Tasty Hamburger Hobo Packets

These Hamburger Hobo Packets are an easy, flavorful dinner that works great for busy weeknights or camping trips. Using simple ingredients you likely have on hand, you get a complete meal packed in foil with juicy burgers, tender veggies, and plenty of savory seasoning. The beauty lies in its straightforward prep and customizable nature, making it perfect for families or anyone wanting hassle-free cooking with big taste.

I first made these on a camping trip when I needed a meal with minimal gear and maximum flavor. Now they have become a go-to at home and on the road, with everyone asking for them again.

Ingredients

• Ground beef lean: keeps the burgers juicy without excess grease choose 85 percent lean or higher
• Ketchup: adds subtle tomato sweetness and moisture, key for flavor balance
• Worcestershire sauce: provides a mild umami boost without overpowering skip if you prefer
• Assorted seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper combine for a robust yet familiar taste
• Water: a secret trick to keep the burgers tender and moist you won’t want to skip this
• Yukon gold potatoes: creamy texture that holds up well when cooked in foil Russets are a fine substitute but may be fluffier
• Frozen sliced carrots: ease of use speeds up prep, but fresh carrots work too if sliced thinly
• Large sweet onion: adds sweetness and aroma optional depending on preference
• Salted butter: melts into the veggies and burger offering richness and moisture
• Olive oil: helps season and tenderize the vegetables

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Mix the ground beef with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and water in a large bowl until fully combined. This combination forms your flavorful burger base, and the water prevents the meat from drying out during cooking.

Prepare the Vegetables:

In another large bowl, toss the Yukon gold potatoes, frozen sliced carrots, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This step ensures the vegetables are seasoned and will cook tender without steaminess.

Assemble the Packets:

Lay out six sheets of heavy duty foil, about 18 by 12 inches each, and spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly by placing one sixth of it in the center of each foil sheet. Then shape the beef mixture into six patties and place one patty on top of the vegetables in each packet.

Add Aromatics and Butter:

Evenly distribute slices of the large sweet onion over the burger patties. Finish each packet with a tablespoon of salted butter on top to add moisture and flavor as everything cooks.

Seal and Cook:

Fold the foil over the ingredients firmly and crimp the edges to seal tightly, making sure no steam can escape. Preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, aiming for medium low to low heat. Place the foil packets on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the burger internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The vegetables should be tender and the beef cooked through.

Serve:

Carefully remove the packets from the grill they will be very hot. Open them cautiously to avoid steam burns, then serve directly in foil for a rustic, easy to clean presentation.

My favorite part has to be the Yukon gold potatoes that soak up all the buttery, savory juices from the burger and onions while cooking. I remember the first time I made these on a camping trip with friends. We gathered around the fire opening our sizzling packets, and it felt like such a satisfying, cozy meal after a day of hiking.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, remove the cooked meat and vegetables from the foil packets and transfer into a freezer safe bag or container they will keep well for up to three months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner option although cooking times will vary slightly. Use sweet potatoes or baby red potatoes if you want a different texture or flavor. Fresh vegetables like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be swapped in for carrots to change things up.

Serving Suggestions

These packets pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of cornbread. For a cheeseburger twist, add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the burger after cooking, then reseal the packet for a few minutes to melt it. A dollop of sour cream or your preferred sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence.

These hobo packets are a simple, customizable meal perfect for weeknights or campouts. The combo of buttery potatoes and juicy burgers makes them a crowd pleaser.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What makes the burgers so tender?

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

→ Can I adjust the seasonings on the patties?

Absolutely, you can use fewer seasonings or just salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

→ What other vegetables work well in the packets?

Peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, and cauliflower are great alternatives or additions.

→ How can I turn these into cheeseburgers?

After cooking, open the packet, add cheese on top of the burger, reseal, and wait 5 minutes for it to melt.

→ Is it possible to bake these packets instead of grilling?

Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for 30-40 minutes until the beef is cooked through.

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

Reheat in the oven, grill, or microwave (removing foil first) to warm leftovers evenly.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store packets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.