Perfect Baked Potatoes on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Baking potatoes on an Arteflame grill elevates this classic side dish to new heights. The grill’s unique design allows for perfect heat distribution, ensuring crispy skins and fluffy insides. Topped with butter, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits, these baked potatoes are the perfect complement to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large Russet potatoes
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• 1/4 cup bacon bits
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Arteflame Grill: Fire up your Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling. Ensure the flat cooktop is hot enough for even cooking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork and brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with salt.
3. Grill the Potatoes: Place the potatoes on the flat cooktop near the outer edge where the temperature is lower. Cook for about 45 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are crispy and a fork easily pierces the center.
4. Alternative: Move the charcoal / wood to the side crating some space.  Wrap the potatoes in aluminum foil and place them directly in the grill in the space you created.
5. Finish the Potatoes: Move the potatoes to the center grill grate for a final sear if you want extra crispy skins.
6. Top and Serve: Split the potatoes open, fluff the insides with a fork, and top with sour cream, cheddar cheese, chives, and bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite main course.

Tips

• Don't Burn Them: Potatoes are almost impossible to over cook but you can burn them...
• Micro Wave: You can micro wave the potatoes for 5 minutes before grilling them to speed up the process.
• Use Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor to the potatoes.
• Temperature Zones: Utilize the different heat zones on the Arteflame cooktop for optimal cooking.
• Crispy Skins: For extra crispy skins, finish the potatoes on the center grill grate for a quick sear.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Baked Potatoes: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme before grilling.
2. Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top with steamed broccoli, crumbled bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
3. Mexican Baked Potatoes: Add black beans, salsa, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
4. Cheesy Baked Potatoes: Mix shredded mozzarella and Parmesan with the cheddar cheese topping.
5. BBQ Baked Potatoes: Add pulled pork and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.

Drink Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy toppings.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea complements the baked potatoes.
• Light Beer: A light lager or pilsner balances the richness of the toppings.

Suggested Appetizer

• Grilled Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and grill on the Arteflame flat cooktop.

Suggested Dessert

• Grilled Peaches: Halve and pit peaches, brush with honey, and grill on the flat cooktop until caramelized.