Let me introduce you to your new go-to side dish: Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes. These little packets are a flavor explosion, combining buttery baby potatoes, smoky spices, and two kinds of melty cheese, all roasted to perfection inside a foil pouch. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cozying up at home with your oven, this recipe brings out the best in simple ingredients and guarantees smiles all around the table. If you’re looking for a side that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and downright irresistible, Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes are about to become your weeknight and weekend favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about a short ingredient list that delivers big on flavor! Each element in Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes has a special role—bringing color, taste, or that oozy, cheesy factor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy tips for making each one shine.
- Baby potatoes (2 pounds, halved): These cook up tender inside the foil and soak up all the buttery, cheesy goodness.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps the potatoes crisp up and prevents sticking, while adding a subtle richness.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives each bite a savory punch without overpowering the other flavors.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smokiness that pairs perfectly with melted cheese.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the flavors in every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of warmth and spice to the potatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): The star of the show—melty, bold, and totally crave-worthy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a nutty, salty punch that complements the cheddar beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, cut into small pieces): Melts over the potatoes as they cook, creating a silky, indulgent finish.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A sprinkle of green at the end brightens up the whole dish.
- Sour cream (for serving, optional): Cool, creamy, and a perfect contrast to all that melty cheese.
How to Make Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Grill or Oven
Start by heating your grill to medium-high or preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and get that perfect tender texture inside their foil packets. The beauty of Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes is their adaptability—grill for smoky notes or bake for a fuss-free indoor treat!
Step 2: Toss the Potatoes with Flavor
In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until every potato piece is evenly coated in that gorgeous, flavorful mixture. This step sets the foundation for every cheesy, savory bite to come.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets
Divide the seasoned potatoes into four generous portions and scoop each onto a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Top each pile with a hearty handful of shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a few dots of butter. These layers melt together in the heat, bathing the potatoes in cheesy, buttery bliss.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Fold each foil sheet over the potatoes, crimping the edges tightly to create a sealed packet. Making sure they’re well-sealed is key—it traps all the steam, ensuring your Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes come out perfectly tender and never dry.
Step 5: Cook Until Perfect
Place the packets directly on grill grates or on a baking sheet in the oven. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Unwrap and Garnish
Carefully open each packet—watch out for that delicious, cheesy steam! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream if you like, and dig into your Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes while they’re melty and irresistible.
How to Serve Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes
Garnishes
A little garnish can make your Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes look and taste extra special. Fresh chopped parsley adds color and a hint of herby brightness. For an indulgent touch, try a drizzle of sour cream or even a sprinkle of chives. If you’re feeling adventurous, crispy bacon bits or a dusting of smoked paprika on top are always crowd-pleasers.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are the ultimate chameleons—they pair beautifully with just about anything! Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or burgers at your next cookout, or let them shine next to a big, fresh salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal. Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes also make a delicious partner for roasted veggies or barbecue favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun, serve the foil packets straight on the plate and let everyone open their own—it’s like unwrapping a cheesy, savory present! Or, transfer the potatoes to a big serving platter, sprinkle with extra cheese and parsley, and watch them disappear at your next potluck or picnic. Mini foil packs are perfect for parties, letting guests customize their own toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes (lucky you!), let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making leftovers a real treat for lunch or a quick snack.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cooked potatoes cool, then wrap packets tightly in fresh foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture may soften slightly upon thawing, but the cheesy flavor will still be spot on!
Reheating
To reheat, place the packet or potatoes on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too—just cover loosely to retain moisture. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese and parsley to revive that just-made magic.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are perfect for their size and creamy texture, you can use Yukon Golds or red potatoes cut into small chunks. Just aim for even-sized pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
Can I bake Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the foil packets a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill or bake. This makes them a perfect make-ahead side for parties or busy weeknights.
What are the best cheese substitutes for this recipe?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack all work beautifully in Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes. Feel free to mix up the cheeses for fun flavor twists!
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the foil?
A good drizzle of olive oil and a well-sealed foil packet are your best friends here. You can also use nonstick foil or add a light spray of cooking oil to the foil before adding the potatoes.
Can I make Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes on a campfire?
Definitely! Place the sealed foil packets over hot coals (not direct flames) and cook, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. It’s a campfire classic that always gets rave reviews.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try these Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes—they’re everything you want in a comforting, crowd-pleasing side. Whether you’re grilling with friends or just want something extra special for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give them a go and watch them disappear!
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Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes are a simple and flavorful side dish featuring tender baby potatoes seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, smothered in melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese, and butter, all cooked to perfection in foil packets on the grill or in the oven. This recipe is great for easy prep, minimal cleanup, and deliciously cheesy results every time.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Garnish and Serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Assemble Foil Packets: Divide the seasoned potatoes evenly among 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Top each portion with shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and a few small pieces of unsalted butter.
- Seal Packets: Fold the aluminum foil over the potatoes to create sealed packets. Make sure the packets are tightly closed so steam can cook the potatoes evenly inside.
- Cook Potatoes: Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates or on a baking sheet in the preheated oven. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the packets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even tenderness. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully open the foil packets to avoid steam burns. Garnish the hot cheesy potatoes with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with sour cream on the side, if desired.
Notes
- Packets can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to cook.
- For a different cheesy flavor, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar.
- Add chopped cooked bacon before sealing the packets for extra savory flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
