If you are looking for a side dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and a burst of cheesy goodness, the Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightfully easy-to-make recipe turns humble baby potatoes into a savory, melty masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to weekend grill parties. The potatoes get tender and absorb the garlic, onion, and buttery flavors before being generously topped with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, making every bite irresistibly creamy and satisfying. Once you try this dish, it will quickly become one of your favorite ways to elevate potatoes with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and visual appeal that makes this recipe truly shine.
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, quartered: Using baby potatoes ensures even cooking and a tender bite; quartering or thinly slicing helps soak up all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: Adds richness and helps the seasonings cling to the potatoes while fostering a perfect roast.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory note that enhances the potatoes without overpowering them.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out the natural potato taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle hint of heat and spice for complexity.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a melty, sharp creaminess that’s the star of the dish.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the rich flavors.
- Nonstick cooking spray or additional oil: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze when lining the foil.
How to Make Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes and Seasonings
Start by washing your baby potatoes and cutting them into quarters for quick, even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter so they’re well coated. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then mix to evenly distribute those flavor-packed spices. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and the oil helps everything stick perfectly.
Step 2: Assemble Foil Packets
Lay out four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lightly coat them with nonstick spray or a bit of oil to keep the potatoes from sticking. Divide the seasoned potatoes evenly among the sheets, then fold the foil to create tightly sealed packets. This technique traps steam and cooks the potatoes evenly while locking in moisture and flavor, making it perfect for grill or oven cooking.
Step 3: Cook Until Tender
Place the foil packets on a preheated grill set to medium heat or on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven. Cook them for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through so they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender, bursting with the seasoning you added earlier.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Finish Cooking
Carefully open each foil packet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the hot potatoes. Loosely reseal the foil to let the cheese melt perfectly without burning. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly, creating that irresistible gooey texture that makes this Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe such a crowd-pleaser.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, if you like. This final touch brings a lovely contrast to the warm cheese and herbs, rounding out the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice for adding a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness. You can also try garnishing with chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits for added texture and smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
This cheesy delight pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or sausages, making it a versatile companion for your outdoor cookouts. It also shines alongside fresh salads or steamed veggies for a lighter, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cheesy foil pack potatoes directly in the foil for a rustic, casual vibe perfect for camping or picnics. Or transfer the contents onto a serving platter and top with extra cheese and fresh herbs for a more elegant presentation that’ll impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The potatoes will retain their flavor and texture but are best reheated gently to preserve the cheesiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked potatoes without the cheese for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add fresh cheese, and reheat as directed to keep that fresh, melty goodness intact.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the potatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain their best texture.
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just slice larger potatoes thinly to ensure they cook through evenly and absorb all the delicious seasonings and cheese.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply swap the cheddar and Parmesan for your favorite plant-based cheeses and use olive oil instead of butter to keep it vegan-friendly.
Can I add other veggies to the foil packs?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini would be fantastic additions that cook well alongside the potatoes and boost flavor and nutrition.
What’s the best way to avoid foil sticking?
Using nonstick cooking spray or brushing foil sheets with a bit of oil before adding the potatoes is an easy way to prevent sticking and keep your packets intact.
Can I prepare these foil packs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the packets ahead, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours, then cook fresh when you’re ready to enjoy. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results.
Final Thoughts
If you love dishes that combine convenience with mouthwatering flavor, this Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe really is a winner to keep in your back pocket. It’s fuss-free, flexible, and packed with the kind of melty, comforting cheese that turns simple potatoes into a memorable side every single time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become a shining star at your next meal!
Print
Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes are an easy and delicious side dish perfect for grilling or baking. Tender baby potatoes are seasoned with garlic and onion powders, tossed in olive oil or butter, then cooked in foil packets until soft. Melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese add a rich, savory finish, complemented by fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This versatile recipe is ideal for camping, backyard barbecues, or simple weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, quartered (or thinly sliced if using larger potatoes)
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses & Garnish
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray or additional oil for foil
Instructions
- Prepare the grill or oven: Preheat your grill to medium heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an evenly heated cooking environment for the foil packets.
- Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the quartered baby potatoes with olive oil or melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Prepare foil packets: Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lightly coat each sheet with nonstick cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Divide the seasoned potatoes evenly among the foil sheets and fold them tightly into sealed packets to lock in steam and flavor.
- Cook the potatoes: Place the foil packets on the grill grates or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the packets over once halfway through cooking, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add cheese: Carefully open each foil packet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the hot potatoes. Reseal the foil loosely to allow the cheese to melt without overcooking the potatoes.
- Finish cooking: Return the foil packets to the grill or oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted deliciously over the potatoes.
- Serve: Remove the packets from heat and open cautiously to avoid steam burns. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, if desired, and serve the cheesy foil pack potatoes hot as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Add chopped cooked bacon, green onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture variations.
- This recipe is ideal for camping, grilling, or as a convenient oven-side dish on busy days.
- If you want to avoid direct contact of food with aluminum foil, place parchment paper inside the foil packets before adding the potatoes.
