Garlic Cheddar Foil-Packet Potatoes

These Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes are tender, buttery, and loaded with melty cheese. They make an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish for grilling, camping, or baking in the oven — perfect for busy weeknights and backyard gatherings.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes!

These foil-pack potatoes require just a handful of simple ingredients and very little hands-on time. Thinly sliced russet potatoes are seasoned, layered with onion and butter, sealed in foil, and cooked until tender. Once hot, each packet is opened to add shredded cheddar, which melts quickly from the residual heat for a gooey finish.

Foil packets are ideal when you want minimal prep and an easy cleanup. They’re budget-friendly, portable for camping or tailgates, and can be cooked on a grill or in the oven to complement any main dish.

Ingredients

• 6 Russet potatoes – peeled and sliced about 1/4″ thick so they cook evenly.
• 1 onion – thinly sliced; optional if you prefer no onion.
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter – about 1 Tbsp per packet.
• Salt and pepper – approximately 1 1/2 tsp each for the recipe; adjust to taste.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – freshly shredded melts best.

These simple pantry ingredients create a comforting, cheesy side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, weeknight mains, or picnic fare.

How to Make Cheesy Potato Foil Packs

Step 1 – Prepare potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice into 1/4″ thick rounds so they cook at the same rate.

Step 2 – Slice onion: Peel and thinly slice the onion. If you prefer, omit the onion or substitute a milder variety.

Step 3 – Prep foil: Tear heavy-duty aluminum foil into large squares (one per potato packet or one per serving). Lightly spray or grease the foil to prevent sticking.

Step 6 – Cook: Grill over medium-high heat for 30–40 minutes or bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 40–45 minutes, until potatoes are fork tender.

Step 7 – Add cheese: Carefully open each foil packet, sprinkle about 1/4 cup shredded cheddar over the hot potatoes, and reclose the foil briefly for 3–5 minutes so the cheese melts.

Step 8 – Serve: Open packets, top as desired, and serve warm.

Recipe Details

Servings: 6 • Prep time: 20 mins • Cook time: 35–45 mins • Total time: about 55 mins

Cuisine: American • Course: Side dish • Calories (per serving): approx. 392

Ingredients (per recipe)

• 6 Russet potatoes
• 1 onion
• 6 Tbsp butter
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Peel the potatoes and slice into 1/4″ rounds.
2. Peel and thinly slice the onion.
3. Place heavy-duty foil on your work surface and lightly grease it. Use one piece per packet.
4. Layer potato and onion slices on the foil. Season each packet with about 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper, and top with 1 Tbsp butter.
5. Fold and seal each foil packet tightly.
6. Cook on a grill over medium-high heat for 30–40 minutes or bake at 375°F for 40–45 minutes, until tender.
7. Carefully open each packet, add about 1/4 cup shredded cheddar, reseal briefly until the cheese melts (3–5 minutes).
8. Serve warm and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• Use heavy-duty foil so packets won’t tear while cooking.
• Open foil packets carefully; steam can be very hot. Pierce a small hole first if you prefer.
• Slice potatoes evenly so they finish cooking at the same time.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and melty cheese.
• Shred cheese from a block for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking additives.

Recipe Variations

• Swap the cheese: try Colby, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for different flavors.
• Use other potato varieties: red potatoes or Yukon Golds work well and offer different textures.
• Swap butter for olive oil if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Add diced cooked chicken or ham to turn the packets into a complete meal.
• Include extra vegetables such as sliced zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.

How to Cook in the Oven

Prepare packets exactly the same as for the grill. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 40–45 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, reseal for a few minutes to melt, then serve hot.

Topping Ideas

Once the cheese is melted, add your favorite finishing touches. Some great options:

• Parmesan cheese
• Sour cream
• Chives or green onions
• Sliced jalapeños
• Bacon bits

Seasoning Ideas

If you want to vary the flavor profile, try adding one or more of these to your packets:

• Garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat
• Chili powder
• Ranch seasoning
• Italian seasoning or fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme

Frequently Asked Questions

If you try this Cheesy Foil Pack Potatoes recipe, leave a comment or rating — it helps others discover this easy, delicious side dish. Enjoy!