Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Hobo Dinner Foil Packets recipe. This classic campfire meal, also known as hobo packets or foil packet dinners, is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheese, these foil packets are bursting with flavor and sure to please the whole family. Plus, with the convenience of cooking in individual packets, cleanup is a breeze. So, let’s fire up the grill or oven and embark on a culinary adventure with this delicious and versatile recipe!
Ingredients:
- Beef: You will need lean ground beef for this recipe.
- Mayonnaise: This will add a creamy consistency to the filling.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a delightful smoky flavor to the recipe.
- Minced Onion: Dried minced onion adds flavor and texture.
- Potatoes: Baby or small potatoes work best for this recipe.
- Carrots: Peeled and sliced carrots add sweetness and color.
- Onion: White or yellow onion adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute if preferred.
- Seasoning: Use store-bought Italian seasoning or make your own blend.
- Cheese: Colby Jack Cheese adds gooey goodness to the packets.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley, for an optional garnish.
Instructions:
- Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Foil Packets: Tear off 6 large squares of aluminum foil, approximately 12×12 inches each. Place a handful of potatoes and carrots in the center of each foil square.
- Mix Beef Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, minced onion, and seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the beef mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into patties. Place one patty on top of the vegetables in each foil packet.
- Add Onions: Thinly slice the onion and place a few slices on top of each beef patty.
- Drizzle with Oil: Drizzle a little olive oil over each packet to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Wrap and Seal: Fold the edges of the foil over the beef and vegetables to create a tightly sealed packet. Repeat with the remaining packets.
- Cook: Place the foil packets on the preheated grill or in the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Add Cheese: Carefully open the foil packets and sprinkle Colby Jack Cheese over the beef patties. Return the packets to the grill or oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the foil packets from the grill or oven and carefully open them. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Personalize Your Packets: Feel free to customize your foil packets with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add sliced garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
- Try Different Proteins: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. You can also use sliced sausage or cubed tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Get creative with your seasoning blend by adding smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added freshness.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make these foil packets ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the foil packets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or camping trips.
Q: Can I cook these foil packets on a campfire? A: Absolutely! These foil packets are a classic campfire meal. Simply place them on hot coals or on a grill grate over the fire and cook for the same amount of time.
Q: Can I freeze leftover foil packets? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked foil packets in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, use ground beef with a higher fat content for extra flavor and richness. Omit the potatoes and carrots, and instead use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or green beans. Use full-fat mayonnaise and cheese, and ensure all other ingredients are keto-friendly.
Low-Carb Version:
To reduce the carb content of this recipe, use fewer potatoes and carrots or omit them altogether. Instead, add more low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. Use a low-carb mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute, and opt for a low-carb seasoning blend.
In conclusion, our Hobo Dinner Foil Packets recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire, grilling in the backyard, or baking in the oven, these foil packets are sure to please. With customizable ingredients and minimal cleanup, they’re a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of this classic comfort food dish
