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Campfire Cheeseburger Hobo Packets have become my go-to answer for outdoor dinners that feel fun and hearty without a lot of fuss. When I first served these on a weekend camping trip, everyone raved about getting their own foil bundle—juicy cheeseburger, melting cheese, tender potatoes and sweet carrots all tucked together. Clean-up is a breeze, and the packets hold in so much flavor.
Ingredients
- Ground hamburger: Look for 80 percent lean for balance of flavor and juiciness Taste improves with good quality beef from the butcher counter
- Egg: This binds the patties together One fresh egg is all you need
- Seasoning salt: Adds savory depth and enhances the nostalgia of classic burger flavor
- Garlic powder: Gives rich gently sweet aroma Use fresh or check the best-before date on your spice jar for punchier taste
- Small potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold shape and get buttery inside Avoid green-tinged potatoes for best flavor
- Baby carrots: Sweet and tender right from the bag Always choose carrots with bright color and no dry ends
- Olive oil: Helps the vegetables roast evenly and keeps everything from sticking Look for extra virgin for richer taste
- Salt and pepper: Rounds out the dish Use flaky or kosher salt if possible
- Cheese: Good melty slices like cheddar or American are classic If you want more flavor try smoked gouda
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix and Shape Patties:
- In a large mixing bowl combine hamburger egg seasoning salt and garlic powder Use your hands or a fork to mix just until blended Overmixing makes patties tough Divide into four even portions and gently shape into flat patties about half an inch thick Lay on a plate
- Season and Toss Vegetables:
- Place the sliced potatoes and baby carrots in another large bowl Drizzle with olive oil sprinkle salt and pepper Toss with clean hands until everything is lightly coated and the seasoning is evenly distributed
- Assemble Foil Packets:
- Cut four sheets of heavy duty foil at least twelve by eighteen inches each Spray each with nonstick spray to prevent sticking Spoon one quarter of the vegetable mixture into the middle of each foil square Top each with a raw burger patty
- Seal and Cook:
- Bring the long edges of the foil up over the center then crimp together to make a tight seal Fold in the sides tightly so steam stays inside Place the packets beef side up on a preheated grill at three hundred fifty degrees Cook for thirty five to forty five minutes until potatoes and carrots are fork tender and beef patties reach one hundred sixty degrees I always flip packets after the first twenty minutes so the veggies brown on both sides
- Make It Cheesy:
- Open each packet carefully—watch for escaping steam Top the burger with a slice of cheese Return packets to the grill for two to three minutes just until the cheese melts and oozes down the sides
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Storage Tips
Let any leftover packets cool to room temperature Keep them wrapped in foil and tuck into an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days When ready to eat just pop them in a hot oven foil and all until warmed through The veggies become even more flavorful the next day I like to unwrap leftovers and enjoy them with a fried egg for breakfast
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or plant-based meat for the hamburger if you prefer Go with russet or sweet potatoes to change up the flavor profile Add bell peppers zucchini or sliced onions for extra veggies I sometimes use Swiss cheese for a slight nutty twist
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these packets with a side of classic dill pickles or some ketchup and mustard on the side If you want extra crunch add some toasted buns for a campfire cheeseburger sandwich I love setting out toppings like chopped green onions or barbecue sauce for people to customize their own
Campfire Roots
These hobo packets trace back to old-fashioned scout and camping recipes The idea was to create a hot fresh meal with little equipment right on the coals I grew up making these with my parents who would let us fill our own packets and draw a star with marker so we knew whose was whose It is a tradition that still makes dinner feel like an adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different vegetables with the beef?
Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for variety and extra flavor.
- → What type of ground meat works best?
80% lean ground beef is recommended for juicy patties, but ground turkey or chicken can also be used if preferred.
- → How do I know when the packets are done?
The vegetables should be tender and the beef patties should reach an internal temperature of 160°F before serving.
- → Can these be cooked in the oven?
Absolutely. Arrange the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until the beef is cooked through and veggies are soft.
- → How do I prevent the packets from sticking?
Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray before assembling the ingredients to ensure easy opening and serving.