BBQ Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Smokin' Delicious Spuds

Right, let's get down to business and talk about baked potatoes. But not just any baked potatoes, mind you. We're diving into the world of BBQ baked potatoes, the kind that get that irresistible smoky, sweet, and tangy flavour from hanging out in a hot smoker for a good while. Trust me, it's a taste sensation that's hard to beat. This isn't just a recipe guide; it's a love letter to the humble spud, transformed into a flavour bomb. We'll be going through everything from picking the right potato to the best BBQ rubs and toppings. I'll share my own tips and tricks I've learned over the years, even the ones that didn't quite work out – because let's face it, even seasoned BBQ-ers have their fair share of fails! Get ready to take your potato game to a whole new level. This guide is your one-stop shop for turning a basic baked potato into something truly extraordinary. So, grab your apron, fire up the smoker, and let's get started!

(Part 1) The Potato: It’s All About the Base

Picking the Perfect Spud

Let's start with the foundation of any good BBQ baked potato: the potato itself. You've got to choose wisely, or your whole masterpiece could fall apart. And trust me, there's nothing worse than a dry, crumbly potato! I've tried pretty much every potato under the sun, and for me, the best ones for BBQ are:

• russet potatoes: These are the classic choice for baked potatoes. They're big, starchy, and hold their shape well in the smoker. Plus, they have that perfect fluffy texture when cooked. Think of them as the reliable workhorse of the potato world.
• yukon gold potatoes: These are my personal favourites. They have a lovely buttery flavour and a slightly waxy texture, which gives them a bit more bite than Russets. They're also fantastic for grilling and roasting. These are the "fancy" potatoes, with a bit more personality.
• Red Bliss Potatoes: These are a good alternative if you can't find Russets or Yukons. They're a bit smaller and have a slightly thinner skin, but they still cook up nicely in the smoker. They're the "versatile" potatoes, always ready to step up.

Preparing the Potato for Smokin’

Now that you've chosen your potato, it's time to get it ready for the smoker. I know, it's tempting to just chuck them in there, but trust me, a little prep goes a long way. Here's what I do:

• Scrub ‘em clean: Give those potatoes a good scrub with a vegetable brush to get rid of any dirt or debris. You can even give them a quick rinse under cold water. A clean potato means a clean flavour!
• Prick ‘em good: This is crucial to prevent those potatoes from exploding in the smoker! Use a fork or a skewer to poke a few holes all over the surface. It's all about letting the steam escape safely.
• Wrap ‘em up: I like to wrap my potatoes in foil before I put them in the smoker. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from drying out. You can use plain foil, or if you're feeling fancy, use some parchment paper for a bit of extra steam. It's like giving your potato a cozy little blanket.

(Part 2) Smokin’ Time: Getting That BBQ Goodness

Setting Up the Smoker

Right, now comes the fun part! Setting up your smoker is like setting the stage for a delicious performance. You want to create the perfect environment for your potatoes to soak up that smoky flavour. It's a bit like creating a smoky spa for your potatoes!Here's what you need to do:

• Choose your fuel: I'm a big fan of hickory wood for smoking potatoes, but you can use any kind of wood you like. Just avoid woods with strong flavours like mesquite or pecan, as they can overpower the potato. Think of it as choosing the right soundtrack for your potato's flavour journey.
• Set the temperature: The ideal temperature for smoking potatoes is around 250°F (120°C). You don't want them to cook too quickly, or they'll end up dry and tough. It's all about a slow, gentle smoke, like a good conversation with a friend.
• Get that smoke rollin’: Make sure you've got enough wood chips or chunks to keep the smoker going for the entire cooking time. I usually use about 1-2 cups of wood chips. You want to create a continuous flow of smoky goodness for your potatoes.

