There’s nothing quite like spending time in nature, and when it comes to camping, there are few ways to make your experience more enjoyable than cooking delicious meals over the campfire. And what better way to do that than with a trusty cast iron skillet or Dutch oven? Whether you’re looking for hearty breakfasts, satisfying dinners, or sweet treats to satisfy your sweet tooth, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites on your next camping trip.
Campfire Dutch Oven Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings. This Campfire Dutch Oven Chili is easy to prepare, cooks quickly over a campfire, and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of diced tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of water
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 12-inch Dutch oven.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Add the water and stir again.
6. Place the Dutch oven over the campfire, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a simmer.
7. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter
This classic cornbread recipe gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey butter, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. The skillet-cooked cornbread is moist and flavorful, while the honey butter adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and buttermilk; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While the cornbread is baking, mix honey and softened butter in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Remove cornbread from oven; spread with honey butter.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Campfire Pizza
Gather ’round the campsite and enjoy a delicious, crispy pizza cooked to perfection in your trusty cast iron skillet over an open flame.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, etc.)
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over the campfire for 10-15 minutes.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place the dough in the preheated skillet and spread with marinara sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes on one side or until crust is golden brown.
7. Flip the pizza and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
One-Pan Camping Breakfast Hash
Start your camping day off right with this hearty, one-pan breakfast hash that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. cooked sausage (such as breakfast links or Italian sausage), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your camping stove or campfire cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook the sausage slices until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them into the skillet, stirring occasionally until cooked through.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the hash and cook for an additional minute, until melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler: A Warm and Comforting Dessert
This classic cobbler recipe is a perfect way to end any meal, featuring sweet and juicy peaches topped with a crispy, buttery crust. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this warm and comforting dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Arrange the peach mixture in the preheated Dutch oven.
4. Dot the top of the peaches with butter pieces.
5. Pour heavy cream or half-and-half over the peaches.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from heat, let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Cast Iron Steak with Herbs
Elevate your steak game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the rich flavor of cast iron cooking with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Place the steak in a preheated cast iron skillet or grill pan over direct heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
5. Brush the top of the steak with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary and thyme.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Campfire Skillet Nachos
Elevate your camping experience with this delicious and easy-to-make skillet nacho recipe, perfect for sharing around the campsite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire or camping stove to medium-high heat.
2. In the preheated skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the onion and jalapeño until softened.
3. Add the refried beans and stir until combined with the onion mixture.
4. Arrange the tortilla chips on top of the bean mixture.
5. Sprinkle both types of cheese evenly over the chips.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Cast Iron Dutch Oven Bread
This recipe yields a crusty, chewy bread that’s perfect for dipping into soups or olive oil. It’s a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the rustic charm of cast iron cooking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add the melted butter and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased cast iron Dutch oven.
6. Cover with a lid and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Camping Skillet Lasagna
This recipe is a camping twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for a campsite meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a warm, cheesy lasagna without the need for oven or stove.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef and onion in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add garlic and marinara sauce; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
3. Arrange lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the noodles, followed by Parmesan cheese.
5. Cook over medium heat, covered with a lid or foil, for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Stew
Hearty and comforting, this Dutch oven beef stew is a perfect meal for a chilly day or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cast Iron Sausage and Veggies
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of sausage and vegetables, cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Apple Crisp
Elevate your camping experience with this easy-to-make Campfire Apple Crisp, perfect for a cozy night around the campsite. This warm and comforting dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
2. Transfer the apple mixture to a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
4. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
5. Place the skillet or Dutch oven over the campfire, adjusting the heat as needed, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp
A flavorful and indulgent seafood dish that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, cooked to perfection in a single skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
Warm up with this comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend gathering. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth in a single, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken; brown on all sides.
4. Pour in broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer 15 minutes.
6. In a separate bowl, mix flour and thyme; gradually add water to form dumpling mixture.
7. Drop by spoonfuls into pot; cover and cook an additional 10-15 minutes, or until dumplings are fluffy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cast Iron Campfire Quesadillas
Elevate your camping experience with these gooey, crispy quesadillas cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet over the campfire. Perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over the campfire for 5-7 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix together shredded cheese, diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the preheated skillet and sprinkle half 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 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Camping Jambalaya
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for camping trips or outdoor adventures.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skillet Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These Skillet Blueberry Pancakes are a twist on the classic pancake recipe, cooked in one pan and loaded with fresh blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Heat a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add batter and cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pancake is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 17-22 minutes
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork
Savor the tender, smoky flavor of slow-cooked pork with this easy Dutch oven recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the preheated Dutch oven, fat side up.
5. Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, ensuring the pork is mostly submerged.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your camping game with these 18 delicious cast iron recipes! From hearty breakfasts and savory stews, to decadent desserts and campfire classics, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, this collection of cast iron camping recipes will inspire you to try new flavors and cooking techniques on your next outdoor adventure.
Leave a Reply