Grilled potatoes in foil, or potato packets, are a simple and tasty side dish! Just chop up some potatoes, season them with herbs and spices, toss in some butter, and wrap them in foil.
These little packets are perfect for grilling! I love how they come out soft and flavorful, plus cleanup is a breeze. Just toss the foil away, and you’re done! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sweet potatoes can work well too, giving a different taste, but delicious nonetheless.
Onion: The onion adds a nice sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan of onions, feel free to skip it, or try shallots for a milder flavor. Chopped scallions can be a great substitute too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps in cooking and adding flavor. You could substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil if needed. Butter could also be a tasty alternative for extra richness.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix it up with mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a unique twist. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Garnish: Chives or parsley give a fresh finish. If you don’t have these, green onions or even a sprinkle of paprika can provide some color and flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the potatoes just right in this recipe is all about cooking time and packaging. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly tender potatoes:
- Make sure potatoes are sliced thinly, about 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices cook faster and evenly.
- Sealing the foil packets well is key to trapping heat and steam, which helps cook the potatoes. Double-check the edges to ensure they’re tightly closed.
- When grilling, turn the packets halfway through to avoid uneven cooking and check for doneness by carefully opening a packet to pierce a potato with a fork.
Give them a few minutes to rest after grilling; this helps the flavors blend and cools down the steam!
How to Make Grilled Potatoes in Foil (Potato Packets)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Packets:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice, optional)
For Serving:
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook on the grill. Just about 40 minutes from start to finish, and you’ll have delicious grilled potatoes to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Foil:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While it’s heating up, get ready with 4 large pieces of aluminum foil, each about 12×12 inches in size. This is where you’ll make the potato packets.
2. Mix the Potato Filling:
In a big bowl, toss together the thinly sliced potatoes, onion (if you’re using it), olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the potato slices are nicely coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Create the Foil Packets:
Divide the potato mixture evenly among the foil pieces. If you want to add some cheese, sprinkle it on top of the potatoes in each packet. Now, fold each piece of foil tightly to create packets. Make sure they are sealed well to keep all the delicious flavors inside and to avoid any leaks.
4. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets carefully on the grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are tender. You can check by carefully opening one packet (watch out for the hot steam) and piercing a potato with a fork!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the packets are done, take them off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully open them (again, be careful of steam!). Serve your grilled potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes work great, you can also use red potatoes or any waxy variety. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and type of potato you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each option will impart a slightly different flavor, so choose what you prefer or what you have available in your pantry!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover potato packets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the foil and place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, then heat until warmed through. You can also reheat them on the grill for a crispy texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Packets?
Yes, you can definitely jazz up your potato packets with other vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can add great flavor. Just slice them thinly, similar to the potatoes, and mix them in with the seasonings before sealing the packets.
