How to Make Perfect Traeger Baked Potatoes

Overview

This recipe for salt-crusted baked potatoes provides a delightful combination of a salty and crisp exterior with a warm and creamy interior. Ideal for a pellet grill, it incorporates the use of mesquite wood pellets for an added smoky flavor. The preparation and cooking times are straightforward, making it a practical yet delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 6 russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• Toppings of choice: butter, sour cream, chives, chopped bacon, shredded cheese

Steps

1. Preheat the Grill: Set the Traeger grill to 450℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, coat the potatoes with canola oil and season them with kosher salt.
3. Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates, close the lid, and bake for about 40 minutes, until soft in the center.
4. Serve: Top the baked potatoes with your favorite toppings and enjoy.

Recommended Products

• Mesquite BBQ Wood Pellets
• Traeger Veggie Rub
• Traeger Grill Cleaner

Unique Article:

The Science Behind the Crust

The secret to achieving the perfect salt-crusted exterior lies in the preparation. Coating the potatoes with canola oil ensures that the skin becomes crispy during grilling, while the kosher salt forms a flavorful crust. This method not only locks in moisture but also infuses the potatoes with a subtle briny taste that pairs beautifully with the smoky aroma from the mesquite pellets.

Step-by-Step Perfection

1. Preheating the Grill: Begin by setting your pellet grill to 450℉. This high temperature is crucial for creating the desired crispy exterior while ensuring the interior becomes tender and fluffy.
2. Oiling and Salting: In a large bowl, thoroughly coat each potato with canola oil. This step is essential for achieving an even cook. Next, generously sprinkle kosher salt over the potatoes, ensuring each one is evenly covered.
3. Grilling: Place the potatoes directly on the preheated grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for approximately 40 minutes. The high heat from the grill, combined with the indirect cooking method, allows the potatoes to cook evenly, resulting in a perfect texture.
4. Serving: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the grill. The crispy, salty skin will be a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy interior. Serve with a variety of toppings such as butter, sour cream, chives, chopped bacon, or shredded cheese to customize each potato to your liking.

Conclusion

Cooking salt-crusted baked potatoes on a pellet grill is more than just a method; it's an experience that combines simplicity with sophistication. The use of mesquite wood pellets not only adds a smoky flavor but also makes the grilling process an enjoyable endeavor. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that's sure to impress.