Tasty Hamburger Hobo Packets

This easy and flavorful dinner idea combines ground beef and vegetables packed into foil for a fun and convenient meal. Hamburger Hobo Packets are perfect for busy weeknights or an outdoor cookout, and they even make a great camping dish with minimal cleanup. The mix of juicy burger patties and tender potatoes with carrots creates a simple, comforting dish that almost everyone loves.

I first tried this on a weekend camping trip and since then it has become a go to meal my whole family requests. The packets lock in moisture and flavor so every bite is juicy and delicious.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: lean beef reduces excess grease and keeps the burger juicy without being too greasy
• Ketchup: adds a subtle tangy sweetness and enhances the beefs flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: provides depth of flavor without overpowering skip if preferred
• Assorted seasonings: onion powder garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper build a savory flavor profile
• Water: the secret ingredient that keeps the beef tender and moist
• Yukon gold potatoes: creamy texture that holds up well in foil cooking choose firm potatoes without blemishes
• Frozen sliced carrots: quick to use and easy to layer in the packets fresh carrots are fine but take longer to soften
• Large sweet onion: adds sweetness and aroma can be left out if you dont enjoy onions
• Salted butter: melts into the veggies and beef adding richness and moisture
• Olive oil: used to coat the veggies for even roasting and flavor enhancement

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

No stovetop sautéing needed here but make sure your onions are sliced thin so they cook evenly in the foil packets

Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:

In a large bowl combine the ground beef ketchup Worcestershire sauce onion powder garlic powder salt smoked paprika black pepper and water. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but do not overwork to avoid tough burgers

Mix the Vegetables:

In another bowl toss the Yukon gold potatoes frozen sliced carrots olive oil garlic powder salt and pepper until everything is evenly coated

Assemble the Foil Packets:

Lay out six sheets of heavy duty aluminum foil about 18 by 12 inches each. Lightly spray or brush with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place one sixth of the vegetable mixture in the center of each foil sheet

Shape the Burgers and Layer in Packets:

Divide the ground beef mixture into six equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty and place on top of the veggies in each foil sheet. Top patties with evenly distributed onion slices and then place one tablespoon of salted butter on each packet

Seal the Packets:

Fold up the sides of the foil securely and crimp tightly to ensure no air or steam escapes during cooking

Cook on the Grill:

Preheat grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit maintaining medium low to low heat. Use an oven thermometer if possible to regulate temperature. Place foil packets on the grill close lid and cook for about 30 to 40 minutes until burgers reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit and vegetables are tender

Remove and Serve:

Carefully take packets off the grill using tongs or gloves as they will be hot. Open carefully to avoid steam burns and enjoy immediate serving

My favorite ingredient is the Yukon gold potatoes. Their creamy texture is a perfect contrast to the juicy burger and tender carrots. One summer we brought these packets camping and sitting around the campfire eating directly out of the foil made the meal feel special and cozy for the entire family.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover packets in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them longer wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. When reheating from frozen use an oven or grill for best results to keep the foil intact and heat even. Avoid microwaving in foil but you can remove contents and microwave loosely covered.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option but may need extra seasoning since they tend to be milder. Russet potatoes are a good alternative but may be less creamy and slightly fluffier after cooking. Any similar sturdy vegetables such as bell peppers zucchini or mushrooms can be added or swapped based on preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve foil packets with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a complete meal. Add cheese after cooking by opening foil and sprinkling grated cheddar or pepper jack then reseal and wait five minutes for it to melt. Try serving with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting side.

These hamburger hobo packets are an easy customizable meal for weeknights or camping. Seal tightly and use a thermometer for best results.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What is the key to making tender ground beef patties?

Adding a bit of water to the ground beef mixture helps keep the patties moist and tender during cooking.

→ Can I customize the vegetables in the packets?

Yes, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, squash, broccoli, or cauliflower can be used to suit your taste preferences.

→ How do I add cheese to the packets?

After cooking, open the foil carefully, place cheese on the patties, then reseal and wait 5 minutes for melting.

→ Is it possible to cook these packets in the oven?

Absolutely, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the packets for 30-40 minutes until juicy and cooked through.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftover packets?

Use the oven, grill, or microwave (foil removed) to reheat leftovers until warmed through.

→ How should I store leftover hobo packets?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.