Grilled Potato Packets

There’s simply no denying the magic of perfectly grilled potatoes, especially when they’re cooked to tender perfection in a convenient foil pack. These grilled red potatoes in foil have consistently rescued countless summer cookouts, transforming ordinary meals into memorable feasts. During the warmer months, baby red potatoes are a constant presence in my kitchen, and for good reason—they are, without a doubt, the most universally loved and effortlessly prepared side dish for the grill. The foil pack method isn’t just easy; it’s practically foolproof, ensuring delicious results every single time.

Imagine a vibrant side dish that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. That’s exactly what you get with these incredible foil pack grilled potatoes. They are an incredibly simple addition to any barbecue spread, complementing a wide array of main courses. To create this irresistible side, all you need to do is toss fresh red potatoes in a generous coating of olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then seal them into a secure foil packet, ready for the grill.

The Best Ever Grilled Potatoes in Foil: A Summer BBQ Essential

As grilling season kicks into full swing, finding go-to recipes that are both simple and outstanding is a must. This recipe for grilled red potatoes in foil consistently receives stellar reviews, earning its place as a cherished summer staple for families everywhere. What makes them so exceptional? It’s the perfect combination of convenience, speed, and irresistible texture. These amazing grilled potatoes require only about 10 minutes of active preparation and a mere 20 minutes on the grill, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Our chosen method is the renowned foil pack technique, a culinary hack that guarantees tender interiors and delightful crisp edges without the fuss. The process is straightforward: you arrange all your ingredients—potatoes, olive oil, and spices—onto a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil, seal it securely with another piece, and then simply place it on your preheated grill. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes cleanup incredibly easy, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and company. The magic of the foil pack lies in its ability to create a steamy environment, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly and become wonderfully fork-tender, while the direct heat from the grill gives them that desirable slightly crispy, charred exterior.

How long to grill potatoes in foil? To get straight to the point and ensure flawless results, you’ll grill your red potatoes in their foil pack over direct heat at a consistent 400ºF for approximately 15-20 minutes. This precise timing ensures they are cooked through yet retain their fantastic texture.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grill Potatoes in Foil Like a Pro

Mastering grilled potatoes in foil is incredibly straightforward, even for novice grillers. Follow these simple steps to achieve consistently delicious results that will impress everyone at your next barbecue.

Step 1: Preparing Your Potatoes

Begin by thoroughly washing 1 pound of fresh red potatoes under cool running water. Pat them dry completely to ensure the olive oil and spices adhere properly. Next, quarter them by simply cutting each potato in half, then cutting each half in half again. The goal is to achieve pieces that are roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in length. Uniformity in size is key here, as it ensures all your potato pieces cook evenly and simultaneously, preventing some from being undercooked while others are perfectly tender.

We specifically favor red potatoes for this recipe due to their delicate, thin skin which doesn’t require peeling and their naturally creamy, bite-sized texture when cooked. Their waxy consistency holds up beautifully to grilling, staying firm yet tender. For an extra layer of savory flavor, we also incorporate a small yellow onion, finely diced, which caramelizes slightly within the foil pack, adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the potatoes.

What Other Potato Varieties Work Well for Grilling?

Don’t have red potatoes readily available? Not to worry! This versatile recipe can be adapted to various potato types. We’ve experimented with several alternatives, all yielding fantastic results. Here are a few excellent options you can use:

• Russet potatoes: Known for their fluffy interior, perfect for absorbing flavors.
• Idaho potatoes: Similar to Russets, offering a classic potato taste and texture.
• Fingerling potatoes: Their slender shape and rich flavor make them an elegant choice, often requiring less cutting.
• Sweet potatoes: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, sweet potatoes offer a delightful twist.
• Yams: Similar to sweet potatoes but with a slightly different flavor profile and texture, also a great option.

Step 2: Seasoning Your Potatoes to Perfection

Achieving a thorough and even coating of olive oil and spices is crucial for maximizing flavor. Our preferred method for seasoning is to place the prepped potatoes and diced onion into a large, gallon-sized plastic bag. This ingenious technique allows you to seal the bag and gently shake the contents, ensuring every single piece of potato is beautifully coated without any mess. If you prefer not to use a plastic bag, a large mixing bowl with a lid or even just stirring vigorously with a spoon will work just as well.

