Go Back

Foil Packet Fish

Foil packet fish is an easy camping seafood method that bakes flaky fish in sealed aluminum for juicy results. Open the foil to reveal tender zucchini, bell pepper, lemon slices, and buttery garlic-herb flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Foil packet fish
  • 4 fish fillets (salmon, trout, or tilapia)
  • 2 lemons, sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dill or parsley
  • 0.5 tsp salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Assemble the packets
  1. Lay each fish fillet in the center of a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Top each fillet with minced garlic, dill or parsley, salt, and pepper, then add a pat of butter.
  2. Arrange lemon slices over the fish and surround it with zucchini and bell pepper slices. Keep the filling evenly distributed so everything cooks at the same pace.
  3. Fold the foil to fully seal the packets. Press edges tightly to trap steam during cooking.
Cook over medium campfire heat
  1. Place the sealed packets on a campfire grate over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. Keep the packet side up and avoid flipping so the steam cooks the fish evenly.
  2. Check doneness by opening one packet carefully and testing the fish with a fork. Cook until the fish flakes easily and the vegetables are tender.
Serve
  1. Carefully open the packets at the table and let steam vent away from your face. Serve the fish and vegetables straight from the foil with the lemon juices.

Notes

For the cleanest steam seal, fold edges twice and ensure the foil is snug around the fish so nothing leaks. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; freeze is not recommended because foil-cooked vegetables soften. For a lighter option, use olive oil in place of butter and add a squeeze of extra lemon at serving for bright flavor.