Grilled potatoes in foil are a fun and tasty side dish. Just slice up some potatoes, add your favorite spices, and wrap them tightly in foil before grilling. It’s that simple!
These little potato packets get super tender and flavorful. I like to toss in some herbs for extra yumminess, and they make grilling easy. No messy pans to clean up—win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I love using medium-sized Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture. However, you can swap these out for russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier inside.
Onion: A regular yellow onion or even a sweet onion works well here. If onions aren’t your favorite, consider using shallots or omitting them entirely for a simpler flavor.
Olive Oil: This gives a nice richness. You can substitute avocado oil for a similar flavor, or use melted butter for a different taste. For a lighter option, a bit of vegetable broth can work too.
Garlic Powder: It’s a convenient way to add flavor, but fresh garlic is a great substitute! Just mince a clove or two and toss it in with the potatoes. Adjust according to your taste.
Paprika: I recommend smoked paprika for a hint of flavor, but sweet paprika is just fine too. If you want some heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper instead!
How Can You Seal Foil Packets to Ensure Perfect Cooking?
Sealing your foil packets properly is crucial for locking in steam and flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with large squares of foil, about 12 inches wide. This gives you enough room to fold.
- Once you place the potato mixture in the center, fold the edges of the foil over the potatoes, pinching tightly to seal. Make sure there’s some space at the top for steam to circulate.
- Double-fold the edges if you’re worried about leaks. This adds extra security while cooking.
After grilling, let the packets sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the steam to continue cooking the potatoes gently. Just be cautious when opening; the steam can be hot!
How to Make Grilled Potatoes In Foil (Potato Packets)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Packets:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 30 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’ll need about 40 minutes to make these delicious grilled potato packets!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is around 350°F to 400°F. This step is important to ensure that your potatoes cook evenly.
2. Cut the Foil:
Next, cut four large squares of aluminum foil. Make sure each square is big enough to hold the potato and onion mixture without spilling when you seal the packet.
3. Mix the Potatoes and Onions:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes and onions together with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well so that all the pieces get nicely coated in the tasty seasoning.
4. Assemble the Packets:
Divide the potato and onion mixture evenly among the aluminum foil squares. Take care to ensure each packet contains some potatoes and onion. Then, fold the foil around the mixture to create tightly sealed packets. Leave a little extra space inside for the steam to circulate—this helps cook the potatoes perfectly!
5. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets directly on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, carefully open one packet (watch out for steam!) and see if the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re cooked, remove the packets from the grill and let them sit for a few minutes before opening. Carefully open each packet, and serve topped with chopped fresh chives. If you like, add a dollop of sour cream on top to make it extra tasty!
Enjoy your delicious grilled potatoes in foil!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in the Foil Packets?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to your potato mixture. Just slice them thinly to ensure they cook at the same rate as the potatoes. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re using harder vegetables to make sure everything is tender when served.
How to Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
To prep in advance, you can slice the potatoes and onions, then toss them with the oil and seasonings up to 24 hours before grilling. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This way, you’ll only need to assemble the packets and grill when you’re ready!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover grilled potatoes, let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them covered in the microwave or in a hot skillet on the stove. Adding a splash of olive oil while reheating can help restore some moisture.
Can I Cook These Potatoes in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the foil packets on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until the potatoes are tender. This method is great if you don’t have access to a grill!
