Grilled potatoes in foil are super easy and tasty! You simply wrap diced potatoes with butter and spices, then grill them to crispy perfection.
These little potato packets are a hit at cookouts! I love how they get all fluffy inside and smoky on the outside. Try them next to your favorite grilled meats! 🥔🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use any type you like, but Russets or Yukon Golds work best because they’re creamy and hold up well on the grill. If you have red potatoes on hand, they’ll be great too!
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but if you’re not a big fan, you can skip it or use shallots for a milder taste.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its rich flavor, but you can substitute canola oil or melted butter if you prefer something different. Just remember, the type of oil can change the taste a bit.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika are the stars here. If you want an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or switch to Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess but is totally optional. If you want to avoid dairy, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk!
How Do You Ensure Your Potato Packets Cook Evenly?
A common challenge is getting the potatoes tender without burning the edges of the foil packets. Here are some tips to cook them perfectly:
- Slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Drizzle enough olive oil to coat everything, which helps distribute the heat and flavor.
- Seal the foil tightly but leave some space inside for steam to circulate. This helps the potatoes cook evenly.
- Don’t forget to flip the packets halfway through cooking for even browning. Just be careful of the hot steam.
How to Make Grilled Potatoes in Foil (Potato Packets)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Packets:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes of cooking time on the grill. So, in total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes. It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is about 350°F. This way, your potatoes will cook evenly and get that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Aluminum Foil:
Cut out large squares of heavy-duty aluminum foil, around 12×12 inches in size. This will be the packets that hold your potatoes and onions while they grill.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes and onions. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes and onions are evenly coated with the flavors.
4. Create the Potato Packets:
Divide the potato mixture into the center of each foil square, forming a mound. If you want to add cheese, sprinkle it on top of the potatoes. Bring the edges of the foil together and fold them to create a sealed packet. Make sure there are no holes for the steam to escape!
5. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip the packets halfway through cooking to help the potatoes cook evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After 25-30 minutes, carefully open the packets—watch out for the hot steam! Garnish your grilled potatoes with fresh chives or parsley. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if you like. Enjoy your tasty grilled potato packets!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for grilling, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type and thickness of the slices.
How Do I Adjust Cooking Time if My Grill is Hotter or Cooler?
If your grill runs hotter, keep an eye on the packets and start checking the potatoes for tenderness a few minutes early. Conversely, if it’s cooler, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. Use a fork to test for doneness; potatoes should be easily pierced.
Can I Prepare These Potato Packets in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the packets a few hours in advance! Just keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This will enhance the flavors as the potatoes and onions marinate in the olive oil and spices.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You could also briefly grill them again for that fresh-off-the-grill taste!
