Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that’s simple to prepare but loaded with flavor, Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets are about to become a fast favorite in your kitchen. This recipe wraps tender steak pieces, creamy potatoes, caramelized onions, and a rich garlic butter sauce in a neat foil packet, locking in every ounce of juiciness. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or turning on the oven, these packets are a no-fuss way to enjoy a comfort-food classic with minimal cleanup. Perfect for campfires, backyard parties, or cozy nights at home, Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets deliver bold taste and effortless style.

Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets so special? It’s the way these simple, accessible ingredients come together, each bringing its own magic to the mix. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a little wisdom for getting the most out of each component:
- Steak (1 ½ pounds, sirloin recommended): Sirloin is tender and flavorful, but feel free to use your favorite cut—for best results, go for well-marbled beef.
- Baby potatoes (1 pound, cut to ½ inch pieces): Their creamy texture stands up to both the grill and oven, and cutting them evenly ensures everything cooks at the same pace.
- Onion (1, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced): Sliced onions melt into the dish, lending sweetness and depth as they roast.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just a little oil helps everything caramelize and keeps the ingredients from sticking.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Parsley brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color right at the end.
- Minced garlic (1 tablespoon or more): Don’t be shy—this gives the packets their signature, mouthwatering aroma.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): This blend infuses every bite with herby goodness—oregano, basil, and thyme shine here.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season generously! Salt brings out juiciness and pepper adds a bold kick.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, cubed): Those little pockets of butter melt over the steak and potatoes, delivering the “garlic butter” wow factor you’re here for.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets
Step 1: Par-boil the Potatoes
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the chopped baby potatoes. Give them just five minutes in the bubbling water, which helps them cook through quickly later and ensures your potatoes come out creamy, not crunchy. Drain the potatoes right away and let them cool for about 10 minutes so they’re easy to handle.
Step 2: Prep the Steak
Cut your steak into chunks—the size you choose depends on how well done you want your beef (smaller pieces cook faster and more thoroughly; larger ones stay juicier and rare). If you have a little extra time, let the steak marinate in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for even more flavor, but it’s totally optional.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, mix together your steak, par-boiled potatoes, sliced onions, olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning! Toss everything well so each piece is evenly coated—this ensures that classic Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets taste in every single mouthful.
Step 4: Assemble the Foil Packets
Tear four big squares of aluminum foil, about 12×12 inches each. Pile the steak and potato mixture in the center of each foil sheet, then top with cubes of butter. Fold the edges up over the filling and crimp them closed tightly to seal in all the juices—this little parcel will keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
Step 5: Cook the Foil Packets
If you’re grilling, place the packets on a hot grill for 8 to 10 minutes on each side. For oven lovers, bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes. Exact times will vary depending on steak size and your oven or grill; peek after 10–15 minutes to test for doneness. Want a little char? Unwrap and broil for 1–2 minutes at the end! Just be careful opening the packets, as the steam inside is seriously hot.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets

Garnishes
A shower of freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds freshness and color. For extra flavor, try a sprinkle of flaked sea salt or a squeeze of lemon over the top—it brings out the richness of the garlic butter and steak.
Side Dishes
These Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets are hearty on their own, but pairing them with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables adds balance. If you’re serving a crowd, warm bread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra juices left in the packet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic, fun vibe, let everyone open their own foil packet at the table—there’s something joyful about unveiling your meal. Or, remove the contents and arrange them family-style on a big platter, drizzling any remaining garlic butter over the top. Either way, those golden potatoes and juicy steak always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), pop any leftover Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, making lunch the next day a serious treat.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked foil packets for a make-ahead meal, or freeze cooked leftovers. To freeze, wrap the packets tightly, then store in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F, either still wrapped in foil or in a covered baking dish, until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes). Microwaving works in a pinch—just transfer to a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely to keep things moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin is especially tender and flavorful, you can use ribeye, strip steak, or even filet—just keep in mind that fattier cuts will yield juicier results, while leaner cuts may need a shorter cook time.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem! You can mix your own blend with equal parts dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or simply use what you have on hand. A little extra garlic never hurts, either.
Can I add other vegetables to my Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, or zucchini all roast beautifully alongside the steak and potatoes—just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for the campfire?
Yes! Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets are a campfire classic. Just nestle the packets in the coals (not directly in the flames) and turn them every few minutes until the steak is cooked to your liking.
How do I avoid overcooking the steak?
Cut your steak into larger pieces for rarer results, or check the packets a few minutes early. Remember, the meat will continue to cook a bit from residual heat after coming off the grill or out of the oven, so err on the side of less if you like it more rare.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets yet, now’s your chance—they’re all about big flavors and easy living. Make them for your next weeknight dinner, family cookout, or camping trip, and watch how quickly everyone falls in love with this crave-worthy classic. Give it a go, then make it yours!
PrintGarlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets Recipe
These Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for grilling outdoors or baking in the oven. Juicy steak, tender potatoes, and flavorful seasonings come together in a convenient foil packet for minimal mess and maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Foil Packets:
- 1 ½ pounds steak (sirloin is my favorite cut here)
- 1 pound baby potatoes (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
- 1 onion (peeled, halved and then thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter (cubed)
Instructions
- Par-boil the potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a pot of boiling, salted water and cook for 5 minutes. Drain immediately and place in a large bowl. Allow to sit until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes.
- Make the foil packets:
Prep the steak: Cut the steak into pieces. Marinate it if you like.
Combine ingredients: Place the steak, potatoes, onion, olive oil, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and toss well.
Assemble foil packets: Set out 4 pieces of aluminum foil, at least 12×12 inches. Evenly divide the steak and potatoes between the middles of the foil sheets. Top with butter cubes, then fold the foil over the steak and potatoes and seal well. - Cook the foil packets:
On the grill/fire: On a HOT grill, cook the foil packets for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the potatoes are tender.
In the oven: Bake the steak foil packets at 425°F for around 20 minutes, or until done to your liking. If you want a char on the steaks, open the packets and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end. Careful when opening the packets – hot steam and juices ahead!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Steak, Foil Packets, Grilled Steak, Potato Packets