For these incredibly flavorful grilled potatoes, we’ve kept our spice blend wonderfully simple, yet highly effective. The chosen seasonings are designed to enhance the natural earthiness of the potatoes while adding layers of savory deliciousness:

• Onion powder: Adds a concentrated, savory onion flavor without the texture.
• Garlic powder: A foundational spice that provides a warm, aromatic depth.
• Italian seasoning: A versatile blend, typically including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, offering a herbaceous bouquet.
• Salt and pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that bring all the other spices to life.

Spice Tip: Feel free to customize the spice blend to match your personal preference or the cuisine of your main dish! While I find the combination of garlic, salt, pepper, basil, and parsley to be truly exceptional, you could easily explore options like smoked paprika for a smoky kick, cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or even a pre-made Cajun blend for a different flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Step 3: Crafting the Perfect Foil Pack

Once your potatoes are glistening with olive oil and perfectly coated in their aromatic spices, it’s time to construct your crucial foil pack. This step is key to ensuring even cooking and trapping all those delicious flavors. Don’t worry if it feels a little tricky at first; with a bit of practice, you’ll master the foil pack fold in no time – I promise it gets easier!

1. Start by laying out a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil on your counter. If you only have regular foil, simply use two sheets layered together to provide extra strength and prevent tearing or leaks, which can lead to dry potatoes and a messy grill.
2. Carefully transfer the seasoned potatoes, along with all the olive oil and spices from the bag or bowl, onto the center of the foil sheet. Spread them out into a relatively even layer to promote consistent cooking.
3. Place a second piece of heavy-duty foil directly on top of the potatoes. Now, work your way around the edges, carefully folding and crimping all four sides together. The goal is to create a tight, secure seal that completely encloses the potatoes, forming a neat packet. This seal is vital for trapping steam and ensuring the potatoes cook through beautifully.
4. Finally, and this is a step some grillers debate but we find effective, use a fork to gently poke a few small holes on the very top of your foil pack. These tiny vents allow a minimal amount of steam to escape, preventing the packet from puffing up excessively and potentially bursting, while still retaining enough moisture for tender potatoes. It also aids in achieving a slightly crispier exterior.

Step 4: Grilling Your Potatoes at 400ºF

Now for the exciting part – grilling! Preheat your grill to a consistent temperature of approximately 400ºF (200ºC). Once the grill is hot, carefully place your foil pack of seasoned red potatoes directly over the flames, on the hottest part of your grill. Close the grill lid to trap the heat and allow the magic to happen. Grill for about 15-20 minutes. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your grill’s heat distribution and the size of your potato pieces. To check for doneness, carefully open one corner of the foil pack (watch out for steam!) and try to pierce a potato piece with a fork. If it slides in easily and the potato is tender throughout, they are ready. If there’s still resistance, reseal the pack and continue grilling for a few more minutes, checking again.

Do I Need to Boil Potatoes Before Grilling Them in Foil?

A common question when grilling potatoes is whether pre-boiling is necessary to ensure they cook through. The simple answer for this foil pack method is no, you do not need to boil your potatoes before grilling. The clever design of the foil pack creates its own mini-steam oven right on the grill. This trapped steam efficiently cooks the potatoes quickly and evenly from the inside out, while the direct heat from the grill provides a lovely outer crispness and smoky flavor. This eliminates an extra step, saving you time and effort.

Grilling with Limited Direct Heat Space: A Smart Solution

It’s a familiar scenario: your grill is packed with sizzling steaks, burgers, or chicken, and there’s no room left over the direct flames for your foil-packed potatoes. Don’t despair! You can still achieve fantastic results with a slight adjustment to the cooking method. Simply sear your grilled red potatoes in foil over direct heat for an initial 5 minutes. This quick sear helps to kickstart the cooking process and build some initial flavor. Afterward, move the foil pack to the upper rack or a cooler, indirect heat zone of your grill to continue cooking while your other food finishes. You will likely need to grill your potatoes for a longer duration compared to continuous direct heat, perhaps an additional 5-10 minutes, but this method works exceptionally well, ensuring all your dishes are ready around the same time.

Can This Foil Pack Potato Recipe Be Made in the Oven?

