Name: Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp dried rosemary; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

There's nothing quite like the sizzling aroma of Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets fresh off the grill. The combination of juicy, tender steak, perfectly roasted potatoes, and a buttery garlic herb sauce creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

I first discovered foil packet cooking during a camping trip, and I was amazed by how easy and flavorful the results were. Now, it’s one of my go-to methods for busy weeknights or backyard BBQs. Whether cooked on the grill or in the oven, these steak and potato foil packets make dinner effortless and cleanup a breeze.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Steak & Potato Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet impressive dish. It’s the perfect solution for those craving a hearty, flavorful meal without the hassle.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just chop, season, and wrap everything in foil—no complicated steps or fancy techniques required.

This recipe is also great for meal prep and portion control. Each foil packet is its own individual serving, making it ideal for families, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Not to mention, the flavor is unbeatable. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs infuses the steak and potatoes with rich, mouthwatering goodness.

Finally, clean-up is a breeze. Since everything is contained in foil, there’s no need to scrub multiple pans or worry about a messy stovetop.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Every component plays a key role in making this meal both flavorful and satisfying.

Steak: Choosing the right cut is essential. I recommend using sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak, as these cuts are tender and cook beautifully in foil. Be sure to cut the steak into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Potatoes: Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are perfect for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture when roasted. Slice them into small chunks so they cook through completely.

Garlic Butter: The star of the dish is the homemade garlic butter, made with melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. This sauce adds incredible depth of flavor and keeps the steak and potatoes juicy.

Vegetables (Optional): Adding veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can enhance both flavor and nutrition. They also absorb the delicious garlic butter as they cook.

For this recipe, you’ll also need heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.

How To Make Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets

Making these foil packets is quick and easy, with just a few simple steps to bring everything together.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the steak into bite-sized pieces, quarter the potatoes, and mince the garlic. If you’re using extra veggies, slice them into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.

Next, make the garlic butter. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture is the key to infusing your meal with rich, savory flavor.

Tear off large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil and divide the steak and potatoes evenly among them. Drizzle each portion generously with the garlic butter, tossing gently to coat everything.

Fold the foil packets securely, sealing the edges tightly to create an airtight pocket. This traps steam inside, helping the potatoes become soft and the steak stay tender.

Cook the packets on a preheated grill (medium-high heat) for 15-20 minutes, or bake them in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, carefully open a packet to check doneness—potatoes should be fork-tender, and steak cooked to your desired level.

Once done, carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!) and garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, these steak and potato foil packets store well for later enjoyment.

Refrigeration: Transfer cooled contents to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak and potatoes in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If reheating on the grill, place the foil packets back on the grill for a few minutes until warmed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile, so feel free to get creative!

Swap the protein: Not a fan of steak? Try using chicken, shrimp, or even sausage for a different twist on the dish.

Use different seasonings: Instead of garlic butter, try seasoning with steak rub, Cajun spices, or Italian herbs for a unique flavor profile.

Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella over the potatoes before sealing the foil for a cheesy upgrade.

Make it low-carb: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini to make this meal keto-friendly while still keeping it delicious.

Boost the veggies: Toss in asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for extra nutrients and texture.

With so many ways to customize this dish, you’ll never get bored of making it. Whether you’re grilling out with friends or need a quick weeknight dinner, these Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets will always hit the spot!