Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Smoky Southwest Beef & Potato Foil Packets.
What is a Smoky Southwest Beef & Potato Foil Packet?
It is a modern twist on the classic hobo dinner, featuring adobo-marinated lean ground beef stuffed with cheese and topped with a seasoned potato mixture.
How much ground beef is required for this recipe?
You will need 1 1/2 lbs of thawed lean ground beef.
What ingredients are in the adobo marinade?
The marinade consists of chicken stock, paprika, oregano, cumin, minced red bell pepper, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
How long should the beef marinate in the adobo sauce?
The ground beef should soak in the prepared adobo sauce for 1 to 2 hours.
Should I drain the beef after marinating?
Yes, use a colander to drain excess moisture, but keep enough to ensure the patties remain juicy.
How are the potatoes prepared for this dish?
Four medium potatoes should be peeled and diced before being tossed with a lemon juice and olive oil mixture.
What vegetables are added to the potato mixture?
The potato mixture includes diced red pepper and two sliced green onions.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of Monterey Jack cheese, cut into squares.
How do I assemble the cheese-stuffed beef patties?
Divide the beef into 8 portions. Place 1 ounce of cheese in the center of one patty, top with a second patty, and seal the edges.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How long do the foil packets need to bake?
Bake the packets for 1 to 1.25 hours.
How do I know when the foil packets are done cooking?
They are done when the potatoes are tender and the beef is cooked through.
Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them and store them in the fridge to allow the flavors to deepen overnight.
What type of foil is suggested for this recipe?
The recipe specifically mentions using Reynolds Wrap Foil for wrapping the meals.
How much chicken stock is used?
The recipe requires 1 cup of liquid chicken stock.
What spices are included in the adobo sauce?
It includes 1/2 teaspoon of ground paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves.
What is used to coat the potatoes?
A mixture of 1/3 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup olive oil is whisked together to coat the potatoes.
Is salt and pepper used in this recipe?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to taste before sealing the foil packets.
How many beef patties are formed in total?
The beef is divided into 8 equal portions to create 4 stuffed patties.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar.
How are the green onions prepared?
The 2 green onions should be sliced before being added to the potatoes.
What is the texture of the center of the patty?
The center contains melted Monterey Jack cheese, creating a creamy explosion of flavor.
Is the red bell pepper used in more than one place?
Yes, half is minced for the beef marinade and the other half is diced for the potato mixture.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The dish has smoky Southwest flavors with robust adobo notes and a zesty finish.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor cooking?
Yes, while the instructions provide oven directions, the description mentions it is perfect for elevating outdoor cooking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 17 ingredients listed in total.
How should the potatoes be cut?
The potatoes should be peeled and diced into pieces.
Can these be served at a weekend gathering?
Yes, the recipe description notes they are perfect for a relaxed weekend gathering.