When it comes to campfire cooking, nothing quite compares to the irresistible combination of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and savory aromatics. Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for your outdoor gatherings, providing a comfort-food experience that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Imagine the sizzling sounds, the mouthwatering aromas, and the pure joy of digging into a steaming foil packet of cheesy goodness – that’s the magic of Cheesy Campfire Potatoes.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cheesy Campfire Potatoes
The beauty of Cheesy Campfire Potatoes lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredient list. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered into ½ inch pieces
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chicken broth
The baby potatoes provide the perfect base, while the onion and garlic add depth of flavor. The butter and olive oil create a rich, craveable texture, and the shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, and a touch of chicken broth keeps the potatoes moist and juicy. By combining these simple yet impactful ingredients, you’ll create a campfire dish that’s sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Campfire Potatoes
Prepare the Foil Packet
The key to cooking Cheesy Campfire Potatoes is the foil packet method. Start by placing two large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (at least 20 inches long) in a crossed pattern on your work surface.
Assemble the Potatoes
In the center of the foil, arrange the halved or quartered baby potatoes and the thinly sliced onion. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then dot the diced butter around the potatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper over everything. Finally, top it all off with a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese.
Add Broth and Seal
Carefully fold the foil sides up to create a “bowl” shape, then pour the chicken broth over the potato mixture. Seal the foil pouch tightly, ensuring no liquid can escape during cooking.
Cook to Perfection
Place the sealed foil packet on a grill set to medium heat (or directly on the hot coals of your campfire) and cook for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Be cautious when opening the packet – the steam will be hot!
Serve and Enjoy
Once the Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are cooked to perfection, you can either open the foil pouch and serve directly from it, or transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. The melted cheese, buttery potatoes, and aromatic herbs will create an irresistible dish that’s sure to be a hit with your outdoor crew.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Campfire Potatoes
To ensure your Cheesy Campfire Potatoes turn out absolutely delicious, consider these helpful tips:
- Potato Perfection: For the best texture, choose baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes. The smaller size ensures even cooking throughout.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: Adjust the cooking time based on the heat source you’re using. If cooking over a grill, the potatoes may cook a bit faster than on a campfire.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend for added flavor complexity.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are not only delicious, but they also provide some nutritional benefits. A single serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 240 calories, 12 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbohydrates, and 8 grams of protein. The potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium. The added cheese provides a boost of calcium, while the garlic and parsley offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Compared to traditional potato dishes, Cheesy Campfire Potatoes offer a more balanced nutritional profile with the addition of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. It’s a satisfying side that can complement a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
Variations and Additions
The beauty of Cheesy Campfire Potatoes is that they serve as a fantastic canvas for customization. Here are some ideas to take your dish to the next level:
- Protein-Packed: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or grilled chicken to the potato mixture.
- Veggie-Loaded: Amp up the nutritional value by incorporating diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped asparagus into the foil packet.
- Spicy Twist: Add a kick of heat by including sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to complement the cheesy flavors.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to personalizing your Cheesy Campfire Potatoes. Have fun with the ingredients and let your creativity shine!
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FAQs about Cheesy Campfire Potatoes
Can I use other types of cheese besides cheddar?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your Cheesy Campfire Potatoes. Options like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack can add unique tastes and textures. For a sharper flavor, try using aged cheddar or even a blue cheese. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they melt properly and blend well with the potatoes.
What should I do if I don’t have heavy-duty aluminum foil?
If you don’t have heavy-duty aluminum foil, you can use regular aluminum foil, but you’ll need to double it to prevent tearing and leaking during cooking. Alternatively, consider using a cast-iron skillet or a grilling basket if you’re cooking over a grill. Just remember to grease the skillet or basket to prevent sticking, and cover it with a lid or another piece of foil to retain moisture while cooking.
How can I make Cheesy Campfire Potatoes spicier?
To add some heat to your Cheesy Campfire Potatoes, consider incorporating spicy elements such as jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the mix. You can also experiment with spicy cheese varieties like pepper jack. Additionally, adding spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile and give it a nice kick. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheesy Campfire Potatoes?
Cheesy Campfire Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the cob, complement the cheesy potatoes well. You might also consider serving a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. If you want a protein option, consider grilled chicken, sausages, or veggie burgers, which can round out the meal for a satisfying outdoor feast.
Conclusion
Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are the ultimate outdoor cooking delight. With their irresistible blend of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is sure to become a crowd-pleaser at your next campfire gathering or backyard barbecue. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and customize to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your friends, fire up the grill or campfire, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate cheesy, buttery, and comforting side dish – Cheesy Campfire Potatoes.
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Discover the Best Cheesy Campfire Potatoes Recipe Today!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for your outdoor gatherings, providing a comfort-food experience that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoon butter, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
1. Prepare the Foil Packet: Start by placing two large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil (at least 20 inches long) in a crossed pattern on your work surface.
2. Assemble the Potatoes: In the center of the foil, arrange the halved or quartered baby potatoes and the thinly sliced onion. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then dot the diced butter around the potatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper over everything. Finally, top it all off with a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Add Broth and Seal: Carefully fold the foil sides up to create a “bowl” shape, then pour the chicken broth over the potato mixture. Seal the foil pouch tightly, ensuring no liquid can escape during cooking.
4. Cook to Perfection: Place the sealed foil packet on a grill set to medium heat (or directly on the hot coals of your campfire) and cook for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Be cautious when opening the packet – the steam will be hot!
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the Cheesy Campfire Potatoes are cooked to perfection, you can either open the foil pouch and serve directly from it, or transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. The melted cheese, buttery potatoes, and aromatic herbs will create an irresistible dish that’s sure to be a hit with your outdoor crew.
Notes
To ensure your Cheesy Campfire Potatoes turn out absolutely delicious, consider these helpful tips:
– For the best texture, choose baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes. The smaller size ensures even cooking throughout.
– Adjust the cooking time based on the heat source you’re using. If cooking over a grill, the potatoes may cook a bit faster than on a campfire.
– While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend for added flavor complexity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg