Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as practical as it is downright delicious, Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets are about to become your new favorite discovery. Imagine the magic of classic meatloaf, crisp baby potatoes, and sweet carrots—all mingling in a steamy, foil-wrapped bundle of flavor, right over open flames or the backyard grill. Each packet bursts with juicy beef, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned veggies, making cleanup a breeze and every bite a moment of pure comfort. Bring these to your next camping trip or spice up a weeknight dinner—they’re so simple, so fun, and loaded with all the best flavors in one tidy package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for these Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets are refreshingly simple, but every item is carefully chosen to build depth and balance. From the rich ground beef to the colorful vegetables and oozy cheddar cheese, each component pulls its weight for a meal that’s both satisfying and seriously flavorful.
- Ground beef (1½ lbs, 85% lean): Offers juicy flavor and enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist while it cooks.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Help bind the mixture and keep your meatloaf tender rather than dense.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as the glue holding your meatloaf together without making it heavy.
- Milk (⅓ cup): Adds moisture, ensuring every bite is soft and not dry.
- Ketchup (¼ cup): Brings a touch of tangy sweetness and classic meatloaf nostalgia.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tsp): Boosts depth and umami for irresistible savory flavor.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Delivers subtle aromatic warmth in every bite.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Infuses the meatloaf with mellow onion flavor that’s never overpowering.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances and brings together all the seasonings.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Rounds out the seasoning with just a hint of heat.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the meatloaf for creaminess and extra flavor.
- Baby potatoes, quartered (2 cups): Get crispy edges and soak up juicy drippings, making them irresistible.
- Baby carrots, halved lengthwise (2 cups): Cook up perfectly tender and add a pop of natural sweetness and color.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Coats the vegetables for caramelized flavor and prevents sticking.
- Additional salt & pepper for vegetables: Ensures the veggies are every bit as delicious as the meatloaf.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds lively color and a fresh herbal note just before serving.
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Essential for easy packet assembly (and even easier cleanup!)
How to Make Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf
Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl and adding the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cheddar cheese. Use clean hands or a fork to blend everything just until combined—overmixing is the only real enemy here, as it can make the meatloaf dense instead of juicy. You’re aiming for a mixture that holds together while still looking a little rustic.
Step 2: Shape and Portion the Loaves
Once your meatloaf mixture is ready, divide it into four evenly sized mounds. Gently form each into a mini loaf shape, each about the size of your palm. Keeping them similar in size ensures even cooking, and mini loaves feel extra special when served up at the table (or campfire!).
Step 3: Prep the Veggies
In a separate bowl, toss the quartered baby potatoes and halved carrots with the olive oil, plus a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. You want each vegetable lightly coated so it gets roasted and flavored to perfection inside the packet.
Step 4: Assemble the Foil Packets
Set out four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil—about 12 inches long apiece for ample room. Place a mini meatloaf in the center of each sheet, then distribute the seasoned potatoes and carrots around each loaf. This nesting method lets the veggies soak up all the savory drippings while keeping everything tidy and self-contained.
Step 5: Seal and Cook
Bring the sides of each foil sheet together over the meatloaf and vegetables, then fold and crimp the edges securely to make a tight seal. If you’re using a campfire or grill, place the packets on medium heat and let them cook for 30–35 minutes, turning occasionally for even roasting. (Or pop them onto a baking sheet in a 400°F oven if you’re staying home.) When you open a test packet, the meatloaf should be cooked through and the veggies fork-tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Carefully open the packets—watch out for the burst of fragrant steam!—and finish with a shower of fresh chopped parsley for that final pop of freshness and color. Dig in while everything’s piping hot!
How to Serve Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley brings an herbal lift and a burst of vibrant green to your Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets. For something extra cozy, you can also add a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce just before serving. Everyone can make their packet their own with their favorite finishing touches!
Side Dishes
Because these packets are already a hearty, all-in-one meal, you really don’t need much on the side. But if you’re feeding a crowd or want to make things extra festive, think about pairing them with a crisp salad, warm dinner rolls, or a side of buttered corn on the cob. They make a fabulous picnic or backyard barbecue centerpiece!
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets directly in their foil packets for a fun, rustic vibe that’s easy on cleanup—perfect for camping or casual outdoor gatherings. For a more elegant touch, slide the meatloaf and veggies onto a plate and add an extra sprinkle of herbs or a dollop of sour cream. You can also let guests open their own packets and enjoy the steamy reveal at the table for maximum effect!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply transfer the cooled packets to airtight containers or reseal them tightly with fresh foil, and store in the coldest part of your fridge. These make hearty lunches or quick second dinners that heat up beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked foil packets for up to 2 months, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for your next camping adventure. Wrap each packet tightly and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking, then prepare as usual. If you have already cooked leftovers, freeze portions in tightly wrapped foil and then in an airtight container.
Reheating
To reheat, place the foil packets (or their contents) in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until everything is hot and the cheese has melted again. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just be sure to transfer everything to a microwave-safe dish first and cover loosely to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for beef in Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets, and they’ll lighten things up a little while still tasting fantastic. You may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra splash of milk to keep the meatloaf moist, since poultry is leaner than beef.
What if I don’t have a campfire or grill?
No fire? No problem! You can bake Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets in a 400°F oven on a baking sheet—they’ll still get that classic roasted flavor, and you’ll love how easily everything comes together with the same comfort-food results.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in slices of onion, bell peppers, or mushrooms to bring more color and flavor to your packets. Just be sure to cut everything to a similar size so it all cooks evenly in the foil.
Are Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets gluten free?
With a simple swap to your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, you can make these packets totally gluten free—just double-check your Worcestershire sauce as well. It’s one of those rare, hearty comfort food dishes that easily accommodates dietary needs.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F, and the juices run clear. The vegetables should be fork-tender as well. Opening a packet to check at the 30-minute mark is a great way to be sure everything is just right!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like unwrapping a piping-hot Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packet and enjoying the aroma and flavor right off the grill—or even your own kitchen oven. It’s the kind of simple, versatile dish you’ll want to share with family and friends, whether you’re gathered by the campfire or cozy at home. Give it a try and watch these easy, flavorful packets become a new repeat favorite!
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Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Campfire Dinner Meatloaf Foil Packets are a perfect solution for a delicious and satisfying meal while camping. Juicy mini meatloaves packed with flavor, surrounded by tender baby potatoes and carrots, all cooked to perfection in individual foil packets over a campfire or grill.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the vegetables:
- 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
- 2 cups baby carrots, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Additional salt and pepper for vegetables
For garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into mini loaves.
- Prepare the vegetables: In another bowl, toss baby potatoes and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the packets: Lay out four large sheets of heavy-duty foil. In the center of each, place a mini meatloaf and a generous helping of vegetables around it. Fold the foil over the food and seal the edges tightly to form packets.
- Cook the packets: Cook over a campfire or grill on medium heat for 30–35 minutes, turning occasionally, until meat is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Carefully open the packets, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- These packets can also be baked in a 400°F oven for the same amount of time.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
