Ah, the beauty of cooking over an open flame! There’s something uniquely satisfying about gathering around a campfire, roasting marshmallows, and whipping up a dish that not only tastes great but brings everyone together. One of my absolute favorite campfire recipes is what I fondly call “Campfire Potatoes.” Picture this: perfectly tender potatoes slathered in olive oil and spices, then sprinkled with oozing melted cheese, all cooked to perfection in handy foil packets. It’s a classic that never fails to impress!
These Campfire Potatoes have been a staple for me during many camping trips, often accompanied by laughter and some epic campfire ghost stories. If you’ve ever tried to smash a raw potato with your foot while waiting for the fire to heat up (don’t ask how I know), you’ll appreciate how easy these foil packets make cooking outdoors. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – just toss the foil and you can focus on roasting those marshmallows!
What’s in Campfire Potatoes?
Here’s a quick look at what makes these potatoes so delicious:
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold or Red potatoes for their creamy texture. Slicing them into relatively thin pieces ensures they cook evenly and absorb all those yummy flavors.
Olive Oil: This is essential for adding moisture and helping the spices stick. I usually stick with extra virgin olive oil; it has a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These are my go-to spices for that aromatic base. They’re easy to use and pack a flavorful punch without any chopping!
Paprika: A sprinkle of this adds a nice warm color and a hint of smokiness. If you’re a fan of heat, go ahead and add a bit more!
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese combo makes this dish irresistible. I like to use a mix for a robust flavor.
Grated Parmesan: A little sprinkle on top before serving adds a lovely salty bite and completes the cheesy goodness.
Parsley: This is purely for garnish, but fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds color. Plus, it makes me feel like a professional chef for a moment!
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but these give a delightful kick. Great if you like things spicy!
Aluminum Foil: A camping essential, this keeps everything neatly contained while cooking!
Is Campfire Potatoes Good for You?
You might be wondering – are these Campfire Potatoes nutritious? Well, let’s break it down.
Potatoes: They’re a fantastic source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a filling choice. Just be mindful of portion sizes and those toppings!
Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, olive oil supports heart health. Just try not to go overboard; a good drizzle goes a long way.
Cheese: While delicious, cheese can add extra calories and saturated fat. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your dietary preferences.
Overall, this dish strikes a nice balance by being a delicious treat you can feel good about—especially when enjoyed in the great outdoors!
Ingredients
– 4 medium Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Aluminum foil
**Servings:** This recipe serves around 4 people, depending on how hungry everyone is after a day of adventures!
How to Make Campfire Potatoes?
1. Preheat your campfire or grill to medium-high heat. Just get that fire crackling!
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. The potatoes should feel nice and slippery with oil and spices.
3. Cut large sheets of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long, and place an even layer of the seasoned potatoes in the center of each sheet.
4. Fold the foil over the potatoes, sealing them tightly to create a packet. Make sure there are no openings for steam to escape. Double fold the edges for a secure seal!
5. Place the foil packets directly onto the campfire grill or hot coals. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in easily!
6. Carefully remove the packets from the heat and open them – watch out for that steam, it’s hot!
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the potatoes and close the packets again for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
8. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy that melty goodness!
Serving Suggestions: Campfire Potato Perfection
Want to elevate your Campfire Potatoes? Here are some fun ideas:
– **Mix-Ins:** Feel free to add in veggies like bell peppers, onions, or even diced ham for a heartier meal.
– **Herbs:** Thyme or rosemary can add a lovely earthy flavor. Just toss in a few sprigs for something extra special.
– **Dips:** Serve these alongside sour cream, ranch dressing, or homemade salsa for dipping. The options are endless!
So, there you have it! Campfire Potatoes are not only super easy to make but also a fantastic way to bond over good food. I hope you’ll try making them on your next camping adventure – trust me, your friends will be begging for more! And if you do make them, please share your experience. I’d love to hear all your campfire stories! Happy cooking!
