Grilled Ranch Potatoes

If you’re searching for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, look no further than these Grilled Ranch Potatoes. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a zesty ranch seasoning, these potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re pairing them with grilled chicken, steak, or enjoying them on their own, this recipe elevates the humble potato to something truly special. Plus, grilling infuses a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy, herby ranch flavor. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Grilled Ranch Potatoes are the perfect combination of simplicity and bold flavor. Here’s why you’ll love making them again and again:

• Flavor-packed: The ranch seasoning adds a savory, tangy edge that transforms plain potatoes into a taste sensation.
• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly.
• Perfect texture: Grilling gives the potatoes a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Serve these potatoes alongside your favorite grilled meats, toss them in a salad, or snack on them solo.
• Great for gatherings: They’re an ideal side dish to bring to barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade with dried herbs and spices)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for a bright finish

How To Make Grilled Ranch Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by washing your baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If the potatoes are larger, cut them into halves or quarters to ensure even cooking. Smaller baby potatoes can be left whole.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are just tender but not falling apart. This step helps speed up grilling time and guarantees a soft interior.

Step 3: Drain and Dry

Drain the potatoes and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve the crispy texture on the grill.

Step 4: Season the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes gently in this mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Grill the Potatoes

Place the potatoes directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket for easier handling. Grill the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden-brown crust and grill marks. They should be tender inside when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove the potatoes from the grill and transfer to a serving bowl. If desired, drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.

Expert Tips

• Parboiling is key: Don’t skip the parboil step—it ensures the potatoes cook evenly on the grill without burning.
• Use a grill basket if your potatoes are small to prevent them from falling through the grates.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the flavors meld together.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can roast these potatoes in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes: After grilling, sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese over the potatoes and let it melt before serving.
• Spicy Ranch Potatoes: Add chili powder or smoked chipotle powder to the seasoning mix for a smoky heat.
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill into the seasoning blend.
• Bacon Ranch Potatoes: Toss grilled potatoes with crispy cooked bacon bits for an indulgent twist.
• Veggie Medley: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the grill alongside the potatoes for a colorful side dish.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled ranch potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQ

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes! Regular potatoes like russets or Yukon gold can be used. Just cut them into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly and adjust parboiling time accordingly.

Is it necessary to parboil the potatoes before grilling?

While you can grill raw potatoes, parboiling is highly recommended. It speeds up the grilling process and ensures a soft interior while achieving a crispy outside.

Can I make my own ranch seasoning mix?

Absolutely! A simple homemade ranch seasoning can be made using dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a bit of dried chives. This way, you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives.

What if I don’t have access to a grill?

No grill? No problem! You can roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes or cook them in an air fryer until crispy and tender.

Conclusion

Grilled Ranch Potatoes are a delicious, easy-to-make side dish that brings vibrant flavor and satisfying texture to your meals. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of grill time, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The zesty ranch seasoning combined with the smoky char from the grill makes these potatoes utterly irresistible. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a side dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!