Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (2024)

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Experience camping bliss with our easy Foil Packet Nachos! Quick, cheesy, and delicious, the perfect outdoor treat around the campfire.

Making nachos while camping has never been easier with this simple foil packet nachos recipe.

I love trying a new recipe when we are camping. Sometimes they turn out great and sometimes, not so much.

Our Pie Iron Recipes always turn out great!

Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, filling entree, or side dish, these foil packet nachos are sure to impress.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (1)

With just a few basic ingredients and a grill or campfire, you can enjoy a crowd-pleasing meal that is eco-friendly and mess-free.

Let’s dive into why foil packet nachos are perfect for your next camping trip.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Foil packs nachos are a convenient and versatile camping recipe or easy weeknight dinner.
  • They can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
  • Using regular aluminum foil or non-stick foils, it eliminates the need for plates and utensils.
  • Cooking the nachos in foil packets ensures easy clean-up.
  • Freezing the nacho ingredients ahead of time is a great option for longer camping trips.
  • Clean up is easy.
  • Perfect for game night.
Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (2)

Prep: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

What You Will Need for Homemade Nachos

  • Tortilla chips
  • Shredded or chopped cooked chicken
  • Taco sauce
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For serving

  • chopped cilantro
  • diced tomatoes
  • diced onion
  • sliced jalapenos
  • avocado
  • sour cream

For exact measurements, please see the printable recipe card below.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (3)

How to Make Easy Campfire Nachos

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken and taco sauce. Stir to combine and heat for 5 to 8 minutes or until the chicken has heated through.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (4)

Cut aluminum foil into squares or use foil sheets.

Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Divide tortilla chips between several foil squares. This is the base of your nachos.

Top the chips with cheese and the chicken mixture. Fold the longer edges of the foil over the chip and chicken creating a pocket.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (5)

Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (6)

How to Make Foil Packets for Grilling

Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill over the hot coals and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese melts.

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (7)

​Add sour cream on top of the nachos after they are done.

How Long do you Keep Foil Packets in the Oven?

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Place the foil packets on a large-rimmed baking sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.

To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl.

Carefully open the foil packets.

Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired.

Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

Choosing Your Ingredients for Foil Pack Nachos

The great thing about foil packet nachos is that you have complete control over the ingredients.

You can customize them to your liking and choose toppings that suit your taste preferences.

Here are some key ingredient categories to consider when making foil packet nachos:

  • Tortilla Chips: Choose your favorite brand or opt for homemade tortilla chips for a fresh and crispy base.
  • Cheese: Pick a melty cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend, and grate it yourself for the best flavor.
  • Protein: Add some protein to your nachos with options like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Veggies: Amp up the nutrition and flavor with a variety of colorful veggies such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, bell peppers, and red onions.
  • Sauce: Don’t forget the sauce! Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce are all great options to drizzle or dollop on top.
  • Seasonings: Sprinkle on some extra flavor with seasonings like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, or taco seasoning.

Printable Recipe Card and Nutrition Information

Yield: 6

Foil Pack Chicken Nachos Recipe

Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (8)

Experience camping bliss with our easy Foil Packet Nachos! Quick, cheesy, and delicious, the perfect outdoor treat around the campfire.

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time15 minutes

Total Time30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 bag tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
  • ½ cup taco sauce
  • 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack

For serving:

  • chopped cilantro
  • diced tomatoes
  • diced onion
  • sliced jalapeno
  • avocado
  • sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken and taco sauce. Stir to combine and heat for 5 to 8 minutes or until the chicken has heated through.
  2. Cut aluminum foil into squares.
  3. In the middle of the square, place a mound of tortilla chips. Top the chips with cheese and chicken. Fold the aluminum foil over the chip and chicken creating a pocket. Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.
  4. For grilling: Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese has melted.
  5. For the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the foil packets on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.
  6. To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl. Carefully open the foil packets. Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired. Foil Packet Nachos Recipe | Life in The RV (9)

Notes

Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 685Total Fat: 46gSaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 897mgCarbohydrates: 34gFiber: 5gSugar: 4gProtein: 35g

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Heat Resistant Gloves for Safety

When cooking foil packet nachos over a campfire or grill, it’s essential to prioritize safety. The heat from the fire or grill can be intense, and using proper protective gear is crucial.

  • Invest in a pair of heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from burns.
  • Ensure that the gloves are specifically designed for high heat situations.
  • Wearing heat-resistant gloves will allow you to handle the hot foil packets safely and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.

