Grilled Potatoes in Foil, or Potato Packets, are a simple and tasty side dish. Just chop up some potatoes, spice them up, and wrap them in foil for grilling.
They come out soft and yummy, perfect for barbecues or family dinners. I love sneaking a bite while they cook—you can’t resist that buttery goodness! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for grilling due to their starchy texture. If you prefer, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a nice substitute as they are creamier and hold up well during grilling.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when grilled. You can swap it for shallots for a milder taste or skip it altogether if you’re not an onion fan.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for flavor and moisture. You can replace it with melted butter for a richer taste or use avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative! Mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan can also be delicious alternatives. If you’re keeping it dairy-free, skip it or use a plant-based cheese.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly in Foil?
Cooking potatoes in foil packets on the grill can be super easy if you follow a few tips. The key is to slice the potatoes thinly and coat them well with oil and seasonings, which helps them cook evenly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut potatoes into slices about 1/8-inch thick to ensure fast cooking.
- Combine all ingredients in one bowl before dividing them into packets, so the flavors blend well.
- Seal the foil tightly, making sure no steam escapes to keep moisture inside.
- Check for doneness at the 30-minute mark, and adjust cooking time if needed; a fork should easily pierce the potatoes.
With these steps, you’ll have delicious grilled potatoes every time!
How to Make Grilled Potatoes in Foil (Potato Packets)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Packets:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as cheddar)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes for grilling. So, plan for a total of about 45 minutes to get your delicious grilled potato packets ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning on your grill and setting it to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). This will help ensure your potatoes cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Cut out large squares of aluminum foil, about 12×12 inches each. You’ll need enough to make packets for each serving, so consider how many packets you plan to make.
3. Mix Ingredients:
In a big bowl, toss together the sliced potatoes and onions. Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings.
4. Assemble the Packets:
Divide the potato and onion mixture evenly among the foil squares. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of each portion. This will add a yummy cheesy flavor!
5. Seal the Packets:
Fold each piece of foil securely, making sure to seal them tightly to keep the steam inside. This will help cook the potatoes nicely.
6. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, allowing the heat to steam the potatoes. You can check for doneness by carefully opening a packet and poking the potatoes with a fork.
7. Let Them Cool:
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully remove the packets from the grill using tongs. Let them cool for a minute or so before unwrapping—watch out for hot steam!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled potato packets with a dollop of sour cream on top. Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes work well for grilling due to their starchy texture, you can use red or Yukon gold potatoes too. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the type of potato, so check for tenderness as they cook.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these grilled potato packets vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices—try adding some smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy!
Can I Prepare Potato Packets Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the potato and onion mixture, assemble the foil packets, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just make sure to take them out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them on a hot grill, for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Potato Packets?
Store any leftover potato packets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the foil packets on a preheated grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy! 😉
