Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

There's something truly satisfying about the combination of juicy steak, tender potatoes, and rich garlic butter, all wrapped up in a convenient foil packet. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for grilling, baking, or even cooking over an open campfire.

this Recipe

I first tried foil packet meals on a family camping trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite ways to cook. Not only is cleanup a breeze, but the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into what makes this Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets recipe a must-try.

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

Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These foil packets take the guesswork out of cooking and deliver a flavorful, satisfying dinner every time.

First, they’re incredibly convenient. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, baking in the oven, or cooking over a campfire, these packets make dinner a no-fuss experience. Simply assemble, seal, and cook—no need to babysit multiple pots and pans.

The flavor is unbeatable. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs seeps into the steak and potatoes as they cook, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience in every bite.

They’re also customizable. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus. Prefer a different protein? Swap out the steak for chicken or shrimp. The possibilities are endless.

Lastly, cleanup is practically nonexistent. Since everything cooks inside the foil, you can simply discard it after eating—no scrubbing pots or pans required.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a well-balanced, flavorful meal.

Steak is the star of the show, so choosing the right cut is important. Ribeye or sirloin work best because they have a good balance of tenderness and flavor. Be sure to cut the steak into evenly sized pieces so it cooks evenly.

Potatoes provide a hearty, filling base. Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture when cooked. Slice them thinly so they become perfectly tender inside the packet.

Garlic butter is what makes this dish truly shine. Freshly minced garlic combined with melted butter coats the steak and potatoes, infusing them with deep, rich flavor. A touch of olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning during cooking.

Seasonings bring everything together. A blend of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.

For equipment, you’ll need heavy-duty aluminum foil to ensure the packets hold up during cooking and prevent any leaks.

How To Make This Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

Making these foil packets is as simple as chopping, seasoning, wrapping, and cooking. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F. If you’re cooking over a campfire, let the flames die down to hot coals for even heat distribution. Meanwhile, cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and slice the potatoes thinly.

In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak and potatoes with melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly coated, ensuring each bite will be packed with flavor.

Lay out large sheets of aluminum foil and divide the steak and potato mixture evenly between them. Fold up the edges, then seal the packets tightly to trap in the moisture and flavors.

Place the packets on the grill or in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. If cooking over a campfire, place the packets on a grate or directly in the coals, checking periodically for doneness.

Once cooked, carefully open the packets—watch out for the hot steam! Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they store well for later. Allow the packets to cool before transferring the contents to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the steak and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or olive oil. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak chewy.

Freezing is also an option. Store uncooked foil packets in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the cooking instructions.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tweak ingredients based on preferences and dietary needs.

For a lower-carb version, swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini slices. They’ll soak up the garlic butter just as well while keeping the dish lighter.

Want more vegetables? Try adding bell peppers, onions, or green beans. These add color, texture, and extra nutrients without complicating the cooking process.

If steak isn’t your favorite, chicken thighs or shrimp work beautifully. Adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken should reach 165°F, while shrimp cook in just 10 minutes.

For an extra flavor boost, drizzle the finished dish with balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Both options add a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the garlic butter.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. With its easy prep, bold flavors, and effortless cleanup, it’s the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights, backyard barbecues, or cozy camping trips.

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