Hobo Dinners
An Easy and Comforting Meal: Hobo Dinners
Imagine a meal that’s as comforting as a warm hug and as convenient as your favorite take-out. Meet Hobo Dinner Foil Packets, a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With tender veggies like potatoes, carrots, and onions, all topped with a seasoned hamburger patty, these packets can be grilled or baked to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that brings back memories of hearty meals prepared with love during busy harvest days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hobo Dinners are not just a meal—they’re an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:
- Convenience: Everything cooks together in a single packet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavor: The seasoned beef and veggies meld together, creating a savory delight.
- Versatility: Perfect for grilling outdoors or baking in the oven.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Pie pan or large sheets of foil
- Knife for slicing vegetables
- Mixing bowl for meat patties
- Oven or grill
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of 85% lean ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 12 red potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch each)
- Asparagus or green beans
- Seasoned salt or garlic salt
- Olive oil
- Optional sauces: BBQ Sauce, Ketchup, or Heinz 57 Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Thinly slice the red potatoes and place them in a pie pan or on a large piece of foil for each serving.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped onions. Mix well and shape into 6 one-inch thick patties.
- Place a meat patty on top of the potatoes in each pan or foil packet.
- Add asparagus or green beans alongside the potatoes and meat.
- Sprinkle generously with seasoned salt or garlic salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes.
- Cover the pans with foil or seal the foil packets tightly.
- Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Serve with your choice of BBQ Sauce, Ketchup, or Heinz 57 Sauce.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly to cook evenly with the meat.
- Sealing the foil tightly helps retain moisture and flavors.
- Test the potatoes with a fork before removing from the oven to ensure they’re tender.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavors.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare these packets in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Can I cook these on the grill?
Absolutely! Place the foil packets on the grill over medium heat and cook for about 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
No worries! You can substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of vinegar for tang.
Conclusion
Hobo Dinner Foil Packets are a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, these packets will impress with their simplicity and taste. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative tweaks you make along the way!
