Baking potatoes over a campfire? It’s as delicious and simple as it sounds! Campfire baked potatoes are a camping classic—a warm, smoky treat that’s easy to prepare, filling, and versatile. Imagine pulling a soft, flavorful potato out of the coals and dressing it up with your favorite toppings. Hungry yet? Let’s dive into how you can create this perfect outdoor side dish on your next adventure!
Why Campfire Baked Potatoes?
Potatoes might just be the ultimate camping food. Not only are they budget-friendly and easy to pack, but they’re also packed with energy-sustaining carbs that will keep you fueled for hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing around the fire. The best part? The flavor possibilities are endless, from classic butter and salt to loaded options with cheese, bacon, and chives. All you need is a few ingredients and a little bit of campfire magic!
Ingredients
Get ready to wow your campmates with these simple, delicious ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (or adjust based on group size)
- Olive oil (or butter for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Aluminum foil
- Toppings of your choice (cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, bacon bits, etc.)
Steps for the Perfect Campfire Baked Potato
1. Prepare the Campfire
Build a fire with a steady bed of hot coals. You don’t want roaring flames for this recipe; the goal is a stable heat source where the potatoes can cook slowly.
2. Prep Your Potatoes
Rinse and dry the potatoes, then poke a few holes in each to let steam escape. Rub them with olive oil (or butter if you prefer a richer taste) and sprinkle with salt and pepper for added flavor.
3. Wrap Them Up
Wrap each potato tightly in a double layer of aluminum foil. This will protect them from burning and allow them to cook evenly.
4. Place in the Coals
Nestle the foil-wrapped potatoes directly in the hot coals around the edges of the fire. Try to rotate them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your potatoes, they’ll take about 45-60 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke through the foil with a fork.
5. Dress Them Up
Carefully remove the potatoes from the coals, unwrapping them with caution (they’ll be hot!). Slice them open and let the fun begin—top with your favorite ingredients, from classic butter and cheese to spicy jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy the Campfire Flavor
There’s nothing like the taste of a potato cooked over an open flame—it’s smoky, satisfying, and a bit of rustic perfection. Campfire baked potatoes make an ideal side dish, but they’re also filling enough to be the main event. Try them on your next camping trip, and don’t forget to experiment with toppings to find your perfect flavor combo.
Looking for more campfire cooking tips? Contact us for all the gear and accessories you’ll need for your outdoor cooking setup.
