Grilled Potatoes in Foil Recipe: Perfect Side Dish for BBQs
I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious side dish to add to your grilling menu, grilled potatoes in foil are a great choice. This method keeps the potatoes tender and flavorful with minimal effort.
With just a few simple ingredients and some foil, you can have perfectly cooked potatoes ready to enjoy in no time. All you need are potatoes, a bit of seasoning, and some butter or oil to create a tasty dish everyone will love. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything’s contained in the foil packets.
You can customize the recipe to fit your tastes by adding onions, garlic, or fresh herbs. Just toss everything together, wrap it in foil, and throw it on the grill. Your guests will be impressed with the delicious results, and you’ll love how easy it is to make.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious grilled potatoes in foil:
Potatoes
- 4-5 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes work great)
- Substitutes: Sweet potatoes or fingerlings can be used for a different flavor and texture.
Onions
- 1 large onion, sliced
- Substitutes: Shallots or green onions can be a good alternative.
Butter or Olive Oil
- 2-3 tablespoons butter or 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Substitutes: Coconut oil or ghee can be used for different flavors.
Garlic
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- Substitutes: Garlic powder or garlic salt can be used if you don’t have fresh garlic.
Herbs
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- Substitutes: Dried herbs can work too, but use only half the amount.
Salt and Pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- No substitutes needed
Additional Ingredients (Optional)
- Bell peppers, diced
- Carrots, sliced
- Cheese, shredded for a cheesy twist
Mix these ingredients well and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Adjust the quantities based on your taste and preference. Feel free to experiment with the optional ingredients for added flavors!
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375 to 450°F.
Step 2: Chop your potatoes and onions into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the potatoes and onions with olive oil. Add your favorite spices like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until coated evenly.
Step 4: Cut a large piece of aluminum foil. Place the potato mixture in the center. Dot small pieces of butter over the potatoes.
Step 5: Fold the foil over the potatoes, bringing the short sides together first. Seal the edges to create a tight packet.
Step 6: Place the foil packet on your preheated grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes. Flip the packet halfway through.
Step 7: Remove the packet from the grill. Open it carefully, avoiding the steam. Check if the potatoes are tender with a fork. If not, re-seal and cook for a few more minutes.
Step 8: Serve hot directly from the foil or transfer to a serving dish.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Grilling potatoes in foil is pretty simple, but here are some tips to make them even better.
Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work best. They have a creamy texture that holds up well on the grill.
Uniform Slices: Make sure to slice your potatoes evenly, about ¼ inch thick. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
Pre-cooking Option: You can partially cook the potatoes in the microwave for about 5 minutes before grilling. This speeds up the grilling time and ensures they’re tender.
Add-Ins: Try adding sliced onions, garlic, or fresh herbs like rosemary for extra flavor. Make sure everything is well-coated in oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Season Well: Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Paprika, garlic powder, or even a dash of cayenne can add great flavor.
Managing Heat: Preheat your grill to about 400°F. If you notice hot spots, move the foil packets around to ensure even cooking.
Storing Leftovers
Cooling Down: Let your grilled potatoes cool to room temperature before storing.
Airtight Containers: Store the potatoes in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze leftover potatoes. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They should last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.