campfire baked potatoes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best campfire baked potatoes recipe

I’ve always been a fan of campfire baked potatoes. There’s something about the simplicity of this dish that just feels right. The combination of a fluffy potato, some savory toppings, and the warmth of the campfire is just perfect. I first discovered this recipe on a family camping trip when my kids were younger.

We’d spend hours roasting potatoes over the fire, and it was always a hit with the kids. As we got older, the recipe evolved to include more toppings and flavors, but the core idea remained the same. The history of campfire baked potatoes is a bit murky, but I think it’s safe to say that it’s an American classic. The idea of cooking over an open flame has been around for centuries, but the modern version of this dish is likely a result of 19th-century cowboy cuisine.

One thing that I love about campfire baked potatoes is how easy they are to make. Simply scrub some potatoes clean, poke them with a fork to allow steam to escape, and then wrap them in foil. You can cook them directly over the flames or in a Dutch oven. It’s really up to you!

But what really makes campfire baked potatoes special is the experience itself. There’s something about cooking over an open flame that just feels more connected to nature than traditional cooking methods do. And when you add in the fact that you’re surrounded by loved ones and good food, it’s just magic. The technique behind campfire baked potatoes is actually quite simple.

You want to cook your potatoes until they’re tender all the way through, but still slightly firm on the outside. This takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of your potatoes and how hot your fire is. I’ve found that using a Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly and prevents hot spots from developing.

Campfire Baked Potatoes

4.5 from 740 votes

This classic campfire baked potatoes recipe is perfect for outdoor cooking. The potatoes are wrapped in foil and cooked directly on the campfire coals, resulting in a delicious, smoky flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

4 large baking potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
optional toppings: sour cream, chives, shredded cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Prepare the campfire by building a fire and allowing it to burn down to hot coals.
2This process takes approximately 30 minutes.
3Ensure the coals are evenly spread and hot to the touch, but not flaming.
4While the fire is burning down, clean the potatoes thoroughly under cold water.
5Pat them dry with a towel.
6Poke each potato several times with a fork, ensuring the fork penetrates about 1/2 inch deep.
7This allows steam to escape while cooking, preventing the potatoes from exploding.
8Rub the potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
9Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
10Wrap each potato individually in a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, making sure the foil is tightly sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
11Place the wrapped potatoes directly on the hot coals, using tongs for safety.
12Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
13The potatoes are done when they are soft and can be easily squeezed, and the internal temperature reaches 210°F (93°C).
14Carefully remove the potatoes from the coals using tongs, and place them on a flat surface to cool slightly.
15Allow them to rest for 5 minutes before unraveling the foil.
16Unwrap the foil carefully, as steam will escape.
17Serve the potatoes hot, with your choice of toppings such as sour cream, chives, or shredded cheese.

🔧Equipment

Campfire
Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, add herbs or garlic to the olive oil before rubbing it on the potatoes. Ensure the coals are hot enough to cook the potatoes evenly. Be cautious when handling hot potatoes and foil.

Campfire baked potatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. They are easy to prepare and cook, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings, camping trips, or even a simple backyard barbecue.

Plus, they’re a healthy option that the whole family will love. Next time you’re planning an outdoor meal, give this recipe a try.

You won’t be disappointed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Campfire Baked Potatoes

Q: What kind of potatoes are best for campfire baked potatoes?

C: For this recipe, you want to use high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?

C: Yes! You can use any type of potato you like, but keep in mind that they’ll have different textures and flavors.

Q: How long does it take to cook potatoes over a campfire?

C: Cooking time will depend on the size and number of your potatoes, as well as how hot your fire is.

Q: What if my fire isn’t hot enough?

C: If your fire isn’t producing enough heat, try moving your Dutch oven closer to the flames or adding more wood.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

C: While you can prepare your toppings ahead of time, it’s best to cook your potatoes fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Similar Posts