Irresistible Grilled Potatoes in Foil: Your Ultimate Easy Side Dish for Any Occasion
There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of the grill and the aroma of delicious food cooking outdoors, especially when the weather turns warm. While classic hamburgers are a backyard barbecue staple, the grill offers so much more culinary potential, particularly for effortless side dishes. Forget complicated preparations and excessive cleanup; these grilled potatoes in foil are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Imagine tender, seasoned potatoes packed with savory bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, all cooked to perfection in individual foil packets. It’s an incredibly simple yet supremely satisfying dish that promises minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making cleanup an absolute breeze!
These foil potato packs aren’t just easy; they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue for a summer cookout, seeking a comforting oven-baked side in cooler months, or even cooking over a crackling campfire, this recipe adapts beautifully. The individual packets ensure each serving is perfectly cooked and infused with flavor. The combination of fluffy potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and zesty green onions creates a harmony of tastes and textures that everyone will adore. Serve them hot straight from the grill, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of vibrant salsa, or a sprinkle of extra cheese, and watch them disappear!
One of the true beauties of preparing potatoes in foil is the sheer convenience. Not only does it make for virtually no dishes to wash afterwards, but it also allows for excellent portion control and ensures every potato is steamed to tenderness within its own flavor cocoon. This method locks in moisture and infuses the potatoes with all the delicious additions, making them incredibly moist and flavorful. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, large gatherings, or even a fun camping trip, providing a hearty and delicious side that complements almost any main course.
Gather Your Simple Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
You’ll be amazed at how a few basic ingredients can create such a spectacular dish. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements!
- Potatoes: For this recipe, I highly recommend using Russet potatoes due to their fluffy texture when cooked, which perfectly absorbs all the delicious flavors. However, Yukon Golds or even red potatoes (cut into smaller pieces) also work wonderfully, offering a slightly different texture. Ensure they are peeled and diced into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Consistency in size is key to avoiding some pieces being raw while others are overcooked.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the potatoes from the inside out. Don’t be shy with the salt; potatoes need a good amount to bring out their natural flavor. Beyond basic table salt, consider using kosher salt or even a seasoned salt blend (like garlic salt or onion salt) to add an extra layer of taste.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich, gooey layer that clings to the potatoes. Sharp cheddar will provide a more pronounced flavor, while mild cheddar offers a creamy, less intense cheesy note. Feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
- Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds an incredible smoky, salty, and savory crunch. It’s best to cook and crumble your bacon beforehand to ensure it’s perfectly crisp and integrated into the packs. You can pan-fry, bake, or even microwave your bacon until it reaches your desired crispiness.
- Butter: A few pats of butter nestled within the foil pack melt over the potatoes, adding richness and helping them achieve that perfect tenderness and delicious, slightly golden exterior (especially when cooked on the grill or campfire). It also helps carry the flavors of the seasonings throughout the dish.
- Green Onions: These are primarily for garnish, adding a fresh, slightly pungent, and vibrant touch that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon. They provide a pop of color and a delightful oniony flavor without being overpowering. Chives or finely chopped fresh parsley could also be used for a similar fresh finish.
Remember, this recipe is more of a versatile method than a rigid set of rules. Feel empowered to customize it with your favorite seasonings and mix-ins. The beauty of foil packet cooking is its adaptability!
Crafting Your Perfect Potato Packs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these grilled potato packets is incredibly straightforward, perfect for even novice grill masters. The key is in the preparation and ensuring your packets are sealed well to lock in all that delicious steam and flavor.
- Prepare Your Foil & Potatoes: Begin by laying out four generously sized pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a clean counter. Each piece should be large enough to fully enclose a portion of potatoes with room to spare for sealing. Lightly spray the center of each foil piece with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly divide your diced potatoes (approximately one medium potato per pack) among the four foil sections. Spread them out slightly to form an even layer. Sprinkle the potatoes generously with salt, then use your hands or a spoon to gently toss and mix them, ensuring every potato piece is coated for optimal seasoning.
- Add Your Flavorful Fillings: Now for the good stuff! Distribute the shredded cheddar cheese equally over the top of the potatoes in each pack. Follow with the crumbled, cooked bacon, spreading it evenly. This layering ensures that as the cheese melts, it will envelop the potatoes and bacon, creating a cohesive and flavorful bite.
- Seal the Deal: Place a small pat of butter on top of the cheese and bacon in each packet. This butter will melt down, adding richness and moisture. To seal the packets, bring the two longer sides of the foil together over the potatoes. Fold them down tightly, creating a sturdy seam. Then, roll up the short ends of the foil tightly towards the center, ensuring there are no gaps. The goal is to create a secure, airtight packet that will trap the steam and cook the potatoes perfectly, preventing any leakage.
- Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Once hot, carefully place the sealed foil packets directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for approximately 30-35 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary based on your grill’s temperature, the size of your potato dice, and the thickness of your foil. To check for doneness, carefully remove one packet (using tongs or grill mitts) and open it up. Pierce a potato piece with a fork; it should be easily tender. If not, reseal and return to the grill for another 5-10 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the packets from the grill. Place them on a serving platter or individual plates. Carefully open each foil pack, as a burst of hot steam will escape. Sprinkle fresh, thinly sliced green onions over the top of each serving. These grilled potato packs are best served immediately while hot and cheesy.
