky flavor perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy surprise that will set your taste buds dancing.
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Vegan Version: Use olive oil instead of bacon fat drippings for a plant-based option that still delivers loads of flavor and satisfaction.
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Cheesy Delight: Before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a savory, cheesy finish that adds a delightful richness to each skewer.
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Sweet Glaze: Brush the skewers with balsamic glaze or honey before grilling for a sweet and tangy glazing that contrasts beautifully with the earthy potatoes.
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Vegetable Mix-In: Thread cherry tomatoes or bell pepper chunks on the skewers alongside the potatoes for a colorful and nutritious upgrade that adds freshness.
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Crispy Finish: After grilling, place the skewers under the broiler for a minute or two for an extra crispy finish that will have everyone reaching for more.
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Lemon Zest Boost: Enhance the zesty flavor by adding fresh lemon zest before serving—this little trick brightens the dish and adds an appealing fragrance.
How to Store and Freeze Skewered Grilled Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover skewered grilled potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before refrigerating to preserve texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked skewered grilled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen skewers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior.
Airtight Packaging: When storing in the fridge, ensure the container is airtight to prevent moisture loss and preserve the flavors of the grilled potatoes.
What to Serve with Skewered Grilled Potatoes?
Building a delightful meal around these skewered grilled potatoes opens up a world of flavor and variety that will make your gatherings unforgettable.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the tender potatoes for a well-rounded plate. Together, they create a festive barbecue experience.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn complements the smoky essence of the skewers, enhancing the overall freshness of your summer feast. Imagine biting into the crisp kernels!
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm potatoes, adding a bit of zest to your meal and keeping things light and fun.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any flavors left on the plate, making it a comforting addition that everyone loves. Dip it in any juices left behind!
- Grilled Veggies: A colorful mix of grilled bell peppers and zucchini elevates the meal’s visual appeal, while offering a delightful textural experience with fresh, charred flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, a cucumber salad adds vibrant freshness to your plate; its coolness is a wonderful balance against the warmth of grilled potatoes.
- Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea brings a refreshing sip that matches the outdoor vibes; the citrusy brightness is a natural fit for grilled flavors.
- Brownie Bites: End your meal on a sweet note with gooey brownie bites; their rich chocolate makes for the perfect comforting dessert after a savory feast.
Expert Tips for Skewered Grilled Potatoes
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use new or baby potatoes for a tender texture; avoid larger ones, as they may take longer to cook and may not grill evenly.
• Ice Bath Importance: Don’t skip the ice bath! This step halts cooking, ensuring your potatoes stay firm and crispy after grilling.
• Watch the Grill Temperature: Maintain grill heat around 375°F; too hot can char the outsides while leaving insides undercooked.
• Even Seasoning: Ensure every potato is evenly coated with bacon drippings and spice mix for full flavor in every bite of your skewered grilled potatoes.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve your skewers hot off the grill; they’ll be at their peak flavor and inviting aroma!
Skewered Grilled Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for skewered grilled potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for new or baby potatoes. They cook quickly and maintain a tender texture when grilled. Larger potatoes can be unevenly cooked, so stick with the smaller ones for consistent grilling.
What’s the best way to store leftover skewered grilled potatoes?
After cooling completely, place your leftover skewered grilled potatoes in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This way, you can enjoy them later without losing their delicious texture!
Can I freeze skewered grilled potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! First, let the skewered grilled potatoes cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply reheat them from frozen!
What if my grilled potatoes are overcooked or mushy?
Oh no! If you find your potatoes are overcooked, it’s a bummer but don’t worry too much. Next time, reduce the boiling time to about 10-12 minutes for a firmer texture. If they are mushy on the grill, remember to monitor carefully! Turning them every 2 minutes helps avoid that mushy fate.
Are skewered grilled potatoes safe for pets?
Generally speaking, yes! Cooked potatoes are safe for dogs in moderation. However, make sure they are plain and free from seasonings like garlic or onion, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about any ingredients.
Can I use olive oil instead of bacon drippings?
Very! If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil is a fantastic substitute. It still gives a delightful flavor and helps the seasonings stick to the potatoes beautifully. This can make your skewered grilled potatoes a little healthier while still being absolutely scrumptious!
Savor Skewered Grilled Potatoes for Your Next BBQ Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Wash the new potatoes and place them in the boiling water for 12-15 minutes.
- Prepare a large bowl filled with cold water and ice. Once the potatoes are done, drain and plunge into the ice bath for 10 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to 375°F (medium-high heat).
- Remove the potatoes from the ice bath and blot dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine remaining salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped rosemary.
- Thread 3-4 potatoes onto each skewer. Brush with bacon drippings or olive oil and sprinkle seasoning on top.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill, cooking for 2 minutes per side until golden-brown.
- Remove from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the skewers before serving.