Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
There’s something magical about opening a foil pack and watching the aromatic steam escape, revealing perfectly cooked steak and potatoes inside. This recipe became a family favorite during my first camping trip when I realized I could create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender steak, crispy potatoes, and melted cheese creates a complete dinner that feels both rustic and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic steak and cheesy bacon potato hash represents the perfect fusion of convenience and flavor. Instead of juggling multiple pans and worrying about timing, everything cooks together in individual foil packets that lock in moisture and intensify the flavors. The versatility is another major advantage – whether you’re grilling outdoors, cooking on the stovetop, or using your oven, these foil packs deliver consistent results every time.
Furthermore, the cleanup is virtually nonexistent since everything cooks in disposable foil. Each packet becomes its own little flavor bomb, with the garlic butter infusing both the steak and potatoes while the cheese melts into creamy perfection. Additionally, the bacon adds a smoky crunch that elevates the entire dish from simple to spectacular.
Ingredients
For The Potatoes:
- 26 ounces baby Yukon potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and cracked pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup diced bacon, cooked
- 1/3 cup scallions or green onions, sliced
For The Steak:
- 2 pounds whole eye fillet or ribeye steak, at room temperature
- Salt and cracked pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Pinch of salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Meanwhile, prepare the garlic butter by combining softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Next, divide this garlic butter mixture in half, then melt one portion in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Pat your steak dry with paper towels to ensure the best searing results. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect exterior while maintaining tenderness inside. Subsequently, spread the remaining non-melted garlic butter evenly over the steak, coating all surfaces.
Cutting the Steak
The size of your steak pieces directly affects the final doneness, so choose your cutting method based on your preference:
For Well-Done Steaks: Slice the fillet into 2-inch thick pieces. Remember that smaller pieces will cook faster but may become drier if overcooked.
For Medium-Rare Steaks: Cut the fillet into 4-inch long pieces. Larger pieces retain more moisture and result in juicier steaks. For even rarer results, consider cutting 5 to 6-inch pieces.
Assembly Process
Tear four to six 15-inch pieces of heavy-duty foil and arrange them on your kitchen counter. Combine the potatoes and onions in a bowl, then pour the melted garlic butter over the mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
Divide the seasoned steak and buttered potatoes among the top half of each foil sheet. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, then season generously with salt and pepper. The key to successful foil pack cooking lies in proper sealing – fold up the sides of the foil first, then bring the bottom half up to meet the top, creating a tight seal that prevents juices from escaping.
Cooking Instructions
Place the sealed foil packets on the hot grill, cover, and cook for 7 minutes on one side. Carefully flip the packets and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. The total cooking time should be approximately 12 minutes for properly tender potatoes and perfectly cooked steak.
When the cooking time is complete, carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the escaping steam. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the potatoes, then loosely tent with foil again. Allow the cheese to melt for an additional 3 minutes while still on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
These foil packs are virtually a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter juices. A glass of robust red wine or ice-cold beer complements the rich flavors perfectly.
For a more elegant presentation, transfer the contents to individual plates and garnish with additional fresh herbs. The colorful combination of golden potatoes, perfectly cooked steak, and melted cheese creates an impressive display that’s sure to impress guests.
Recipe Variations
Transform this basic recipe by experimenting with different cheese combinations. Monterey Jack offers a milder flavor profile, while sharp cheddar provides more intensity. Alternatively, try adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the potato mixture for extra vegetables.
For a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter. Mediterranean enthusiasts might enjoy adding cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The foil pack method is incredibly forgiving and adapts well to various flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead Tips
These foil packs can be assembled up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy weeknight dinners. Simply prepare the packets in the morning, then cook them when you’re ready to eat.
If preparing ahead, consider adding the cheese just before cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy. The garlic butter can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making the assembly process even quicker.
Notes
Selecting the right cut of steak is crucial for success with this recipe. Eye fillet, ribeye, porterhouse, or top sirloin all work excellently because they remain tender during the cooking process. Avoid tougher cuts that require longer cooking times, as they won’t achieve the desired tenderness in the foil pack method.
The cooking times provided are guidelines, but remember that the final result depends on how large or small you cut your steak pieces. Larger pieces will be more medium-rare, while smaller pieces will cook to well-done more quickly.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Stovetop Method: Use a cast iron skillet or heavy-based pan for best results. Preheat the skillet over medium heat, then place foil packs in the hot pan. Cook covered for 7 minutes, flip, and cook for another 7 minutes. You may need to cook in batches depending on your pan size.
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes. Flip the packs and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes until done to your liking. For extra char, carefully open the packs and broil for 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes? While baby Yukon potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and thin skin, you can substitute with red potatoes or even russets. Just ensure they’re cut into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
What if I don’t have heavy-duty foil? Regular foil can work, but use a double layer to prevent tearing. Heavy-duty foil is recommended because it’s less likely to puncture and provides better heat distribution.
How do I know when the steak is done? The cooking times provided will give you medium doneness. For more precise results, use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for well-done.
Can I make this recipe without bacon? Absolutely! The bacon adds flavor and texture, but the recipe works wonderfully without it. Consider adding extra cheese or some sautéed mushrooms for additional richness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. The foil pack method doesn’t typically yield many leftovers, though, as it’s usually devoured completely!
Can I prepare these for a large group? This recipe scales up easily. Simply multiply the ingredients and create additional foil packs. Each pack serves one person generously, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 600
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Iron: 4mg