Flexible Cooking Methods: Grill, Oven, or Campfire
One of the many advantages of this foil-pack potato recipe is its incredible adaptability to various cooking environments. Whether you’re at home or out in nature, you can achieve delicious results.
On the Grill
Grilling is arguably the best method for these potato packs, imparting a subtle smoky flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Preheat your grill to a consistent medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). Place the sealed foil packets directly onto the hot grates. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, flipping them once halfway through to ensure even cooking and to prevent any scorching on one side. The cooking time will vary depending on how finely you’ve diced your potatoes; smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger chunks will require more time. Always check for tenderness by piercing a potato with a fork before serving.
In the Oven
No grill? No problem! These delightful potato packs can be easily made indoors, making them a fantastic year-round side dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the individual foil packets on a sturdy baking sheet. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are thoroughly tender when pierced. The baking sheet helps support the packets and catches any potential drips, though a well-sealed packet should contain everything. This method is fantastic for meal prepping or when the weather isn’t cooperating for outdoor grilling.
Over a Campfire
For the adventurous cook, these foil-wrapped potatoes are a camping trip essential! Prepare your packs ahead of time at home for ultimate convenience, or assemble them right at the campsite. Once your campfire has burned down to a good bed of hot coals (avoiding direct flames), carefully place the potato packets among the coals. Cook for approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on the heat intensity of your coals. It’s crucial to rotate the packets every 10-15 minutes using tongs to ensure even cooking and prevent them from burning. Be extremely cautious not to place them directly into roaring flames, as this will char the foil and burn the contents. The goal is gentle, consistent heat from the embers. These campfire potatoes are rustic, delicious, and an integral part of any outdoor feast.
Unlock Endless Possibilities: Recipe Tips & Creative Variations
The beauty of grilled potatoes in foil is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own!
- Enhance with Veggies: Elevate your potato packs by adding an assortment of colorful and nutritious vegetables. Thinly sliced bell peppers (any color), sliced mushrooms, or finely diced onions are fantastic choices that cook down beautifully alongside the potatoes. For tougher vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, consider pre-cooking them slightly or dicing them into very small pieces to ensure they become tender within the same cooking time. Broccoli florets or corn kernels can also be tossed in for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice Up Your Seasonings: While salt is fundamental, a world of flavor awaits beyond it. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, or a pinch of cayenne for a kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, finely chopped and mixed with the potatoes, add an aromatic depth that is truly delicious. For a zesty twist, a packet of ranch dressing seasoning mix tossed with the potatoes before cooking provides a creamy, herby flavor. Alternatively, omit the cheese and bacon entirely for a lighter, herb-infused grilled potato side.
- Incorporate More Protein: Transform these side dishes into a hearty main course by adding more cooked protein. Beyond the bacon, pre-cooked ground beef, savory taco meat, or crumbled sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage) are excellent additions. For a lighter protein, consider thinly sliced chicken tenderloins or shrimp, which cook quickly in the foil. Just ensure any raw meat is cut small and evenly distributed to cook through properly.
- Load Up on Toppings: The fun doesn’t stop once the packets come off the grill! Offer a “toppings bar” to let everyone customize their potatoes. Classic options like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a fresh salsa add creaminess and tang. For a spicy kick, include sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes. More cheese, chives, or even a dollop of guacamole can take these potatoes to the next level.
- Perfect for Camping & Outdoor Adventures: These foil packs are virtually tailor-made for camping. Their self-contained nature means no extra dishes and easy transport. You can prep all the ingredients at home, assemble the packs, and store them in a cooler, ready to be tossed onto the campfire coals. Adding more robust proteins like sausage or pre-cooked chicken can make them a complete, satisfying meal after a long day of outdoor activities.
Complement Your Meal with More Delicious Sides
Looking for other fantastic side dishes to complete your barbecue or family dinner? Here are some of our other favorites that pair wonderfully with these grilled potatoes:
- Grilled Zucchini: A light and fresh vegetable option, perfect for grilling alongside potatoes.
- BLT Pasta Salad: A creamy, crunchy, and savory pasta salad that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Classic Potato Salad: For those who love traditional potato dishes, this recipe never disappoints.
- Instant Pot Corn on the Cob: Quick, easy, and deliciously sweet corn in minutes.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad that adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
Grilled Potato Packs
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Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
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Preheat grill to about 400º F.
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Place 4 large pieces of foil on the counter. Spray each one with cooking spray.
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Divide the potatoes evenly among each foil pack. Sprinkle salt evenly over the potatoes, mixing them around a little bit to coat.4 medium potatoes, 1 teaspoon salt
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Sprinkle evenly with cheese and bacon.1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 strips of bacon
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Top each with a pat of butter and fold each packet closed.2 Tablespoons butter
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Place each packet on a hot grill and cook for about 30 minute until the potatoes are tender.
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Remove from heat.
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Carefully open the potato packs and top each one with green onions.2 green onions
Notes
Bake In Oven – 375º for 40 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Over A Campfire – cook for about 30 minutes, avoiding the directly flames from the fire.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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