Classic Campfire Foil Dinners

Ingredients

  • (Serves 4)
  • 2 large onions, sliced
  • 1 pound lean ground beef, formed into 4 patties
  • 4 teaspoons dry gravy mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 to 4 carrots, thinly sliced
  • 3 to 4 potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 4 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil (14 x 18 inches)

There’s nothing like an old-fashioned foil dinner cooked over hot coals. It’s simple, filling, and endlessly customizable—perfect for camping, backyard fires, or even the oven when you want that nostalgic outdoor taste.

This version uses lean ground beef, sliced vegetables, and a hint of gravy mix to bring big flavor with minimal mess. Whether you call it a hobo dinner, foil pack meal, or campfire classic, it’s a meal everyone loves.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    Build Your Packet:
  • 2
    Lay out a sheet of foil. In the center, place 1–2 slices of onion and 1 beef patty.
  • 3
    Sprinkle the patty with 1 teaspoon dry gravy mix, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
  • 4
    Add the Veggies:
  • 5
    Top with thinly sliced carrots and potatoes. Add another onion slice if desired.
  • 6
    Seal It Up:
  • 7
    Fold the foil securely using the drugstore-wrap method (fold long edges over twice, then fold in short ends). This ensures no leaks while cooking.
  • 8
    Cook Over Coals:
  • 9
    Place directly on hot coals. Cook for 10–15 minutes per side, turning once.
  • 10
    Check for doneness, especially the meat—cook longer if needed.

Tips for Success

  • 1
    Don’t skimp on the foil—heavy-duty works best for withstanding high heat.
  • 2
    Slice veggies thin so they cook at the same rate as the meat.
  • 3
    Mix up the flavors—try adding Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or a splash of BBQ sauce.
  • 4
    Want more variety? Throw in sliced bell peppers or canned corn.

Foil Dinner Variations

  • 1
    Mexican Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
  • 2
    Italian Twist: Sprinkle with Italian herbs and top with a spoonful of marinara before sealing.
  • 3
    Breakfast Pack: Swap the beef for sausage, potatoes, and scrambled egg mixture.

Indoor Option

  • 1

    No fire pit? No problem!
    Bake in the oven at 375°F for 35–40 minutes, or until meat is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.

Roughing It Easy

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