By having the right essentials such as aluminum foil and heat-resistant gloves, you’ll be well-prepared to make delicious and safe foil packet nachos during your camping trip.

Creative Combos for Your Nachos

Now it’s time to get creative with your foil packet nachos! Toppings are what take nachos to the next level, and the possibilities are endless. Here are some delicious flavor combinations to inspire you:

  • Classic Nacho Recipe:Top your nachos with gooey melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, black beans, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. Finish it off with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced jalapenos for some heat.
  • Loaded Veggie Nachos:For a healthier twist, pile on the vegetables! Add roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, black olives, and chopped spinach to your nachos. Don’t forget the top layer of cheese and a drizzle of tangy salsa.
  • BBQ Chicken Nachos:Shred some cooked chicken and toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Spread the saucy chicken over corn tortilla chips and top with shredded cheddar cheese, red onions, and fresh cilantro. For an extra burst of flavor, add sliced pickled jalapenos.
  • Spicy Buffalo Nachos:Combine cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce with crumbled blue cheese and diced celery. Spread this flavorful mixture over your nachos and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
  • Loaded Guacamole Nachos:Mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and garlic powder to make a creamy guacamole. Spread the guacamole over your nachos and top with diced tomatoes, red onions, sliced black olives, and crumbled queso fresco. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your nachos!

The Ultimate Foil Packet Nachos Recipe

Now it’s time for the ultimate foil packet nachos recipe! Follow these steps for delicious nachos every time:

Layering Your Tasty Nachos for Maximum Flavor

When it comes to creating the perfect foil packet nachos, layering is key. Start with a base layer of tortilla chips right in the center of the foil, then add a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the bottom chips. Next, layer on your favorite toppings such as cooked ground beef mixture or flavorful chicken, diced tomatoes with green chiles, sliced jalapenos, and black olives. Repeat the layers until all your ingredients are used, finishing with a final sprinkle of cheese on top.

Tips for Cooking Over a Campfire or Grill

Cooking your foil nacho packets over a campfire or grill is a breeze. Simply place packets directly on the grill grates or on a grill pan over the campfire. Close the lid to trap the heat and allow the ingredients to melt and meld together.

Cook for about 8-10 minutes over medium direct heat, or until the cheese is fully melted and the nachos are heated through.

Keep a close eye on the packets to avoid burning.

You can use tinfoil packets, large pieces of foil, a sheet of aluminum foil, or even foil pie pans.

Make a nacho bar with a variety of toppings and let everyone make their own nachos.

More Favorite Nacho Toppings Ideas:

Add any of these extras to the top of your nachos.

  • Red onion
  • Refried beans
  • Taco meat
  • Green onions
  • Pico de gallo
  • Jalapeno peppers
  • Different cheeses
  • Ground turkey
  • Sweet peppers

Frozen Campfire Nachos Prep for Longer Camping Trips

If you’re planning a longer camping trip and want to have delicious nachos on hand, you can easily prepare and freeze your foil packet nachos ahead of time.

Freezing your meat and toppings is a convenient way to ensure they stay fresh and ready to use whenever you’re ready to cook them.

Freezing Your Meat and Toppings

Before freezing your meat and toppings, it’s important to make sure they are properly stored to maintain their quality.

Here’s how:

  1. Place cooked and cooled meat in airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date them for easy reference.
  2. For toppings like cheese and onions, you can portion them out into individual freezer bags or containers. This way, you can easily grab the desired amount when preparing your foil packet nachos. I wouldn’t recommend freezing the tomatoes.
  3. Remove as much air as possible from the freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. You can use a straw to suck out the air before sealing.
  4. Store the meat and toppings in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating for Freshness

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen foil packet nachos, reheating them properly is key to preserving their freshness. Follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven or grill to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Remove the foil packet nachos from the freezer and unwrap them.
  3. Place the foil packet nachos on a baking sheet or grill and heat them for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Check the internal temperature of the nachos with a food thermometer. The meat and toppings should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Carefully remove the foil packet nachos from the oven or grill and let them cool slightly before serving.

Can you Pre Make Tin Foil Dinners?

Yes, you can pre make tin foil dinners. However, Foil Pack Nachos are best made right before grilling. If you make them ahead of time, the tortilla chips will become soggy.

Conclusion

Foil packet nachos are the perfect camping recipe. They offer convenience, versatility, and a delicious crowd-pleasing meal that can be enjoyed in the great outdoors. By choosing your favorite ingredients and following the simple steps to prepare and cook the foil packet nachos, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup.

Stay tuned for more foil packet recipes in the upcoming weeks.

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