Absolutely! This versatile recipe is just as delicious when prepared indoors. If grilling isn’t an option, or if you prefer the convenience of your oven, you can easily make these foil pack potatoes in the oven. Simply follow all the directions for seasoning the potatoes and creating the foil pack as outlined above. Once assembled, place the foil pack directly on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips, though unlikely with a well-sealed pack) and bake it in a preheated oven at 400ºF (200ºC) for 20-30 minutes. Begin checking the tenderness of the potatoes after 20 minutes by carefully opening the packet and piercing them with a fork. Continue baking until they are perfectly fork-tender. While the oven won’t impart the same smoky flavor or distinct grill marks, you’ll still achieve wonderfully tender and flavorful potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Grilled Potatoes

If you happen to have any leftover grilled red potatoes (a rare occurrence, perhaps!), storing and reheating them is simple. Allow the potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you have a few options: you can gently warm them in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat with a touch of olive oil until heated through and slightly crispy, or spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. For a quick reheat, the microwave works, but the potatoes might lose some of their crispness.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Grilled Potatoes

A stellar grilled potatoes recipe truly shines when accompanied by equally delicious grilled main courses. These foil pack red potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide variety of proteins and other sides. Here are some of our top recommendations to create a complete and unforgettable grilled meal:

Juicy Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Our acclaimed grilled pork tenderloin recipe features a savory dry rub, a sweet BBQ soy marinade, and is grilled to absolute juicy perfection. It’s a simple yet incredibly tender and flavorful dish that complements the rustic appeal of grilled potatoes.

Best Ever Turkey Burgers: Prepare to meet the most succulent and flavorful turkey burgers you’ve ever tasted! These turkey burgers are guaranteed to be delicious and never dry, making them a healthy and hearty companion to your grilled potato side.

Fresh Lemon Dill Salmon Burgers: For a lighter, seafood-inspired option, these lemon dill salmon burgers are savory, incredibly delicious, and packed with healthy protein and beneficial omega-3s. A fantastic contrast to the hearty potatoes.

Tender Grilled Flank Steak: Make grilled flank steak a centerpiece of your summer menu! This versatile cut can be served as a stand-alone protein, sliced for delicious tacos, or incorporated into sizzling fajitas, all of which would be perfectly rounded out by a side of our foil-packed potatoes.

Beyond these specific recipes, consider garnishing your grilled potatoes with fresh chopped chives, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor profile, allowing you to customize this incredible side dish to your exact liking.

4.60 from 15 votes

Best Ever Grilled Potatoes in Foil (Grilled Red Potatoes)

Get perfectly cooked potatoes every time with this grilled potatoes in foil method. They’re made with grilled red potatoes, olive oil, and your favorite spices.

By: Lee Funke

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 20 mins

Total: 30 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb. red potatoes, quartered
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning*
• salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. First, preheat your grill to 400ºF (200ºC) for direct heat.
2. Next, prepare the red potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and pat them dry. Then, cut each potato in half, and then in half again to quarter them, aiming for uniform 1 to 1.5-inch pieces.
3. Finely dice the small yellow onion. Place all the prepared potatoes and diced onion into a large plastic gallon-sized bag (or a large mixing bowl).
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, then add all the spices. Seal the bag (or cover the bowl) and shake vigorously until the vegetables are completely and evenly coated in the olive oil and spice mixture.
5. Transfer the seasoned vegetables onto a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place another equally sized piece of foil on top. Carefully fold and crimp all four sides together to create a tightly sealed foil pack. Finally, use a fork to poke a few small holes on the top of your foil pack to allow some steam to escape and encourage crisping.
6. Place the sealed foil pack directly onto your preheated grill over direct heat. Close the grill lid and let the potatoes cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork and have reached your desired tender consistency. Carefully open the pack to check for doneness.

Tips & Notes

• Italian seasoning: As an alternative, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for a similar herbaceous profile.
• Foil Quality: Always use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent the oil from leaking into the grill and to ensure the pack remains intact. If you only have regular foil, simply use two pieces layered together for added durability.
• This recipe was slightly altered on April 11, 2019, for improved clarity and taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 138 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 17 g,
Protein: 2 g,
Fat: 11 g,
Fiber: 2 g,
Sugar: 2 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.