When you’re on a camping trip, the last thing you want to worry about is cooking. But with these 20 easy camping recipes, you’ll be able to feed your hungry crowd without breaking a sweat. From hearty campfire chili and one-pot pasta primavera to grilled foil packet potatoes and trail mix granola bars, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these simple and delicious recipes are sure to become new favorites on the trail.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy camping recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor adventure. From classic campfire fare like BBQ chicken foil packets and campfire nachos, to sweet treats like banana boat s’mores and Dutch oven peach cobbler, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering dishes.
Dutch Oven Campfire Chili
A hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for camping trips or cozy nights around the campsite.
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 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over the campfire, allowing it to reach a medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ground beef in the pot, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant One-Pot Pasta Primavera, packed with the flavors of spring. This quick and easy recipe combines tender vegetables, juicy chicken, and al dente pasta in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– 1 cup cooked penne pasta
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cooked penne pasta; stir to combine.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Foil Packet Potatoes
Elevate your grilled meals with this easy and flavorful side dish that requires minimal effort and maximum flavor. Grilled foil packet potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite BBQ or picnic fare.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut a piece of aluminum foil large enough to wrap each potato wedge in its own packet.
3. Place a potato wedge on the center of each foil piece, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
5. Fold the foil over the potatoes, creating a tight seal.
6. Place packets on grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Breakfast Skillet
Elevate your campsite breakfast with this easy-to-make Campfire Breakfast Skillet, featuring scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the diced onion and sliced potatoes for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Add the bacon pieces and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with the potato mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with butter if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
Impress your family and friends with this simple and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. These individual packets are easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 foil sheets (heavy-duty)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Brush both sides with the oil mixture.
4. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce over each chicken breast.
5. Fold foil sheets to enclose chicken, leaving space for steam to build up.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Trail Mix Granola Bars
These homemade granola bars are packed with nutritious ingredients, including rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruit. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout fuel, they’re also easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Quesadillas
Experience the thrill of a campfire meal with these gooey, cheesy quesadillas cooked to perfection over an open flame. Perfect for a camping trip or a backyard gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken (or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla on the grill and sprinkle half with cheese and chicken (or beans).
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Beef and Veggie Kabobs
These colorful kabobs are a perfect blend of tender beef and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or broil kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Cornbread
This Dutch oven cornbread recipe takes the traditional Southern staple to new heights by cooking it in a cast-iron pot. The result is a crispy, golden-brown crust and a moist, flavorful interior that’s perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the preheated Dutch oven and smooth top.
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Campfire Nachos
Get ready to elevate your camping trip with this deliciously simple recipe for Campfire Nachos! This treat is perfect for a group gathering or a cozy night around the campsite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 lb ground beef, cooked and seasoned with taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire by adding larger logs to create a good bed of coals.
2. Place a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over the campfire, letting it heat up for about 5 minutes.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around.
4. Pour in the refried beans and cook until heated through.
5. Add the cooked ground beef, diced bell peppers, and sliced jalapeño pepper. Stir well.
6. Arrange tortilla chips on top of the bean mixture.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the nachos.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for a tender and juicy pulled pork sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, but the end result is well worth it.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
3. Place the pork in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. After 8 hours, remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
5. Add the barbecue sauce and stir until the pork is well coated.
6. Split the hamburger buns and spoon the pulled pork onto each bun.
7. Serve with coleslaw (optional) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Veggie Medley
Savor the flavors of summer with this colorful medley of grilled vegetables, perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
4. Grill the vegetable medley for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Campfire Mac and Cheese
Campfire Mac and Cheese: A Cozy Classic Reimagined
Whether you’re a camper or just looking for a comforting meal to warm up, this Campfire Mac and Cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups campfire-roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire by adding wood and letting it burn down to coals.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted vegetables, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, butter, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the pot and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven and cook over the campfire for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
This classic dessert is a perfect blend of tender peaches, crispy biscuit topping, and warm spices, all cooked to perfection in your trusty Dutch oven. This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour mixture into the preheated Dutch oven.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Gradually add heavy cream or buttermilk to form a dough.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the peach mixture.
7. Cover Dutch oven with lid and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Walking Tacos
A fun twist on traditional tacos, Walking Tacos are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of Fritos Scoops
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Add the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Warm the Fritos Scoops according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the tacos by filling each scoop with the beef mixture, then topping with shredded cheese and desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Campfire Pizza Cones
Campfire Pizza Cones: A Fun Twist on Classic Camping Food!
These crispy cones are filled with gooey melted mozzarella and savory pizza sauce, perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this tasty treat around the campsite.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pizza cones (or small flour tortillas)
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your camping stove or fire pit to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the pizza cones according to package instructions (or cook tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side).
3. Spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each cone, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook cones for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Sausage and Peppers
A classic summer BBQ favorite, this grilled sausage and peppers recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a casual dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the sausages and bell peppers.
4. Place the sausages and vegetables on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes per side or until the sausages are nicely charred and the peppers are tender.
5. Serve hot with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This Dutch oven recipe is easy to make and requires minimal supervision, making it a great option for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs 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 beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in a little oil, then set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the browned beef, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Campfire Baked Beans
Elevate your camping trip with these sweet and smoky campfire baked beans, perfect for pairing with your favorite camping menu. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously tender and flavorful bean dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can of pork and beans
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire by adding larger logs to the fire pit, allowing them to burn down to coals.
2. In a small cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, combine pork and beans, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until well combined, then add vegetable oil and mix again.
4. Place the skillet over the campfire coals and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Banana Boat S’mores
Elevate your s’mores game with this creative take that replaces traditional marshmallows with caramel-filled banana boats. The result is a sweet and gooey treat that’s perfect for campfires or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups chocolate chips
– 12 graham crackers
– Fire-roasted marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas in half lengthwise and fill each with about 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce.
2. Place a banana boat on a graham cracker, followed by a few chocolate chips.
3. Top with another graham cracker to create a sandwich.
4. Roast marshmallows over the campfire or use store-bought roasted marshmallows for an extra-decadent touch (if using).
5. Sandwich the marshmallow between two more graham crackers and place on top of the banana boat.
6. Enjoy your unique Banana Boat S’mores!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Summary
Get ready to fuel your camping adventure with these easy and delicious recipes! From hearty campfire chili and one-pot pasta primavera, to grilled foil packet potatoes and trail mix granola bars, there’s something for every hungry camper. Try making campfire quesadillas, beef and veggie kabobs, or Dutch oven cornbread for a comforting treat. And don’t forget the sweet treats – campfire nachos, pulled pork sandwiches, and banana boat s’mores are sure to satisfy any craving. With these 20 easy camping recipes, you’ll never go hungry on your next outdoor adventure!
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