Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sizzling aroma of garlic butter steak mingling with tender, golden potatoes fresh off the grill. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned steak and perfectly cooked potatoes wrapped in a convenient foil packet makes this meal an effortless dinner option. Whether you're camping, grilling in the backyard, or looking for a quick oven-baked meal, these foil packets deliver big on flavor with minimal cleanup.

I first discovered this recipe on a camping trip when I needed an easy, satisfying meal that wouldn’t require a pile of dishes. It quickly became a go-to favorite in my household because it’s simple, customizable, and packed with rich, buttery garlic flavor. Plus, there’s something magical about unwrapping a hot foil packet to reveal a perfectly cooked, flavor-infused meal inside.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. These garlic steak and potato foil packets are the perfect solution for busy nights, outdoor adventures, or cozy dinners at home.

First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Everything gets tossed together in a foil packet, meaning there’s no need for complicated steps or extra dishes. Just season, wrap, and cook!

They’re also versatile. You can cook them on the grill, in the oven, or even over a campfire, making them perfect for any season or occasion.

Not to mention, they’re packed with bold flavors. The combination of melted butter, fresh garlic, and a blend of herbs seeps into the steak and potatoes, ensuring every bite is mouthwateringly good.

Lastly, they’re a complete meal in one packet. You get tender, juicy steak, perfectly roasted potatoes, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce—all wrapped up and ready to enjoy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these foil packets lies in the combination of simple, fresh ingredients that bring out the best flavors in every bite.

Steak – The best cuts for this recipe are sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon since they remain juicy and tender when cooked in foil. If you prefer a budget-friendly option, flank steak or top round work well but may require marinating for extra tenderness.

Potatoes – Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and develop a creamy texture when cooked. Be sure to cut them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate as the steak.

Garlic Butter – A mix of melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary adds richness and depth of flavor. For a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead of butter, though the flavor won’t be quite as indulgent.

Seasonings – A combination of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder enhances the natural flavors of the steak and potatoes. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Foil – Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking. If you only have regular foil, double-wrap your packets for extra durability.

How To Make This Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

Creating these flavorful foil packets is incredibly simple. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Start by prepping the ingredients. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and dice the potatoes into small, uniform chunks. This ensures even cooking and prevents any undercooked potatoes.

In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak and potatoes with melted garlic butter, seasonings, and fresh herbs. Stir until everything is well coated and infused with flavor.

Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 12–14 inches long. Divide the steak and potato mixture evenly among the sheets, then fold the foil tightly to create a sealed packet. Make sure the seams are secure to lock in the moisture and flavors.

Cook the packets on a preheated grill at medium-high heat (around 400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, bake them in a 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes until the steak is cooked to your desired doneness and the potatoes are tender.

Carefully open the foil packets, being cautious of the hot steam inside. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of garlic butter for a final touch. Serve immediately and enjoy every juicy, garlicky bite!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since foil packets don’t reheat well in the foil, transfer everything to a plate before reheating.

To reheat, warm the steak and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Freezing isn’t recommended for cooked steak and potatoes, as they can become mushy once thawed. However, you can prep the uncooked packets in advance and freeze them for a quick meal prep option. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these steak and potato foil packets is how easy they are to customize! Here are a few delicious variations:

Swap the protein – If steak isn’t your preference, try using chicken, shrimp, or even salmon for a different but equally delicious take on this meal. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Change up the seasonings – Instead of garlic butter, try a barbecue spice rub, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.

Add more veggies – Throw in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size as the potatoes so they cook evenly.

Make it cheesy – After opening the foil packets, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top and let it melt for a rich, cheesy finish.

Go low-carb – Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or sliced zucchini for a keto-friendly option that still delivers all the flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a flavor-packed meal with minimal effort!

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