Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp for Camping Nights

Nothing beats the ease and flavor of Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp when you’re out camping or enjoying a night around the campfire. The shrimp, coated in garlic butter and herbs, are sealed inside a foil packet, allowing all the flavors to meld together as it cooks over the fire. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a delicious outdoor meal. Here’s how you can make this mouthwatering dish for your next camping adventure.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Optional: Sliced bell peppers, onions, or asparagus for extra veggies
Step 1: Prepare the Foil Packets
Start by cutting four large squares of aluminum foil (about 12 inches each). Lay them flat on a clean surface and lightly grease the center of each square with a small amount of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them well to coat in the flavorful garlic butter mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets
Place a generous portion of shrimp in the center of each piece of foil. If you like, you can add sliced bell peppers, onions, or asparagus for some extra flavor and texture. These veggies pair wonderfully with shrimp, but they’re completely optional.
Fold up the sides of the foil and seal it tightly, making sure no gaps are left for the steam to escape.
Step 4: Cook Over the Fire
If you’re cooking over an open fire, place the foil packets on a grill grate or directly on the hot coals (not directly on the flame). Cook for about 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure the shrimp are pink and fully cooked. The shrimp should be tender and cooked through by the end.
If you’re using a camp stove, cook the packets over medium heat for about the same time, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam!) and transfer the shrimp and veggies to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up all the garlic butter sauce, or pair it with a simple salad or rice for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh jalapeños for some heat.
- Vegetable Options: You can easily swap the veggies for your favorites, such as zucchini, corn, or cherry tomatoes.
- Make Ahead: Pre-assemble the foil packets and store them in a cooler to make mealtime even quicker.
- Grill Option: If you’re grilling at home, these packets are perfect for the barbecue! Just place them on the grill and cook until the shrimp is pink and juicy.
Conclusion
These Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp are the perfect dish for camping nights—easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with the warmth of garlic butter. The convenience of foil packets makes cleanup a breeze, while the smoky flavor from the campfire adds a delicious twist to this already mouthwatering meal. Enjoy it under the stars, and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family!