Cheesy Sausage and Baby Potatoes Foil Packs are a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or even cooking over a campfire. These foil packs combine tender baby potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and melted cheddar cheese for a flavorful and satisfying dish. With minimal cleanup and easy preparation, these foil packs are ideal for busy weeknights or outdoor adventures. Let’s dive into this simple recipe and learn how to make Cheesy Sausage and Baby Potatoes Foil Packs step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- 4 sheets of aluminum foil, 12 inches each
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Grill or Oven:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Halve or quarter the baby potatoes. Dice the bell pepper and onion.
- Slice Sausage:
- Slice the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch pieces.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
- Combine Seasonings:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packs
- Lay Out Foil Sheets:
- Lay out the 4 sheets of aluminum foil on a flat surface.
- Divide Ingredients:
- Divide the seasoned potatoes, smoked sausage, diced bell pepper, and diced onion evenly among the foil sheets.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over each foil pack.
- Seal Foil Packs:
- Fold the sides of the foil over the ingredients, then fold the top and bottom to create a sealed packet. Make sure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
Step 4: Cook the Foil Packs
- Grill:
- Place the foil packs on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning the packs halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
OR
- Bake:
- Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Open Foil Packs:
- Carefully open the foil packs to release the steam.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Cheesy Sausage and Baby Potatoes Foil Packs hot. Enjoy this easy and tasty meal with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Potatoes: Halve or quarter the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
- Cheese: For a gooey, melted cheese experience, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Sausage: Use your preferred type of smoked sausage. Turkey sausage, kielbasa, or chicken sausage can also be used.
Variations
Spicy Cheesy Sausage Foil Packs
- Add Heat:
- Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or add a few slices of jalapeño to each foil pack for a spicy kick.
Veggie Cheesy Sausage Foil Packs
- Add Vegetables:
- Add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the foil packs for added flavor and nutrition.
Herb Cheesy Sausage Foil Packs
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the foil packs for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a light and refreshing side.
- With Bread:
- Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any delicious juices.
Beverages
- With Beer:
- Enjoy with a cold beer, such as a lager or pale ale, for a classic pairing.
- With Lemonade:
- Serve with a glass of iced lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare these foil packs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the foil packs up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover foil packs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for different flavors.
Q: Can I cook these foil packs over a campfire? A: Yes, these foil packs are great for campfire cooking. Place them on hot coals and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
Q: Can I use different seasonings? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings or spice blends to customize the flavor.
Cheesy Sausage and Baby Potatoes Foil Packs are a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender potatoes, savory sausage, and melted cheese, these foil packs are sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty Cheesy Sausage and Baby Potatoes Foil Packs with your family and friends!
