Hobo Dinners: The Oven Version
You've probably had these at Scout camp. Hamburger patties and assorted vegetables wrapped in foil then buried in the hot coals. I remember these from my childhood, but at home we made them in the oven. It's just as good with some differences: The onions don't carmelize as over a campfire, and the potatoes don't crisp up. However, it's still a quick and tasty dish on a cold winter night. And no pots to wash!
The ingredients listed are the usual that go into these dinners, but please feel free to "gild the lily" with you own embellishments. Also, notice there are no absolute amounts. Adjust ingredient amounts to the number of servings and peoples' preferences. Some may like more or less potatoes, onions, veggies, etc.
One suggestion: Have all your ingredients laid out on the counter then have each person fill the foil with whatever they like. Season to taste, wrap and bake.
Ingredients:
- Lean ground beef. Enough to make 4 oz. patties per person
Note: You may use ground turkey, lamb, or boneless chicken breasts in place of beef. Fish and shellfish will work, too, but adjust baking time to avoid overcooking.
- Onion slices – one or two slices per person
- Sliced potatoes – I use one-half to one whole potato per person, depending on how big the potatoes are.
- Canned mushrooms (stems and pieces) – Enough for a handful per person.
- Tomatoes (fresh or canned), slices or wedges. I allow one per person.
- Frozen mixed vegetables OR peas & carrots
- Assorted seasonings: Salt, pepper, Worchestershire sauce, soy sauce, hot sauce, chopped garlic, herbs, etc.
- Heavy duty foil
Procedure:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Get out a baking sheet big enough to accommodate the dinner packets.
Brown meat patties 2 minutes on each side. Remove from pan then set aside. Roll off a large sheet of foil. You will need enough room inside to keep juices in and thoroughly cook the dinner.
Place meat patty in center of foil. Add onion and potato slices, mushrooms, tomato slice, and 1/2 cup mixed vegetables. If using canned tomatoes, drizzle some of the juice over the dinner. Season to taste and preference (salt, pepper, Worchestershire, hot sauce, garlic. herbs, etc.).
Wrap carefully and securely, sealing packet well. I use the "Drug store" wrap: Bring up long sides and roll down tightly, then roll in ends. Place packets on baking sheet. Bake in oven for 45 to 50 minutes on until potatoes are tender. Carefully open packet – It's hot! – and enjoy!
Pass additional condiments if desired: Steak sauce, catsup, hot sauce, etc. This dinner is great with fresh hot bread or rolls.
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