Imagine sitting around a cozy campfire with friends and family, the warmth of the flames on your face, and the tantalizing aroma of baked potatoes filling the air. This is the magic of campfire baked potatoes, a classic outdoor recipe that brings together simplicity and deliciousness. Originating from the age-old tradition of cooking over an open flame, this recipe is perfect for camping trips, backyard barbecues, or even a fun outdoor cooking experience at home. Let’s dive into this easy and mouth-watering recipe for campfire baked potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and Dry: Start by thoroughly washing the potatoes to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke several holes around each potato to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Step 2: Season and Wrap
- Season: Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the potatoes.
- Wrap in Foil: Wrap each potato individually in heavy-duty aluminum foil. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent any ash or dirt from getting inside.
Step 3: Cooking Over the Campfire
- Prepare the Fire: Build a campfire and let it burn down until you have a bed of hot coals. You can also use a grill grate over the fire if preferred.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the hot coals or on the grill grate. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The potatoes are done when a fork can easily pierce through the center.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Unwrap and Slice: Carefully remove the potatoes from the fire using tongs. Let them cool slightly before unwrapping. Slice each potato open lengthwise.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over each potato. Close the potato slightly to allow the cheese to melt.
- Top with Sour Cream and Green Onions: Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the campfire baked potatoes hot, straight from the foil, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic outdoor treat.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- How to Cook Potatoes in Fire with Foil: For best results, use heavy-duty aluminum foil and double wrap the potatoes if necessary to prevent burning.
- How to Cook Potatoes in Fire Without Foil: If you prefer not to use foil, you can bake the potatoes directly in the hot ashes. Just ensure they are completely covered and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- How Long to Cook Potatoes in Fire: Cooking times can vary depending on the heat of the coals. Generally, it takes about 45-60 minutes, but always check for doneness by piercing with a fork.
Variations
- Loaded Campfire Potatoes: Add additional toppings such as cooked ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños for a loaded version.
- Campfire Potatoes with Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add more bacon or try using different types of cheese like gouda or mozzarella.
- Best Campfire Potatoes: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or chili powder to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
Conclusion
Campfire baked potatoes are more than just a meal; they are an experience. The joy of cooking over an open flame, the rustic charm of enjoying a meal outdoors, and the satisfaction of biting into a perfectly baked potato with all your favorite toppings make this recipe a must-try. So next time you’re planning an outdoor adventure, remember this easy and delicious campfire baked potatoes recipe. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations in the comments below.