Baked Potatoes in Foil Packets with Parmesan Ranch Sauce

Baked Potatoes in Foil Packets with Parmesan Ranch Sauce are a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for grilling, roasting, or campfire cooking. These tender potatoes are wrapped in foil, baked to perfection, and then smothered in a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce that takes them to the next level. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, they pair well with everything from grilled steak to BBQ chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total win for both flavor and convenience. Wrapping the potatoes in foil keeps them moist and tender while locking in flavor. The Parmesan Ranch Sauce is creamy, tangy, and packed with savory goodness—ideal for potato lovers. Whether you’re making dinner at home or cooking out at the campsite, these foil packet potatoes are mess-free, versatile, and seriously satisfying.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried parsley
• Foil sheets

For the Parmesan Ranch Sauce:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Mayonnaise
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Fresh chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (or preheat grill to medium heat).
2. Wash and halve the baby potatoes (or cut into chunks if using larger potatoes).
3. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
4. Divide the potatoes evenly between foil sheets and fold into sealed packets.
5. Bake in the oven or grill over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Meanwhile, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Carefully open the foil packets, drizzle with Parmesan Ranch Sauce, and garnish with chives or green onions if desired.
8. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Assembly time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Loaded version: Add cooked bacon and shredded cheddar before sealing the foil for a loaded potato vibe.
• Spicy kick: Mix some hot sauce or crushed red pepper into the sauce for heat.
• Herbaceous twist: Use fresh rosemary or thyme in place of parsley for an earthy touch.
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free sour cream, mayo, and Parmesan-style cheese.
• Roasted garlic: Add whole garlic cloves to the foil for a mellow, roasted garlic flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover potatoes and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat potatoes in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet until warmed through.
Microwaving also works in a pinch. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave at low power.

FAQs

Can I make these foil packet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, prep and assemble the packets ahead of time and refrigerate. Cook when ready to serve.

Can I use full-sized potatoes?

Yes, just cut them into smaller chunks so they cook evenly in the foil.

Is this recipe grill-friendly?

Absolutely—just cook the foil packets over medium heat for about 25–30 minutes.

Can I cook these over a campfire?

Yes! Place the foil packets over hot coals and cook, flipping occasionally, until potatoes are tender.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture in the sauce.

Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning?

Ranch seasoning is preferred for the thicker sauce consistency, but a thick ranch dressing can be used in a pinch.

What other toppings work well?

Chopped bacon, scallions, shredded cheese, or diced tomatoes make great additions.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Nope—just scrub them clean. The skins add flavor and texture.

How do I prevent sticking in the foil?

Tossing the potatoes in oil helps, but you can also spray the foil with nonstick spray.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just divide the potatoes into more foil packets to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Baked Potatoes in Foil Packets with Parmesan Ranch Sauce are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—comforting, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re roasting in the oven, grilling out back, or cooking over an open flame, this easy side dish delivers big taste with minimal cleanup. Serve them up with your favorite mains and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.

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