Smoke ‘Em if You Got ‘Em

Finally, the moment of truth! You've got your potatoes wrapped, your smoker's humming, and you're ready to start smokin'!Here's the breakdown:

• Place the potatoes: Carefully place your wrapped potatoes in the smoker. Make sure they're not touching each other, so the heat can circulate evenly. You want to give each potato its own space to enjoy the smoky goodness.
• Let ‘em smoke: It's time to be patient! The exact time it takes to smoke a potato will vary depending on its size and the temperature of your smoker. But generally, you'll need to smoke them for about 2-3 hours. It's a bit like waiting for a good bottle of wine to age.
• Check for doneness: You can check for doneness by poking a fork into the potato. If it goes in easily and comes out clean, it's ready to go. If it's still firm, give it a bit more time. It's like checking if your potato is ready for its big reveal.

(Part 3) Time to Top It Off: Turning a Spud into a Masterpiece

A Rub for That Extra Zing

Now that your potatoes are smoky and delicious, it's time to take them to the next level with a good BBQ rub. I like to use a simple rub that's made with a combination of spices, herbs, and sugar. It's like giving your potato a little bit of extra love.Here's a basic recipe you can use:

• 1/2 cup smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

Just combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Then, once your potatoes are out of the smoker, carefully unwrap them and rub the mixture all over the surface. The heat from the potato will help the rub stick to the skin. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can add other spices and herbs to your rub, like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or dried oregano. It's like adding a little bit of your own personality to the flavour.

The Classics: Toppings for Every Taste

Now, the toppings are where things get really fun! You can go as simple or as elaborate as you like. I've been experimenting for years, and here are a few of my favourite classic toppings:

• Sour Cream and Chives: This is a classic combination that never fails. The tangy sour cream cuts through the richness of the potato, and the chives add a fresh, herbaceous note. It's like a classic love story, always a good choice.
• Butter and Cheese: Just a simple dollop of butter and a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese makes for a satisfying and comforting topping. You can even add a dash of paprika for a bit of extra colour and flavour. It's a comforting hug in a bowl.
• bbq sauce: This is a must-have for any BBQ baked potato. You can use your favourite BBQ sauce, or get creative and make your own. Just be sure to use a good quality sauce that's not too sweet or too thick. It's like adding a kiss of flavour to your potato.

Get Creative: Think Beyond the Ordinary

Okay, so now you've got the basics down. But let's talk about pushing the boundaries, right? There's a whole world of creative toppings out there waiting to be explored! Here's what I like to try:

• Bacon and Blue Cheese: For a salty, rich, and tangy combination, try crumbled bacon and blue cheese. It's a little bit decadent, but totally worth it. It's like adding a touch of luxury to your potato.
• Pulled Pork: For a truly BBQ-inspired topping, try some pulled pork. It's juicy, smoky, and pairs perfectly with the potato. It's like a BBQ party in a bowl.
• grilled chicken: For a lighter option, try some grilled chicken. You can use chicken breast or thighs, and season it with your favourite spices. It's a healthy and flavourful option.
• Guacamole and Salsa: For a southwestern twist, try some guacamole and salsa. It's a fresh and flavorful combination that's perfect for summer. It's like taking your potato on a vacation to Mexico.

(Part 4) More Than Just a Side: Turning a Spud into a Meal

Beyond the side dish: BBQ Baked Potatoes as a Hearty Meal

Okay, so we've covered the basics and the creative stuff. But what about making a BBQ baked potato the star of the show? It can be a meal on its own, packed with flavour and texture. It's time to give your potato the spotlight!

Building a BBQ Baked Potato Feast

Here's how to turn your spud into a complete meal:

• Start with the Protein: Choose a protein that complements the BBQ flavour. Pulled pork, shredded chicken, grilled steak, even some spicy sausages work great. Just make sure it's cooked and ready to go. The protein is like the main character in your potato story.
• Layer It Up: Pile on the toppings! Think beans, corn, chopped peppers, even some diced onions. The idea is to create a variety of textures and flavours. It's like building a delicious potato tower!
• Sauce It Up: Don't forget the sauce! BBQ sauce is a given, but don't be afraid to get creative. A drizzle of chipotle mayo or a dollop of spicy mustard can add some extra oomph. The sauce is like the secret ingredient that brings everything together.
• Finish with Freshness: Top it off with some fresh ingredients for that final touch. Sliced tomatoes, spring onions, or a sprinkle of cilantro add a lovely pop of colour and freshness. It's like adding a beautiful finishing touch to your masterpiece.

