If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal, these Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Perfect for grilling, baking, or even cooking over a campfire, this dish is packed with juicy, tender steak, buttery garlic potatoes, and optional veggies for extra color and flavor. The best part? Minimal cleanup!
Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a camping adventure, these foil packets make cooking effortless. Everything cooks together in a sealed foil packet, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the steak juicy and the potatoes perfectly tender.
Now, let’s dive into how to make this delicious one-packet meal step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation – Just chop, mix, and wrap everything in foil.
- Versatile Cooking Methods – Bake in the oven, grill outdoors, or cook over a campfire.
- Minimal Cleanup – No messy pots and pans!
- Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or switch up the seasonings.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need:
For the Packets:
- 1 lb steak – Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 lb baby potatoes – Halved or quartered for faster cooking.
- 1 red bell pepper (optional) – Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 small onion (optional) – Brings a savory touch.
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – The rich, flavorful base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds deep, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Earthy and fragrant.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Perfectly complements the steak.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Brings a smoky depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Depending on how you plan to cook your foil packets, follow these preparation steps:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Campfire Method: Ensure you have a bed of medium-hot coals ready for even cooking.
Next, cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12–14 inches each). This will ensure the packets are sturdy enough to hold everything while cooking.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix together:
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Smoked paprika (if using)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
This buttery, garlicky mixture will infuse the steak and potatoes with incredible flavor while keeping them moist and tender. Set it aside while you assemble the packets.
Step 4: Assemble the Foil Packets
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!
- Divide the potatoes evenly among the four foil sheets, placing them in the center. Drizzle with some of the garlic butter mixture to start building flavor.
- Add the cubed steak on top of the potatoes. Drizzle more garlic butter over the steak, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Optional veggies: If you’re using bell peppers or onions, sprinkle them on top for extra color and texture.
At this point, your foil packets are loaded with flavor and ready to be sealed up for cooking!
Step 5: Seal the Foil Packets
Sealing the foil packets properly is key to locking in moisture and flavor while ensuring even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring the two longer sides of the foil together over the ingredients and fold them tightly, creating a secure seal.
- Fold in the shorter edges of the foil, making sure there are no openings where juices could escape.
- Leave a little bit of space inside the packet—this allows air to circulate, helping the food cook evenly.
Now, your packets are ready to cook!
Step 6: Cook the Foil Packets
Depending on your preferred cooking method, follow these instructions to get perfectly tender potatoes and juicy steak.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you haven’t already.
- Place the sealed foil packets on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak reaches your desired doneness.
Grill Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Campfire Method:
- Place the foil packets over medium-hot coals in a campfire or fire pit.
- Cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Pro Tip: If you prefer your steak more on the medium-rare side, you can remove the packets a few minutes earlier. For well-done steak, leave them in for an extra 3–5 minutes.
Step 7: Open and Serve
Once the packets are done cooking, carefully open them—watch out for the steam! The steak should be juicy, the potatoes tender, and everything infused with that rich, garlicky butter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a little grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve directly from the foil for a fun, rustic meal, or transfer everything onto a plate.
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets
- Cut the potatoes small: Halving or quartering them ensures they cook at the same rate as the steak.
- Use heavy-duty foil: This prevents tearing and helps retain heat. If using thinner foil, double wrap for extra durability.
- Don’t overcook the steak: If you like your steak medium or medium-rare, check it a few minutes early.
- Let the packets rest: After cooking, let them sit for a couple of minutes before opening. This helps redistribute the juices, making the steak even more flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes! While sirloin, ribeye, and tenderloin work best, you can also use strip steak or filet mignon. Just avoid tougher cuts like flank or chuck, as they require longer cooking times.
2. How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?
To keep your steak tender, cut the potatoes into smaller pieces so they cook faster. If you prefer medium-rare steak, you can pre-cook the potatoes for 5–7 minutes before assembling the packets.
3. Can I make these foil packets ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the packets up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
4. What vegetables can I add to the packets?
Aside from bell peppers and onions, you can add mushrooms, zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. Just keep in mind that softer vegetables cook faster, so cut them into larger pieces.
5. Can I cook these foil packets in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the packets for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
6. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the contents in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
7. Can I use frozen steak or potatoes?
It’s best to use fresh ingredients, but if using frozen steak or potatoes, thaw them completely and pat them dry before assembling the packets to prevent excess moisture.
Conclusion
Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets are the ultimate fuss-free meal—packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any cooking method. Whether you’re grilling in the summer, baking in the oven for a cozy dinner, or enjoying them by the campfire, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! If you made any tweaks—like adding extra veggies or trying a different seasoning—drop a comment and share your experience. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets
Description
A delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for grilling, baking, or even cooking over a campfire. These foil packets combine tender steak, buttery garlic potatoes, and optional veggies for a hearty and flavorful dish with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
For the Packets:
- 1 lb (450 g) steak – Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes – Halved or quartered for quicker cooking.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional) – For added color and flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced (optional) – Adds a sweet, savory touch.
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – The base of the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – For rich, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Adds an earthy herbiness.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Complements the steak beautifully.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
Instructions
🔹 Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
🔹 Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
🔹 Cut 4 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12–14 inches each).
🔹 In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
🔹 Potatoes: Divide the halved baby potatoes evenly among the foil sheets, placing them in the center. Drizzle with some of the garlic butter mixture.
🔹 Steak: Add the cubed steak on top of the potatoes. Drizzle with more garlic butter to coat everything well.
🔹 Optional Veggies: If using bell peppers or onions, layer them on top for added flavor and color.
🔹 Bring the edges of the foil together and fold tightly to seal, ensuring no steam escapes.
🔹 Leave a little room inside for air circulation and even cooking.
🔹 Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness.
🔹 Place the packets directly on the grill grates and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🔹 Place the packets over medium-hot coals and cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping occasionally.
🔹 Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam!).
🔹 Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
🔹 Serve directly from the foil for an easy and mess-free meal!
Notes
✔ Best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
✔ To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat.
Enjoy your Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets – a perfect meal for any occasion! 🥩🥔🔥
