Name: Campfire Potatoes Are The Cheesy Side We Crave On Camping Trips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 1/2 cup diced yellow onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When I head out into the wilderness, there is one dish that always finds its way into my pack: Campfire Potatoes Are The Cheesy Side We Crave On Camping Trips. This recipe is pure magic because it transforms simple ingredients into a smoky, gooey, and utterly satisfying side dish. The best part is that Campfire Potatoes Are The Cheesy Side We Crave On Camping Trips because they cook in a foil packet right over the coals, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. I love how the potatoes get tender and the cheese gets bubbly, creating a crust that is irresistible. Whether you are a seasoned camper or a beginner, this recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients

4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

First, I prepare a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 18 inches long. I spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, I layer the sliced potatoes in the center of the foil, overlapping them slightly to create an even bed. I sprinkle the minced garlic and diced onion evenly over the potatoes. Next, I dot the butter pieces across the top, followed by the crumbled bacon. I season everything with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Finally, I cover the entire mixture generously with the shredded cheddar cheese.

I carefully fold the foil into a sealed packet, leaving a little room for steam to expand. I place the packet directly on the hot coals of a campfire or on a grill grate over medium heat. I cook it for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning the packet once halfway through. When I open the foil, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender. I garnish with fresh chives before serving directly from the foil.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish. The prep time is about 10 minutes, and the cook time is 25 minutes, for a total time of 35 minutes. It is perfect for a quick campfire meal.

Variations

I often swap the cheddar for a smoky gouda or a spicy pepper jack to change the flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, I omit the bacon and add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers. If I want a touch of heat, I sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also add a layer of cooked sausage or pulled pork for a heartier meal. The beauty of this dish is its versatility.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the foil packet back over a campfire or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. You can also reheat in a skillet on the stovetop until the cheese is melted again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use russet or red potatoes. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.

Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes?

No, the potatoes cook perfectly in the foil packet over the campfire. The steam from the butter and cheese helps them become tender.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Absolutely. Assemble the foil packet and bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes.

What if I don’t have heavy-duty foil?

Use two layers of regular aluminum foil to prevent tearing.

How do I avoid burning the packet?

Keep the packet over medium heat, not directly in the flames. Turn it once halfway through cooking.

Conclusion

I can honestly say that Campfire Potatoes Are The Cheesy Side We Crave On Camping Trips, and this recipe has become a staple in my outdoor cooking repertoire. The combination of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors is simply unbeatable. I hope you try this recipe on your next adventure and create your own delicious memories around the fire. For more campfire inspiration, check out my Campfire Chicken and Rice or my Campfire S’mores Dip. For more on the history of campfire cooking, see this Wikipedia article. And to learn about the potatoes I use, check out Yukon Gold potatoes on Wikipedia.