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Savory Campfire Foil Pack Loaded Nachos Recipe with Beef and Cheese

campfire foil pack loaded nachos - featured image

A quick and easy foil pack nachos recipe perfect for camping or backyard bonfires, featuring seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups (about 120 grams) sturdy tortilla chips
  • 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheese (sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
  • 12 jalapeños, sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro, a handful chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add 1 pound ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Tear off four sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12×12 inches (30×30 cm). Lightly oil the foil to prevent sticking.
  6. Place 1 cup (30 grams) of tortilla chips on each foil sheet. Spoon a quarter of the seasoned beef over the chips, then sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 grams) shredded cheese on top.
  7. Add optional toppings like sliced jalapeños and 1/8 cup (30 ml) black beans if using.
  8. Fold the foil edges tightly to create sealed packets, leaving space inside for steam but preventing leaks.
  9. Place foil packs on hot coals or grill grate over medium heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Carefully remove foil packs with tongs or fireproof gloves. Open cautiously to avoid steam burns.
  11. Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Notes

Use sturdy, thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Double-layer foil for durability. Pre-cook beef fully to reduce campfire cooking time. Turn foil packs gently once during cooking. Can be baked in a 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes or air fried at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. For vegetarian version, substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and veggies.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire nachos, foil pack nachos, loaded nachos, beef and cheese nachos, camping recipes, easy outdoor meals