Easy Campfire Style Simply Potatoes #5FIX
The scent of woodsmoke and sizzling butter always takes me back to family camping trips. We’d spend the day hiking, fishing, or just lounging by the lake, but the highlight was always dinner. My dad, a master of campfire cooking, would whip up the most delicious meals with minimal equipment. One dish, in particular, stands out: his grilled potatoes. It was a simple, rustic recipe, but the smoky flavor imparted by the campfire made it unforgettable. This version, using Simply Potatoes, is an even quicker and easier way to capture that beloved campfire taste, no matter where you are.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Dietary Type: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 2 (20 ounce) bags Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Grill or Oven
Instructions
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Begin by preparing your workspace. Lay out a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil on a flat surface. Generously spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from sticking and burning.
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Open both bags of Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion. Carefully pour the potatoes onto the prepared aluminum foil, spreading them out into an even layer.
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Evenly distribute the butter over the potatoes. Cut the 6 tablespoons of butter into smaller pats or slices for easier distribution. Dotting the potatoes with butter ensures they cook evenly and develop a rich, golden-brown color.
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Carefully fold the edges of the aluminum foil up around the potatoes, creating a pouch. Leave the top open for now.
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Pour the Worcestershire sauce and chicken broth over the potatoes inside the foil pouch. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami depth, while the chicken broth provides moisture to steam the potatoes.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, flavorful topping.
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Now, completely seal the edges of the aluminum foil to create an airtight packet. Ensure that the foil is tightly sealed to trap the steam and heat, which will help cook the potatoes evenly.
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If using a grill, place the sealed foil packet directly on the grill grates over medium heat. Cover the grill and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. If cooking in the oven, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
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Carefully remove the foil packet from the grill or oven. Use caution when opening the packet, as hot steam will escape. Check the potatoes for doneness by piercing them with a fork. They should be soft and easily pierced.
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Gently open the foil packet, being careful of the escaping steam. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the potatoes should be tender.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Maximize Smoky Flavor: For an even more intense smoky flavor on the grill, consider adding a few wood chips (hickory or mesquite work well) to your grill’s smoker box or in a foil pouch directly on the coals.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Vary the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Pre-cook Potatoes: If you’re short on time, you can partially pre-cook the potatoes in the microwave for a few minutes before adding them to the foil packet. This will reduce the grilling/baking time.
- No Grill, No Problem: While grilling imparts the most authentic campfire flavor, the oven is a perfectly acceptable alternative. You can even use a smoker for a similar effect.
- Adding Veggies: Consider adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the foil packet for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve the Easy Campfire Style Simply Potatoes #5FIX immediately while hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, chicken, or fish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Reheating in the oven or skillet will help to maintain a crispier texture compared to microwaving.
This dish is best served fresh, but it can be assembled ahead of time. Prepare the foil packet up to several hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cheese just before cooking to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 136.6 kcal | – |
| Calories from Fat | – | – |
| Total Fat | 13.4 g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g | 42% |
| Cholesterol | 37.7 mg | 12% |
| Sodium | 215.7 mg | 8% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0.6 g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% |
| Sugars | 0.3 g | 1% |
| Protein | 3.8 g | 7% |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheddar cheese alternative. Ensure all substitutes are certified vegan to meet dietary requirements.
- Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Italian Herb Potatoes: Mix in a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, for an herbaceous flavor.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: After cooking, top with sour cream (or vegan sour cream), bacon bits (or vegan bacon bits), and chopped green onions for a loaded baked potato experience.
- Smoked Paprika: For an even more smoky taste, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the potatoes before cooking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use regular diced potatoes instead of Simply Potatoes?
A: While you can use regular diced potatoes, Simply Potatoes are pre-washed and ready to use, saving you time and effort. If using regular potatoes, make sure to peel and dice them before adding them to the foil packet.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are all great additions. Just be sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Q: How do I know when the potatoes are done?
A: The potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and are tender throughout. The cheese should also be melted and bubbly.
Q: Can I make this recipe without aluminum foil?
A: You can use a cast iron skillet with a lid, or a Dutch oven, but it won’t be quite as easy to clean up. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: What is the best way to reheat these potatoes?
A: The best way to reheat these potatoes is in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This will help to maintain a crispier texture. You can also microwave them, but they may become slightly soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Campfire Style Simply Potatoes #5FIX is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, rustic flavors, and the joy of cooking outdoors (or indoors, when the weather doesn’t cooperate!). Whether you’re a seasoned campfire chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or preheat the oven), and get ready to experience a taste of the great outdoors, no matter where you are. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with friends and family. And if you have any tips or tricks of your own, be sure to share them in the comments! Enjoy!