(Part 5) The Big BBQ Baked Potato Showdown: Putting It All Together

My Favourite BBQ Baked Potato Combo

I've been experimenting with different combos for years, and here's my all-time favourite:

The Ultimate Smokin’ Spud:

• Potato: Yukon Gold, because it's just got that perfect balance of fluffy and slightly waxy. It's the ideal canvas for all the delicious toppings.
• Rub: My basic paprika rub with a touch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. It adds a subtle kick to the smoky flavour.
• Topping: Pulled pork, slow-cooked in my smoker with applewood chips for that sweet and smoky flavour. I also add a generous amount of BBQ sauce, a dollop of chipotle mayo, and some diced red onions for a bit of crunch. It's a combination of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavours.
• Finishing Touch: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a few slices of pickled jalape??os for that extra kick. It adds a burst of freshness and a touch of heat.

Experiment and Find Your Perfect Combo

Now, this is just my personal favourite, and it's all about finding what you love! Experiment with different potatoes, rubs, toppings, and sauces. Don't be afraid to get creative and see what works best for you. The best potato combo is the one that makes you happy!

(Part 6) FAQs: Your BBQ Baked Potato Questions Answered

1. What if my potato explodes in the smoker?

This can happen if you don't prick the potato enough. But don't panic! It's a common mistake, and it just means you need to be more thorough with your pricking next time. Just clean up the mess and carry on! It happens to the best of us.

2. How long do I need to smoke a potato?

The exact time will vary depending on the size of the potato and the temperature of your smoker. But generally, you'll need to smoke them for about 2-3 hours. You can check for doneness by poking a fork into the potato. If it goes in easily and comes out clean, it's ready to go. Patience is key in the world of BBQ!

3. Can I bake potatoes in the oven instead of smoking them?

You can, but it won't have that same smoky flavour. If you're short on time or don't have a smoker, you can certainly bake potatoes in the oven. Just bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 hour. But remember, the smoky flavour is what makes BBQ baked potatoes special!

4. Can I add toppings before smoking?

It's not recommended to add toppings before smoking. This will make the toppings dry out and won't allow the potato to cook evenly. It's best to add toppings after the potato is cooked and ready to eat. It's all about timing and letting the potato shine!

5. What's the best way to store leftover BBQ baked potatoes?

Just let them cool down completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for up to 3 days. But let's be honest, leftovers rarely last that long!

(Part 7) Beyond the BBQ: Expanding Your Potato Horizons

Turning Your Skills into a Sideshow

Okay, so you've mastered the BBQ baked potato. But what about taking it to the next level? You can use the same techniques to create other amazing potato dishes! It's like unlocking a whole new world of potato possibilities!

The World of Potato Possibilities

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Smoked potato salad: Use your smoked potatoes as the base for a delicious and smoky potato salad. Just dice them up, mix them with your favourite dressing, and add some chopped celery, onion, and hard-boiled eggs. It's like giving your potato salad a smoky makeover.
• Smoked potato soup: For a hearty and flavourful soup, blend up your smoked potatoes with some chicken or vegetable broth, cream, and your favourite spices. It's like capturing the essence of the BBQ potato in a bowl.
• Smoked Potato Fries: Cut your smoked potatoes into fries, toss them with some olive oil and spices, and bake them in the oven until they’re golden brown and crispy. You can even make these in an air fryer for a healthier option. It's like adding a smoky twist to a classic snack.

(Part 8) The Final Word: Let’s Get Smokin’!

Right, so there you have it. Your complete guide to BBQ baked potatoes! I hope you've enjoyed this journey as much as I have. Now it's time to put your newfound knowledge to the test! Grab your smoker, pick out your favourite potato, and get ready to create some seriously delicious BBQ baked potatoes. You won't be disappointed. Happy smokin'! Remember, the best BBQ baked potato is the one that you make with love and a little bit of creativity. So go out there and experiment! And if you do, let me know what you create!