Cheesy Bacon Potato Foil Packets Recipe
Explore the delightful world of cheesy bacon potato foil packets, a deliciously easy recipe that combines savory bacon with tender potatoes and melted cheese, perfect for any meal occasion. These packets are effortlessly prepared in a foil wrap, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Ready in just under an hour, they’re guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving a comforting dish.
The inspiration for these foil packets comes from a cherished summer camping trip. I remember sitting around the campfire, the crackling of burning wood providing a soothing soundtrack as the sun set over the mountains. My grandmother, always resourceful, wrapped up this delightful combination of potatoes, bacon, and cheese in foil, cooking it over the open flame. The aroma was irresistible, and from the first bite, I was hooked. This recipe has since become a staple in our family gatherings, bringing nostalgic warmth and community spirit to our kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone wanting a quick, delicious meal with minimal cleanup. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with the crispy bacon complementing the creamy cheese and earthy potatoes.
- Simple and Quick: Prepared and cooked within an hour, this is perfect for last-minute meals.
- No-Mess Cooking: The foil packets ensure easy cleanup and hassle-free cooking.
- Versatile: Perfect for camping, barbecues, or indoor cooking, adapting to any heat source.
Ingredients Notes
Gather fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. The combination of flavors in this recipe relies on the quality of each item.
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture. Sliced thinly for quick cooking.
- Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well, offering a rich flavor that melts beautifully.
- Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon; its robust flavor and texture complement the potatoes and cheese.
- Seasoning: Simple additions like garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhance the dish without overpowering it.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven or grill to 400°F (200°C). Prepare all your ingredients by slicing the potatoes thinly and shredding the cheese.
Step 2
Lay out sheets of aluminum foil (approximately 12×12 inches for each packet). Lightly coat the center of each with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
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Step 3
In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated. Distribute them evenly amongst the foil sheets.
Step 4
Add sliced bacon on top of the potatoes in each packet. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Fold the foil over the ingredients, sealing the edges tightly to create a packet.
Step 5
Place packets directly onto the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Carefully open each packet and return to heat just long enough to crisp up the bacon and brown the cheese. Serve hot.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, let the packets cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop the packets back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. For freezing, wrap the foil packets securely in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
Customizing these foil packets is easy whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply craving a new flavor profile. For a lighter version, swap the bacon for turkey bacon or omit the cheese for a dairy-free option. Vegetarians can load up on veggies like bell peppers and onions. If you’re looking to add a kick of heat, include jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare these packets in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them ideal for meal prep or preparing for a busy day. Just ensure they’re tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Q: Is it possible to cook these packets over a campfire?
A: Yes, that’s one of the great things about this recipe. Cooking them on hot coals will give a smoky flavor that’s quite authentic. You need to ensure the packets are tightly sealed and occasionally rotated to avoid burning.
Q: What can I do if I don’t have foil?
A: If you run out of foil, you can use a large cast iron skillet or an oven-safe dish with a lid. This won’t offer the same steamed effect as foil but will still result in delicious, roasted potatoes and toppings.
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Cheesy Bacon Potato Foil Packets Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 pound bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
- Divide the potato mixture evenly among four foil pieces. Top with bacon and cheese.
- Fold the foil over the potatoes to seal packets.
- Place packets on the grill. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove from the grill and carefully open packets. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
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