These easy Grilled Potatoes in Foil Packets are the best summer side dish. Most people overlook potatoes when thinking about grilling, but they turn out so good, and cooking them on the grill means no extra dishes. Make some Grilled Brussels Sprouts or Grilled Asparagus.
For some reason when we think about grilling, most of us don't think about grilling potatoes but they are so good and so easy. They get tender and crispy and slightly smoky. Trust me. Once you start making these grilled potato packets, there is no turning back.
Plus they are so versatile. Switch up the spices and herbs you use, make it with or without mushrooms, serve fun topping options on the side. The options are endless.
Here's how we serve them in our house. First I assemble the individual potato packed. Mine is packed with onions, mushrooms, and plenty of herbs. Then I make a couple of packets with just potatoes and onions, and one final packet with just potatoes. I also adjust the seasoning, adding more herbs in mine and less for the kids.
Then while they are on the grill, I get the toppings ready. This includes chopped green onions, shredded cheese, bacon bits, and some Greek yogurt or sour cream. Everyone gets to top their own potatoes, just like a baked potato bar, but from the grill.
Recipe Ideas and Tips
- Ranch seasoning: It's hard to share a potato recipe without someone asking about ranch seasoning. These are delicious with ranch seasoning, just shake it over the potatoes and give it a stir to coat them before closing the foil packets.
- Cajun seasoning: For a spicier option, consider using some homemade Cajun seasoning. You could also use grill seasoning, taco seasoning, or any other spice mix you like.
- Add more vegetables: This recipe works well with other vegetables as well. They can be added right to the packets, just consider the cooking time if using quick cooking vegetables so they don't get mushy.
- Try it with sweet potatoes: For a different flavor option, swap in some sweet potatoes for the regular potatoes. You can also use baby potatoes, red potatoes, or fingerlings.
- Swap in sweet or red onions: To add a touch of sweetness, use a red onion or Vidalia onion instead of the traditional yellow or white onion.
- Add cheese: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, open up the packets and add a layer of cheese.
- Toppings: Set up all kinds of yummy toppings to serve with the packets including green onions, bacon bits, cheese, sour cream, and more. It's like a baked potato bar with grilled potatoes.
How long do potatoes take on the grill?
The length of time potatoes take on the grill depends largely on how they are cut and the thickness. For thinly sliced potatoes, they will take about 20 minutes on the grill over medium or indirect heat. They may take a little longer if they are more thickly sliced.
It can be difficult to cook potatoes on the grill without foil since they tend to burn on the outside before being tender inside. If you want to grill potato slices or wedges directly on the grill, make sure to par-boil them beforehand so they are inside will be tender.
Can I add more vegetables?
These grilled potatoes work great with all different types of vegetables and you can experiment with adding different vegetables to the packets. Ideally, try to choose vegetables that won't get too mushy when cooked like carrots, mushrooms, squash, onions, cabbage, or corn.
If you are using quicker cooking vegetables like zucchini, summer squash, asparagus, or green beans, it may be best to cook them in their own foil packets since they cook much more quickly. They will still work with the potatoes, but they will be on the softer side.
Do these packets work with sweet potatoes?
These work great with all types of potatoes including sweet potatoes. Favorites include grilling red potatoes, baby potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or sweet potatoes.
Can these grilled potatoes be baked?
If you aren't using the grill, these also work great in the oven. Just preheat the oven to 375 degrees and cook for 35-45 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender. Open up the packets and broil before serving to add some crispy edges.