Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with Hobo Dinner Foil Packets, a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for camping trips, backyard cookouts, or busy weeknight dinners. These foil packets are filled with savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, crisp carrots, and flavorful seasonings, all cooked to perfection in individual packets for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, you’ll love the simplicity and versatility of this satisfying dish. Let’s dive into the details and uncover the secrets to making Hobo Dinner Foil Packets that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onions
- 1 pound baby potatoes or small potatoes, cut in half
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 small white or yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning, divided (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare eight sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each approximately 12×12 inches in size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and dried minced onions. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the ground beef mixture into eight equal portions and place each portion in the center of a foil sheet.
- Toss the baby potatoes, sliced carrots, and thinly sliced onion with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning in a separate mixing bowl until evenly coated.
- Divide the seasoned vegetables evenly among the foil packets, placing them on top of the ground beef mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining Italian seasoning over the vegetables in each packet.
- Fold the foil packets tightly to seal, ensuring that there are no openings for steam to escape.
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the ground beef is cooked through.
- Carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the hot steam. Sprinkle grated Colby Jack cheese over each packet and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil packets from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the Hobo Dinner Foil Packets immediately, either directly in the foil packets or transferred to serving plates.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead. You can also substitute canned beans or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Get creative with your seasonings! Try using taco seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or your favorite spice blend for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I grill these foil packets instead of baking them? A: Yes, you can definitely grill these foil packets! Simply place them on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.
Q: Can I make these foil packets ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. When you’re ready to eat, simply place them in the oven or on the grill as directed.
Q: How do I know when the meat is cooked through? A: The ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be considered fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature if you’re unsure.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese for topping? A: Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like! Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta would all work well as toppings for these foil packets.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make these foil packets keto-friendly, omit the potatoes and use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or green beans instead. You can also use a sugar-free Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Version: Follow the same substitutions as the keto version, and be mindful of the portion size to keep the carb count low. You can also use a leaner ground beef or turkey to further reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Hobo Dinner Foil Packets are a versatile and delicious meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire, grilling in the backyard, or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner idea, these foil packets have you covered. With their customizable fillings, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven or grill, and get ready to enjoy the wholesome goodness of Hobo Dinner Foil Packets!
