Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Foil Packets (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1½ pounds small (two-bite) Yukon gold potatoes, halved
02 - 4 teaspoons vegetable or olive oil
03 - 2 tablespoons ranch dip mix (from 1-ounce package)
04 - 1 jalapeño chile, seeded and finely chopped
05 - 4 slices cooked bacon, coarsely chopped
06 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces)

→ For Cooking

07 - Heavy-duty aluminum foil
08 - Cooking spray

→ Optional Garnish

09 - Additional sliced jalapeño
10 - Chopped fresh parsley or chives
11 - Sour cream for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Heat gas or charcoal grill to medium heat (around 375°F).
02 - Cut two 18x12-inch sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Spray each sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine the halved potatoes, oil, ranch dip mix, and chopped jalapeño. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings.
04 - Divide the potato mixture evenly between the two foil sheets, placing it in the center of each. Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the potatoes.
05 - For each pack, bring up two sides of foil so the edges meet. Seal edges with a tight ½-inch fold, then fold again to allow space for heat circulation and expansion. Fold the remaining sides to seal completely.
06 - Place the foil packs on the grill over medium heat. Cover the grill and cook for 12 minutes.
07 - Rotate the packs a half turn and continue cooking for another 12 to 14 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
08 - Remove the packs from the grill. Using scissors or a knife, cut a large X across the top of each pack. Carefully fold back the foil (watch for hot steam) and sprinkle the potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese.
09 - Return the opened packs to the grill with the lid closed for 1-2 minutes just until the cheese melts, or allow the residual heat to melt the cheese.
10 - If desired, garnish with additional jalapeño slices, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream before serving directly from the foil packets.

# Notes:

01 - For easier cleanup, you can line your serving plates with the opened foil packets.
02 - These foil packs can also be cooked in a 425°F oven for 25-30 minutes if you don't have access to a grill.
03 - Make sure all potato pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
04 - For a complete meal, add chunks of smoked sausage or chicken to the foil packs before grilling.