Nothing says outdoor comfort food quite like a steaming packet of buttery campfire potatoes. Lori’s Campfire Potatoes are a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish made with tender sliced potatoes, onions, butter, seasonings, and melted cheese, all wrapped in foil and cooked over glowing campfire coals or on the grill. This recipe is a camping favorite because it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers rich, satisfying flavor every time.Whether you’re gathered around a campsite, hosting a backyard barbecue, or preparing dinner on the grill, these foil packet potatoes pair beautifully with grilled steaks, burgers, chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Lori’s Campfire Potatoes:
The potatoes become perfectly tender while soaking up the buttery herbs and smoky campfire aroma that makes outdoor cooking so special.One of the best things about Lori’s Campfire Potatoes is their versatility. You can customize them with bacon, peppers, mushrooms, garlic, fresh herbs, or different cheeses to create a side dish everyone will love. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for families, campers, and anyone who enjoys rustic outdoor meals.
History:
Foil packet cooking became popular in North America during the mid-20th century as camping and outdoor recreation grew in popularity. Wrapping ingredients in aluminum foil allowed campers to cook meals directly over campfires without needing multiple pots or pans.
Campfire potatoes quickly became a staple because potatoes are inexpensive, filling, easy to transport, and cook beautifully inside foil packets. Over time, families created their own signature versions, and Lori’s Campfire Potatoes became known as a comforting combination of butter, onions, cheese, and simple seasonings that continue to delight campers today.
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Lori's Campfire Potatoes – The Ultimate Cheesy Foil Packet Campfire Potato Recipe
Ingredients
- 2½ pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your campfire to medium-hot coals or preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cut a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, onions, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Place the potato mixture in the center of the foil.
- Top with pieces of butter and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold the foil tightly into a sealed packet to keep steam inside.
- Cook over campfire coals or on the grill for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Heavy-duty foil prevents tearing over hot coals.
- Yukon Gold potatoes provide a naturally buttery flavor.
- Add bacon for extra richness.
- Rotate the packet occasionally for even cooking.
- Open the foil carefully to avoid steam burns.
- Fresh herbs add a bright finishing touch.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Tips for Campfire Potatoes:
- Use a mandoline slicer for thin, even potato slices.
- Double-wrap the foil if cooking directly on campfire coals.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more vegetables.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
- Test the potatoes with a fork before serving.
- Let the packet rest for 5 minutes before opening.
- Serve with sour cream, green onions, or hot sauce.
FAQs for Campfire Potatoes:
1. Can I bake these in the oven?
Yes. Bake the sealed foil packet at 400°F (200°C) for about 45–50 minutes.
2. Which potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are both excellent choices because they become tender and flavorful.
3. Can I prepare the packets ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the foil packets up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. The base recipe is vegetarian. Simply ensure the cheese used is suitable for your dietary preferences.
5. What meats pair well with these potatoes?
They pair perfectly with grilled steak, burgers, chicken, pork chops, sausages, and fish.
6. How do I know when they’re done?
The potatoes should be fork-tender and the onions soft and translucent.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
8. Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, corn, and carrots all cook well in the foil packet.
Conclusion:
Lori’s Campfire Potatoes are a classic camping side dish that combines tender potatoes, sweet onions, rich butter, savory seasonings, and gooey melted cheese into one delicious foil packet meal. Easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for campfires, grills, or ovens, this recipe delivers comforting flavors with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re enjoying a weekend camping adventure or a backyard barbecue, these cheesy campfire potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.