Save
Cheeseburger foil packets bring backyard grilling into any camping trip or weeknight routine with almost no cleanup and tons of fun flavor. These easy little bundles keep my family happy outdoors all summer—everyone gets their own perfectly cooked burger and veggies, with gooey cheese melting over the top.
I first whipped these up on a family camping trip when I needed a no-fuss meal. Now it is our essential summer dinner for backyard get-togethers or quick weeknight cookouts.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Thick juicy burger patties are the star For the best result choose a beef blend with a bit of fat
- Steak seasoning: Brings out the burger flavor Look for a blend with salt pepper and a little bit of garlic
- Texas Roadhouse Gold Sauce: Adds a tangy kick that takes it over the top Sub with your favorite burger sauce if needed
- Potatoes: Add substance and get perfectly tender Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for creamy texture
- Onion: Gives a sweet flavor after grilling Choose fresh firm onions for the best crunch
- Baby carrots: Mild and sweet as they roast Snack size carrots fit well and add color
- Olive oil: Keeps the veggies moist Quality extra virgin oil adds subtle flavor
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts smoothly and has a punchy taste Pick a block and grate it yourself for best melt
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Wash and chop the potatoes into cubes so they cook evenly Chop onion into medium pieces Slice baby carrots lengthwise for faster cooking
- Form the Burger Patties:
- Divide ground beef into four equal portions Shape each into a thick patty Aim for about half an inch thick and slightly wider than a regular burger so they remain juicy and reach all corners of the packet
- Assemble the Packets:
- Lay out two layers of heavy duty foil per packet Begin with a layer of chopped potatoes Top with a handful of onions and carrots Drizzle just enough olive oil to coat the veggies Sprinkle with steak seasoning
- Top with Burger and Sauce:
- Set a beef patty on top of the veggies Sprinkle a little more steak seasoning Drizzle a little Texas Roadhouse Gold Sauce or your favorite burger sauce
- Seal Foil Packets:
- Bring the edges of the foil together and fold tightly to make a well sealed pouch Double wrapping helps prevent leaks Make sure all seams are secure to trap steam
- Grill the Packets:
- Heat your grill to medium Place each packet over direct heat Let them cook for twenty to twenty five minutes turning once Halfway through check that the potatoes are soft and beef is cooked through
- Finish with Cheese:
- Carefully open the top of each packet Sprinkle on shredded Colby Jack cheese Put packets back on the grill uncovered for a minute or two to melt the cheese
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slide each meal onto a plate Dress with more sauce as you like Watch kids and adults dig in with big smiles
I always use Colby Jack because it brings just the right meltiness and sharp cheddar notes that my kids adore Nothing beats watching them unwrap their own cheesy packet filled with smoky potatoes at the picnic table
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers to room temperature then transfer to an airtight container These packets will keep in the fridge for three days Reheat in the oven or on the grill right in the foil for convenience If prepping ahead assemble the packets and refrigerate raw up to twenty four hours before grilling
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or a plant based alternative A barbecue sauce or honey mustard can take the place of Texas Roadhouse Gold Sauce Sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes make a colorful and nutrition packed variation Mix up the cheese according to what you have Monterey Jack or shredded pepper jack both work great
Serving Suggestions
Serve straight from the foil for outdoor fun or plate with a crisp salad If you want extra toppings try pickles chopped fresh tomatoes or a little shredded lettuce next to your foil burger These packets partner well with grilled corn or classic potato chips for a true picnic feel
Cultural and Historical Context
Foil packet meals earned their place in American outdoor cooking over decades as a camping and picnic staple They highlight the all in one meal idea that simplifies both prep and cleanup—a real boon for busy families The cheeseburger twist plays right into the love of classic American flavor
Seasonal Adaptations
Use baby zucchini or summer squash if carrots are not at peak in your area Fresh corn kernels can be dotted in each packet during late summer Swap potatoes for thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a fall version
Success Stories
Our last Fourth of July cookout featured these packets and even the picky eaters were happily unwrapping their cheesy burgers Several friends commented they wanted to make these at home because of the flavor and easy cleanup It is one of those recipes that draws everyone together around the grill
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prep the burger packets through step five and stack the uncooked foil packets in the freezer When you want to use them let thaw in the fridge overnight Then grill as usual This makes family camping trips much easier since dinner is already ready to go
Cheeseburger foil packets are a summer dinner staple my family asks for all season. They make backyard grilling or camping so much easier with delicious results every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute other vegetables in these foil packets?
Absolutely! Try bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or corn—just chop them evenly for even cooking.
- → How do I prevent the foil from sticking?
Drizzle olive oil on the base layer and spray or brush the foil lightly before adding ingredients.
- → Can these be cooked in the oven?
Yes, bake sealed foil packets on a tray at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, until beef is fully cooked.
- → What type of ground beef works best?
Opt for 80/20 ground beef for juicy patties that stay moist during grilling or baking.
- → How can I make them ahead?
Assemble packets up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then cook when ready. Add cheese at the end.
- → Is it possible to add more flavor?
Try adding garlic powder, fresh herbs, or a splash of barbecue sauce for added depth.