Herb-Infused Potatoes Au Gratin Foil Packets with Leeks
Creamy, cheesy layers of thin potatoes meet fresh herbs and mellow leeks — all baked to perfection in easy foil packets for ultimate flavor and no mess!
There’s something magical about unwrapping a foil packet straight from the oven or grill — especially when it’s filled with tender potatoes, infused with herbs, and smothered in cheesy béchamel. This twist on classic au gratin potatoes feels both rustic and elegant. My grandmother used to tuck in leeks from her spring garden, and ever since, I’ve loved the subtle oniony sweetness they bring to every bite.
These foil packets are not only convenient — perfect for camping, weeknights, or make-ahead meals — but they also lock in flavor and moisture like a dream. Bonus: cleanup is nearly zero.
Ingredients
| Yukon gold or russet potatoes (thinly sliced) | 3 large |
| Leek (white & light green parts, thinly sliced) | 1 large |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half | ¾ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried) | 1 tsp |
| Fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried) | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese | 1½ cups |
| Butter (for greasing) | 2 tbsp |
| Foil sheets (12×12 inches) | 4 |
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or prep your grill).
- Lightly grease foil sheets with butter.
- Layer thinly sliced potatoes, leeks, herbs, garlic, and cheese into the center of each foil sheet.
- Drizzle each with cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold foil tightly into packets, sealing all edges.
- Bake 30–35 minutes (or grill over medium heat), until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
- Carefully open packets (watch for steam!) and serve warm. Optional: sprinkle with extra herbs or cheese before serving.
Nutritional Information (per packet)
| Calories | 420 |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 31g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Printable Summary
| Quick Overview | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Yield | 4 foil packets |
| Best for | Dinner, sides, camping |
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate the foil packets up to 24 hours ahead.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the texture will be lighter and slightly less creamy.
Q: What herbs pair best?
Thyme, rosemary, and even a touch of sage work beautifully here.
Q: Can I add bacon or ham?
Absolutely! Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham between the layers.
