When it comes to outdoor adventures, nothing beats a delicious meal cooked over a campfire. There’s something special about gathering around the flames, swapping stories, and savoring a warm, satisfying meal after a long day of exploring. But let’s be real – cooking in the great outdoors can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to camping or don’t have much experience with outdoor cooking. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 easy and delicious camping recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From hearty one-pot meals to quick and easy snacks, we’ve rounded up some of the best camping recipes out there. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these recipes are designed to be simple, flavorful, and fun to make. So grab your tent, pack up your gear, and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty grub.
One-Pot Campfire Chili
As the sun sets on your campsite, warm up with this hearty one-pot chili that’s easy to make and feeds a crowd. This recipe is perfect for camping trips or cozy nights around the fire.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of canned tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, all wrapped up in foil packets. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
3. Divide the shrimp evenly among the foil packets.
4. Top each packet with a tablespoon of softened butter, a sprinkle of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Fold the foil to create a tight seal, making sure the edges are secure.
6. Place the packets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Gather around the campsite and fuel up with these savory breakfast burritos, perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure. These burritos are packed with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen large eggs
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6-8 flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and scramble them with a fork.
2. Cook the bacon in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the scrambled eggs to the skillet and cook until set.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by adding the egg mixture, bacon, and cheese to each tortilla.
6. Roll up the burritos and wrap individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with these mouthwatering chicken skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 16-20 minutes.
Easy Campfire Quesadillas
A delicious and convenient campfire snack that’s perfect for your next outdoor adventure. This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be cooked right over the campfire.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/2 cup diced chicken breast or cooked sausage
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, diced chicken or sausage, and chopped onion.
3. Place a tortilla on the grill and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Dutch Oven Campfire Pizza
Savor the flavors of a freshly baked pizza while camping with this simple recipe that yields a delicious, gooey pie in the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C) by placing it in the ashes or coals.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place it on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add your desired toppings and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the pizza in the preheated Dutch oven, drizzle with olive oil, and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Veggie-Packed Foil Packet Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that’s packed with colorful vegetables! These individual foil packets are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
5. Divide the potato mixture among the foil squares, leaving a small border around each portion.
6. Fold the foil over the potatoes, creating a sealed packet.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Trail Mix Granola Bars
These no-bake granola bars are perfect for a quick energy boost or post-workout snack, packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
2. In a small saucepan, heat honey, peanut butter, and brown sugar over low heat until smooth.
3. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! No baking required.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious Trail Mix Granola Bars!
Campfire Sausage and Veggie Foil Packets
Cook up a hearty and flavorful meal over the campfire with these easy-to-make foil packets. This recipe is perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings, as it’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 hot dogs (your choice of flavor)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire by adding larger logs to the flames.
2. Cut four pieces of foil into large squares (about 18×18 inches).
3. Place a hot dog in the center of each piece of foil, leaving a small border around it.
4. Add a few slices of onion, bell pepper, and potato around the hot dog.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
7. Place the packets in the campfire, cooking for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
A classic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or dessert. These no-bake cookies are made with rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey, requiring no baking time at all!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the salt and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. Once firm, use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake cookies require no cooking time at all.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Spicy Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled corn with a spicy kick. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, hot sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Brush the spicy butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Campfire Mac and Cheese
Elevate your camping trip with this comforting macaroni and cheese recipe, perfectly suited for a campfire cookout. With its creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and tender pasta, this dish will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a campfire-safe pot or Dutch oven and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Easy Beef and Bean Campfire Nachos
Easy Beef and Bean Campfire Nachos: A hearty, flavorful snack perfect for your next camping trip or backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a large platter or camping dish.
6. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Place the nachos near the campfire and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Boat S’mores
Elevate your s’mores game with this sweet and gooey Banana Boat recipe! Simply substitute traditional graham crackers with ripe bananas, and you’ll be enjoying a unique twist on the classic campfire treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 bag of marshmallows
– 1 bar of milk chocolate (or your favorite flavor)
– Fire or a kitchen torch for toasting
Instructions:
1. Cut each banana in half lengthwise, creating a “boat” shape.
2. Place a marshmallow on top of each banana boat.
3. Hold the banana boat over the flames or use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallow until golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and place a piece of chocolate on top of the toasted marshmallow.
5. Sandwich with another half banana boat, pressing gently.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side for toasting marshmallows.
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork Sandwiches
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pulled pork sandwiches with minimal effort and cleanup. Perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the preheated Dutch oven and cook for 6-8 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns and fill with shredded pork.
7. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Campfire French Toast Sticks
Start your camping adventure with a sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking around the campsite. These crispy French toast sticks are dipped in a rich chocolate glaze and toasted to perfection over the campfire.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 breadsticks (or cubed bread)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Marshmallows and graham crackers for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Dip each breadstick into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
3. Place coated breadsticks on a stick or skewer.
4. Heat butter over campfire grill or griddle until melted.
5. Cook French toast sticks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, melt chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between).
7. Dip cooked French toast sticks into melted chocolate and serve with marshmallows and graham crackers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Grilled Salmon Foil Packets
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful and easy-to-make salmon packets, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. Brighten up the flavors with a burst of citrus and pungency from lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a salmon fillet on a large piece of aluminum foil (about 12 inches square).
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Fold the foil into a packet, sealing the edges tightly.
7. Place packets on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Campfire Pancakes
Gather around the campsite with a warm and fluffy stack of pancakes made right over the campfire!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix with milk.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Loaded Hot Dog Foil Packets
Get ready for a twist on traditional hot dogs with these loaded foil packets that combine savory flavors and gooey cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or party snack!
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped bacon
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into large squares (about 12 inches x 12 inches).
3. Place a hot dog in the center of each square, leaving a small border around it.
4. Top each hot dog with sliced onion, minced garlic, shredded cheese, and chopped bacon.
5. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the toppings and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold foil squares into packets, sealing edges tightly.
7. Grill or bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and hot dogs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Campfire Cinnamon Roll-Ups
Elevate your camping experience with these gooey, sweet, and easy-to-make Campfire Cinnamon Roll-Ups. Perfect for a cozy campfire snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (8-10 rolls)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or cooking grate to medium heat.
2. Roll out the cinnamon roll dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold the dough into a log shape, starting from one long side. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Place each piece onto the preheated grill or cooking grate, seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with melted butter drizzled over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch (depending on heat and number of rolls)
Summary
Get ready to fuel your outdoor adventures with these delicious and easy camping recipes! From hearty one-pot meals to sweet treats, this collection of 20 recipes has got you covered. Whip up a campfire chili or quesadillas for a satisfying lunch, or indulge in campfire pizzas, mac and cheese, or cinnamon roll-ups for a cozy dinner. And don’t forget the snacks – try your hand at trail mix granola bars, banana boat s’mores, or loaded hot dog foil packets. Whether you’re camping with friends or enjoying a solo adventure, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite.
