Can I make these potatoes in the oven instead of on the grill?

Absolutely! Prepare the packets exactly the same way, then bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender. This makes the recipe accessible year-round, even without a grill.

Why are my potatoes not cooking evenly?

Uneven cooking usually comes down to inconsistent potato chunk sizes. Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces, about 1-inch each. Also, if some pieces are done while others aren't, your grill might have hot spots - rotate the packets more frequently.

Can I use a different type of potato?

While Yukon gold and red potatoes are ideal because of their waxier texture and ability to hold shape, russet potatoes will work too. They might break down a bit more, creating a slightly mushier texture, but the flavor will still be excellent.

Is it necessary to use all those herbs, or can I simplify?

The herb blend creates a well-rounded flavor profile, but cooking is all about making it work for you! You can absolutely use just one herb (rosemary alone is fantastic) or even substitute with 2-3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning if that's what you have on hand.

Easy Grilled Potatoes Recipe

Name: Easy Grilled Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese or cheddar

These Easy Grilled Potatoes are a game-changer for outdoor cooking – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with herb-infused flavor. Wrapped in foil packets and cooked on the grill, they deliver maximum taste with minimal effort. Perfect alongside any grilled main dish, these potatoes will become your go-to side for barbecues, camping trips, or weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Fuss, No Mess: Foil packet cooking means zero cleanup from baking dishes or pans – simply toss the foil when you’re done!
Perfect Texture: The foil packet method steam-roasts the potatoes, giving you that ideal combination of crispy edges and tender centers.
Customizable Flavors: The herb blend provides a fantastic baseline, but you can easily adjust seasonings or try the alternative flavor variations.
Does Double Duty: These potatoes work beautifully as both a side dish and a hearty breakfast option (just add a fried egg on top of leftovers!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Yukon gold or red potatoes: These varieties hold their shape well during grilling and have naturally buttery, creamy textures. Their thin skins mean no peeling necessary!
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the potatoes and promotes even browning. Use a good quality one for best flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the potatoes. Fresh is always best here.
Garlic powder: Provides even garlic flavor throughout without burning (which can happen with fresh garlic).
Salt and pepper: The foundations of good seasoning – don’t skimp!
Dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano): This Mediterranean-inspired blend infuses the potatoes as they cook. These herbs can withstand the heat of grilling without burning.
Parmesan or cheddar cheese: Added at the end for a salty, umami finish that takes these potatoes over the top.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Pesto Potatoes

Transform these potatoes into an herbal delight by tossing them with fresh homemade pesto before grilling. The basil, pine nuts, and additional garlic create a vibrant flavor profile that’s perfect for summer grilling.

Lemon Pepper Butter

For an indulgent twist, the lemon-pepper butter compound adds richness and a bright citrus note. The butter melts into the potatoes as they cook, creating little pockets of intense flavor.

Loaded Potato Packets

Add diced bacon to the potato mixture before grilling, then top with extra cheese, sour cream, and chives after cooking for loaded baked potato vibes.

Spicy Version

Add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne to the seasoning mix for potatoes with a kick.

How to Make Easy Grilled Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). While the grill heats up, scrub your potatoes thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1-inch pieces. Consistent sizing ensures they cook at the same rate.

Step 2: Season Generously

In a large bowl, drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, making sure each piece gets a light coating. Add the lemon juice and all the seasonings (garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and oregano). Toss thoroughly, using your hands if needed, to ensure even distribution of spices on all potato surfaces.

Step 3: Create Foil Packets

Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12-14 inches long each). Divide the seasoned potatoes equally among the foil pieces, placing them in the center. Fold up the sides and seal tightly to create packets, leaving a small space at the top for steam circulation. If using regular-weight foil, double up to prevent tearing.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place the foil packets on the preheated grill, spacing them evenly. Close the lid and cook for 20 minutes, rotating the packets halfway through to account for any hot spots on your grill. The potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Carefully remove the packets from the grill using tongs. Open them (watch for escaping steam!) and sprinkle with parmesan or cheddar cheese while still hot, allowing it to melt slightly. Alternatively, top with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Size Matters: Cut potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking – aim for about 1-inch chunks.
Double Wrap: If you don’t have heavy-duty foil, use two layers of regular foil to prevent tears and potato leakage.
Steam Valve: Leave a tiny bit of space in your foil packet for steam to circulate, which helps cook the potatoes evenly.
Grill Placement: If your grill has hot spots (most do!), place packets in different zones and rotate them during cooking.
Doneness Test: If you’re unsure if potatoes are done, carefully open one packet and test a potato with a fork – it should slide in easily.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

These potatoes partner beautifully with grilled steaks, chicken, fish, or burgers. Their versatile flavor profile complements almost any main dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve directly in the foil packets for a rustic presentation, or transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Additional Toppings

Set up a “potato bar” with options like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, extra cheese, hot sauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Make Ahead and Storage

Prep Ahead

You can cut and season the potatoes up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers in a skillet with a little olive oil to crisp them up again. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, though they won’t be as crispy.

Repurposing Leftovers

Chop leftover potatoes and use them in breakfast hashes, frittatas, or potato salad for a quick meal the next day.

FAQs

Can I make these potatoes in the oven instead of on the grill?

Absolutely! Prepare the packets exactly the same way, then bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender. This makes the recipe accessible year-round, even without a grill.
Why are my potatoes not cooking evenly?

Uneven cooking usually comes down to inconsistent potato chunk sizes. Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces, about 1-inch each. Also, if some pieces are done while others aren’t, your grill might have hot spots – rotate the packets more frequently.
Can I use a different type of potato?

While Yukon gold and red potatoes are ideal because of their waxier texture and ability to hold shape, russet potatoes will work too. They might break down a bit more, creating a slightly mushier texture, but the flavor will still be excellent.
Is it necessary to use all those herbs, or can I simplify?

The herb blend creates a well-rounded flavor profile, but cooking is all about making it work for you! You can absolutely use just one herb (rosemary alone is fantastic) or even substitute with 2-3 teaspoons of Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Grilled Potatoes are truly one of those magical side dishes that deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. They’re adaptable to whatever herbs and seasonings you have on hand, pair with practically anything, and free up valuable oven space when you’re entertaining. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just getting started with outdoor cooking, these foil packet potatoes deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection!