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

There's something truly magical about the combination of juicy steak, tender potatoes, and bold garlic butter wrapped in a convenient foil packet. As the ingredients cook together, they create a rich, savory aroma that fills the air, making it impossible to resist.

I first made these Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets on a camping trip, and they quickly became a family favorite. The ease of tossing everything into foil, sealing it up, and letting the heat do the work makes this recipe a must-have for busy weeknights, backyard grilling, or outdoor adventures.

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

Get ready for a meal that checks all the right boxes – delicious, easy, and hassle-free.

First, the prep work is minimal. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of slicing and seasoning, you can have everything ready to go in no time.

Second, cooking in foil locks in moisture and flavor. The steak stays juicy, the potatoes become beautifully tender, and the garlic butter infuses everything with its rich, mouthwatering taste.

You'll also love how versatile this recipe is. Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes, add mushrooms for extra umami, or throw in some bell peppers for a pop of color and freshness.

Lastly, cleanup is a breeze. No messy pans or greasy stovetops—just toss the used foil and enjoy your meal without the hassle of scrubbing dishes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Steak: Choosing the right cut is key. I recommend using sirloin or ribeye, as they stay tender and juicy when cooked in foil. Avoid lean cuts like flank steak, which can turn tough and chewy.

Potatoes: Small baby potatoes or Yukon Gold work best because they cook evenly and develop a creamy texture. If using larger potatoes, cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they soften properly.

Garlic Butter: The heart of this dish. Freshly minced garlic, melted butter, and a touch of parsley create a rich, aromatic sauce that coats every bite. Feel free to add a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Seasonings: Simple but essential—salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and a hint of onion powder bring out the best in the steak and potatoes. If you love a bit of extra depth, try adding a sprinkle of Worcestershire sauce.

Aluminum Foil: Heavy-duty foil is best for wrapping the packets, preventing leaks, and ensuring even cooking.

How To Make This Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

Making these foil packets is incredibly easy, and the process ensures a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or your oven to 425°F. If using a campfire, ensure the coals are hot but not flaming.

While the grill heats up, cut your steak into bite-sized cubes and slice the baby potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size. You want everything to cook at the same rate.

In a mixing bowl, toss the steak and potatoes with melted garlic butter and seasonings. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and divide the mixture evenly among them. Fold the edges up to create sealed packets, ensuring no juices escape while cooking.

Place the packets directly on the grill grates or in the oven. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through if using a grill. You'll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is beautifully browned.

Carefully open the foil packets—watch out for steam! Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish stores well!

To refrigerate, place the cooled steak and potatoes in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.

To freeze, transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe bag, pressing out excess air. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, warm the foil packets in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super adaptable, making it perfect for various tastes and dietary needs.

Swap the steak: Not a fan of beef? Use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Change the veggies: Feel free to toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle sriracha into the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.

Go low-carb: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or radishes for a keto-friendly version.

Dairy-free? Swap the butter for olive oil or dairy-free margarine and skip the parmesan topping.

Experiment with different herbs, spices, and proteins to create your own twist on this classic foil packet meal. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to be delicious, easy, and satisfying!