Getting out into nature and enjoying a camping trip with friends or family can be an incredible experience. But let’s be real – one of the best parts of camping isn’t just the great outdoors, it’s the delicious food! With a little creativity and some basic camping gear, you can whip up a meal that’s not only tasty but also easy to prepare over the campfire.
In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor adventure. From hearty one-pot meals to sweet treats and snacks, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these easy camping recipes will have you cooking up a storm in no time. So grab your tent, your hiking boots, and let’s get started!
One-Pot Campfire Chili
Gather ’round the campfire and warm up with this hearty, one-pot chili recipe that’s perfect for a camping trip or a cozy night in. This easy-to-make dish is packed with flavor and can be ready to devour in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp
A simple and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a seafood-loving party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place shrimp in the center of a foil packet, leaving a 1-inch border around each shrimp.
4. Top each shrimp with about 1/2 teaspoon of the garlic butter mixture.
5. Fold foil over shrimp to form a tight seal.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a warm and satisfying breakfast burrito, perfect for camping trips or a quick morning meal. These burritos combine scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup scrambled eggs
– 4-6 breakfast sausage links, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, onions, and salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage links over medium-high heat until browned, then crumble.
2. Scramble the eggs in a separate pan and season with salt and pepper.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the burritos by placing about 1/4 cup of scrambled eggs, 1/4 cup of sausage, and 1/4 cup of cheese onto each tortilla.
5. Add any desired toppings, then wrap the burrito up tightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Campfire Pizza
Grilled Campfire Pizza Recipe
Enjoy a delicious and unique pizza experience with this grilled campfire recipe! Gather your friends and family around the campsite, and get ready to savor the flavors of the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni or other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza crust and spread the tomato sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese followed by the Parmesan cheese.
4. Add your desired toppings, such as pepperoni or fresh vegetables.
5. Place the pizza on a piece of aluminum foil, folding the edges to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped basil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a cozy twist with this Dutch oven recipe, where the slow-cooked macaroni and cheese blend together in perfect harmony. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and combine thoroughly.
7. Transfer the mixture to the preheated Dutch oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Campfire Quesadillas
Easy Campfire Quesadillas: A camping classic that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a group
Gather ’round the campsite with these easy-to-make quesadillas, filled with melted cheese, savory beans, and crispy tortilla. This recipe is a camping staple that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, half of the cheese, onion, and bell pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the grill or skillet and brush with cooking oil or butter.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture onto half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Walking Tacos in a Bag
This recipe takes the traditional walking taco to the next level by serving it in a convenient bag. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Fritos scoops
– 1 can of refried beans
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
3. Warm the refried beans in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. Assemble the walking tacos by placing a scoop of Fritos in each bag, followed by a spoonful of refried beans, some ground beef, and shredded cheese.
5. Add any desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Campfire Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Savor the warmth of a campfire with this simple and satisfying recipe, perfect for a cozy outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, American, or mozzarella)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on a campfire grill or griddle.
3. Add one or two slices of cheese on top of the bread.
4. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Foil Packet Sausage and Veggies
A simple and flavorful recipe perfect for camping trips or a quick weeknight dinner. This foil packet recipe cooks sausage and veggies to perfection, with minimal cleanup required.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sausage links (any variety)
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a campfire or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut a large piece of heavy-duty foil into four equal pieces.
3. Place one sausage link in the center of each foil piece.
4. Add sliced bell pepper, onion, garlic, and zucchini around the sausage.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a packet.
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until sausage is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Campfire Banana Boats
A deliciously simple dessert that’s perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings. These banana boats are a fun twist on the classic campfire treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the bananas, creating a “boat” shape.
2. Place 2-3 marshmallows inside each banana boat.
3. If using chocolate chips, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds or until smooth. Drizzle over the marshmallows.
4. Place the banana boats on a piece of aluminum foil or a campfire cooking grate.
5. Cook over the campfire or grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bananas are caramelized and the marshmallows are toasted.
6. Serve warm, topped with butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Dutch Oven Cornbread
Moist, flavorful cornbread is a staple of many outdoor gatherings and camping trips. This recipe takes the classic cornbread to the next level by cooking it in a Dutch oven, giving it a crispy crust and a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and vegetable oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the preheated Dutch oven.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Hot Dogs with Toppings Bar
Gather ’round the campfire and enjoy a classic camping treat with endless customization options!
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1 bag of hot dog buns
– Assorted toppings (see below)
– Cooking oil or butter for grilling
Toppings Bar Options:
– Condiments: ketchup, mustard, relish, and chili flakes
– Cheese: shredded cheddar, sliced American, or mozzarella strings
– Fresh veggies: diced onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms
– Meat add-ins: crumbled bacon, diced ham, or chopped cooked chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. Place a hot dog on each bun.
3. Brush the grill or griddle with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
4. Grill hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.
5. Set up a toppings bar with your desired options.
6. Assemble your hot dog with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes total, depending on grill temperature and cooking time.
Easy Skillet Pancakes
Start your day with a warm and fluffy stack of pancakes, cooked to perfection in just one skillet! This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy mornings.
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 butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a 12-inch non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Enjoy your warm and delicious skillet pancakes!
Grilled Foil Packet Potatoes
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, grilled foil packet potatoes are an easy and flavorful side dish that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients and no mess to clean up, this recipe is a winner!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large piece of aluminum foil, place potato chunks in the center, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and dot with butter. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
4. Fold foil over potatoes to create a packet, making sure edges are sealed tightly.
5. Place packet on grill and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Campfire Nachos in a Skillet
Gather around the campfire with this scrumptious twist on traditional nachos. This recipe combines the flavors of melted cheese, savory beans, and crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying snack that’s perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire skillet or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tortilla chips and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly toasted.
3. Drain the black beans and add them on top of the chips.
4. Sprinkle both types of cheese evenly over the nachos.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
Spring into a delicious and effortless meal with this One-Pot Pasta Primavera recipe! This colorful dish is packed with flavorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a rich, savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, and snap peas)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed spring vegetables, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Campfire S’mores Dip
Get ready to elevate your campfire game with this decadent and gooey Campfire S’mores Dip! This treat is perfect for a camping trip, backyard gathering, or even just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
• 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup marshmallow creme
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme until smooth.
3. Add in the chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs, honey, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a cast-iron skillet or a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dip is warm and the marshmallows are toasted.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these simple and flavorful grilled chicken foil packets. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, this recipe requires minimal effort and yields tender, juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut four pieces of heavy-duty foil into large squares (about 18 inches).
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each square.
4. Add mixed vegetables, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
5. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a packet, leaving room for steam to escape.
6. Grill packets for 12-15 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your outdoor adventures with these 18 delicious and easy camping recipes! From hearty one-pot dishes like Campfire Chili and Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese, to quick and simple meals like Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp and Easy Skillet Pancakes, there’s something for every camper. And don’t forget the sweet treats – try Campfire Banana Boats or S’mores Dip around the campsite. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsy type or just starting out, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So pack up your tent and get cooking with these easy camping recipes!
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