Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets Recipe

There's something magical about opening up a steaming foil packet filled with juicy steak, tender potatoes, and fragrant garlic butter. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the best part? Everything cooks together in one neat little package, locking in all the flavors and juices.

I first discovered this recipe during a summer camping trip when we wanted a simple, no-mess meal that didn’t sacrifice flavor. Since then, it's become a go-to for busy weeknights and backyard BBQs. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, these Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets are a must-try!

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

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that's effortless, flavorful, and satisfying.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything together, wrap it in foil, and let the oven or grill do the work. No complicated steps, no fancy techniques—just pure, delicious simplicity.

It’s also perfect for meal prep and outdoor cooking. Whether you're cooking over an open fire, on the grill, or in the oven, these foil packets adapt beautifully. Plus, they make for an easy cleanup—no pots and pans to scrub!

Another great perk? It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy steak. You don’t need expensive cuts to make this meal shine. A good sirloin or even flank steak works wonderfully when paired with buttery garlic and tender potatoes.

Lastly, the customization possibilities are endless. Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes, throw in some mushrooms or bell peppers, or spice it up with Cajun seasoning. No matter how you tweak it, this dish always turns out delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect bite.

Steak: Choose a tender cut like sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak. These cuts cook up beautifully and stay juicy inside the foil. If you're using a tougher cut, marinating for a few hours can help tenderize the meat.

Potatoes: Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best since they cook evenly and have a creamy texture. Be sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces so they soften perfectly by the time the steak is done.

Garlic Butter: Freshly minced garlic combined with melted butter adds rich, savory flavor to every bite. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh garlic gives the best taste.

Seasonings: A mix of salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme enhances the natural flavors of the steak and potatoes. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick.

Foil: Heavy-duty aluminum foil is essential to prevent leaks and ensure everything cooks evenly. If you're using thinner foil, double-wrap for extra protection.

How To Make Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets

Making these foil packets is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how:

Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, making sure they’re uniform for even cooking. Slice the potatoes into small chunks and mince your fresh garlic.

In a large bowl, toss everything together. Add the steak, potatoes, melted butter, minced garlic, and seasonings. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated in that flavorful butter and spice blend.

Next, assemble your foil packets. Tear off large sheets of aluminum foil and divide the steak and potato mixture evenly among them. Fold the foil over the food and crimp the edges tightly to seal—this keeps all those delicious juices locked inside.

Now it’s time to cook the packets. You have options here: Grill them over medium-high heat for about 15 minutes per side, or bake them in a 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes. Either way, you’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.

Finally, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!) and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra pop of flavor.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them for later enjoyment.

For refrigeration, transfer any leftover steak and potatoes to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to let them cool slightly before storing.

To freeze, pack the cooled steak and potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating is simple—warm everything up in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or pop them back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time for everything to warm up evenly.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Swap the protein: Not a fan of steak? Try using chicken thighs, shrimp, or even salmon for a different take on the foil packet meal.

Add more veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus make excellent additions. They bring extra color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.

Use different seasonings: Instead of paprika and thyme, try a mix of rosemary and garlic, or go bold with Cajun or taco seasoning for a spicy kick.

Make it cheesy: Once the packets are cooked, open them up and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan before serving.

Go low-carb: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets or chopped Brussels sprouts for a keto-friendly version.

No matter how you customize it, these Garlic Steak & Potato Foil Packets are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own!

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