Like cakes, steaks, and burgers, baked potatoes are ready when they reach a specific internal temperature range. Never serve rock-hard potatoes again with these tips!
Growing up, I ate exactly 3 vegetables: corn, canned peas, and potatoes. My parents would grow extra potatoes just so I’d eat at least some vegetables. Now, decades later, while I eat pretty much any vegetable (except beets as they are just weird potatoes are still my favorite.
Weekly for years I bake/grill/smoke at least 5-10 russets and sweet potatoes to incorporate into various dishes for meal prep. While making them is simple, you need to remember this one key thing below when it comes to knowing when they are ready.
Baked Potato Temperature
Whether you’re baking potatoes or grilling them, always rely on the internal temperature of the potato. The type and size of the potato don’t matter.
I use this Instant Read Thermometer every time I make my ‘taters to ensure that they are done to perfection every time!
For baked/grilled/smoked potatoes you are looking for an internal temperature between 200-210F. Sure you can probe them with a fork or thin blade but the thermometer is most accurate
- 200-201F: your potatoes will have a crispy outer skin while the flesh is soft, slight and fluffy throughout the potato
- Probing Spots: when you have larger potatoes always probe it in a few spots to ensure that the potato is cooked all the way through
Step 1 | Bake – Grill – Smoke Your Potatoes
- When it comes to making potatoes, follow one of these posts (baking potatoes or making them on the grill) when it comes to making them.
- Depending on the size of your potato, it can take as little as 30 minutes to close to 1.5-2 hours to get to the perfect temperature.
Step 2 | Baked Potato Temperature
- Stick an Instant Read Thermometer into several potatoes, preferably into the thickest part. You want a range between 200 and 210F.
- Once they are at temperature, please remove them and serve or allow them to cool completely and store them in your fridge for a future meal.
How to Grill Baked Potatoes
Grilling regular and sweet potatoes can elevate your outdoor cooking to a whole new level. Learn my tips on how to grill both types of potatoes perfectly. Get ready to elevate your grilled potato game!
In this post, I walk you through the best way to make these on the grill or smoker, why not use foil, and how to keep them warm.
The Best Oven Baked Potatoes
There is something truly amazing about American Baked Potatoes. That crunchy, salted skin with that tender and fluffy potato flesh. Find out today how to make the best oven-baked potatoes!
In this post, I discuss the difference between American and jacket potatoes, why not use the microwave, and why not use foil.
Baked Potato FAQs
- Is the temperature the same for sweet potatoes?: Yes! Regardless of the type or size of the potato, you want to go for 200-210F.
- Can I make baked potatoes ahead of time?: Absolutely! I do this weekend! There’s no reason to make 1 potato if you use potatoes throughout the week.
Looking For More TKW Family Favorite Potato Recipes?
Pizza Stuffed Potato Skins
Ultimate Loaded Chili Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Easy Creamy Boursin Potato Soup with Shallots
This one-pot creamy Boursin Potato Soup explodes with flavor. Finished with bacon, green onions, & cheese, it’s truly out of this world! Rich, velvety, and comforting, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Smothered Alfredo Chicken Casserole With Potatoes Bacon And Broccoli
Easy White Cheddar Potato Leek Soup with Bacon and Chives
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