When it comes to camping, few things are more essential than a good meal. And when you’re cooking over a campfire, there’s no better way to get that meal than with a trusty Dutch oven. With its heavy-duty construction and even heat distribution, a Dutch oven is the perfect tool for whipping up hearty, comforting dishes that’ll fuel your adventures. In this article, we’ll take a look at 19 delicious Dutch oven recipes that are sure to become new camping favorites. From classic campfire chili to savory breakfast strata, and from smoky pulled pork to decadent peach cobbler, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate collection of Dutch oven camping recipes.
Dutch oven campfire chili
Get ready for a hearty and warming campfire chili that’s perfect for your outdoor adventures.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and water. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
One-pot Dutch oven jambalaya
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana’s iconic dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans! This one-pot wonder combines saucy rice, savory sausage, and tender chicken in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, sausage, and olive oil; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, celery, garlic, thyme, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the rice and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Savory Dutch oven breakfast strata
A hearty breakfast strata perfect for a chilly morning, this savory delight combines tender vegetables, crispy bread, and gooey cheese in a single Dutch oven. A perfect brunch option or weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4-6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat), torn into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
5. Add torn bread, cheese, and cooked vegetables to the bowl; mix well.
6. Pour the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven.
7. Cook for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Remove from heat, let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crackling Dutch oven campfire bread
A rustic, crusty bread that’s perfect for camping trips or cozying up by the fire at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it in the campfire or oven at 375°F for 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Add vegetable oil and continue kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in the preheated Dutch oven and cover with a lid or foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch oven cowboy stew
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a camping trip. This cowboy stew is a comforting blend of tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth, all cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in small batches, then set aside.
3. Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and cumin. Stir to combine.
5. Return browned beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Hearty Dutch oven beef stew
This classic beef stew recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a cold winter’s day. Made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a hearty dish that will warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F.
2. Brown the beef in the hot pot, then remove from heat.
3. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
5. Return beef to pot and cover with lid.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Dutch oven peach cobbler
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe
Summary: This classic peach cobbler recipe is an easy and delicious dessert to make using a Dutch oven. The combination of juicy peaches, sweet biscuit topping, and caramelized crust will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peaches
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup biscuit topping mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peaches, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add the peach mixture to the preheated Dutch oven.
4. Top with biscuit topping mix, milk, and melted butter.
5. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the crust is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Smoky Dutch oven pulled pork
Get ready for a tender and juicy pulled pork that’s packed with smoky flavor. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the preheated Dutch oven and add the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove the pork from the pot and use two forks to pull it apart into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Dutch oven chicken and dumplings
A comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a rustic gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (2 legs, 2 thighs, 2 wings, 2 breasts)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss until coated.
4. In the preheated Dutch oven, brown the chicken in butter until golden.
5. Add carrots, celery, and onion; cook until vegetables are tender.
6. Pour in broth and heavy cream or whole milk; stir to combine.
7. Cover Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Camp-style Dutch oven lasagna
A hearty, one-pot lasagna perfect for camping trips or outdoor gatherings. This recipe simplifies the traditional Italian dish by using a Dutch oven and fewer ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange lasagna noodles on top of the tomato mixture. Spread with ricotta cheese.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to a campfire or other heat source. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch oven garlic herb monkey bread
This savory monkey bread recipe combines the flavors of garlic, herbs, and cheese to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (12-14 inches), cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the bread mixture in the preheated Dutch oven. Cover with a lid or foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dutch oven campfire mac and cheese
Elevate your camping experience with this creamy, comforting mac and cheese recipe cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven over a campfire.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the Dutch oven to a campfire and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch oven sausage and potato bake
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In the preheated Dutch oven, create a single layer of potatoes.
5. Top the potatoes with the cooked sausage mixture, followed by the shredded cheese.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch oven blueberry dump cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this Dutch oven blueberry dump cake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Simply mix together some common ingredients, pour them into your Dutch oven, and let the magic happen!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.5 oz) package of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add in the blueberries and vanilla extract; stir until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4. Pour the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven and smooth out the top.
5. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch oven cheesy cornbread
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful cornbread with a crispy crust, infused with the richness of melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening gathering or as a side dish for your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, melted butter, egg, and cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the preheated Dutch oven and cover with a lid.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from heat, let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dutch oven campfire pizza
Get ready for a twist on traditional pizza with this easy-to-make campfire delight. This recipe uses a Dutch oven to cook the crust and toppings, allowing you to enjoy a hot, cheesy meal around the campsite.
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, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
– Cooking oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven by placing it on the campfire grill or a heat source for about 10 minutes.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness and place in the preheated Dutch oven.
3. Spread the tomato sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Add toppings of your choice, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle cooking oil around the edges of the crust to prevent sticking.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and cook for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Carefully remove the pizza from the Dutch oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch oven shepherd’s pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this Dutch oven shepherd’s pie is a simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven or oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown ground beef in the pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and flour to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Arrange mashed potatoes over the top of the filling.
6. Dot with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover and bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dutch oven beef and barley soup
Warm up with this comforting, slow-cooked soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the beef in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Dutch oven cinnamon roll bake
This sweet treat combines the classic cinnamon roll with the warmth and coziness of a Dutch oven bake. The result is a tender, gooey, and utterly delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out dough on floured surface to desired thickness. Brush with cinnamon mixture, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Roll up tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in prepared Dutch oven.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your camping trip with these 19 hearty Dutch oven recipes! From campfire chili and jambalaya to breakfast strata and cowboy stew, there’s something for every adventurous cook. Try making crackling bread or savory pulled pork over an open flame. Or indulge in sweet treats like peach cobbler and blueberry dump cake. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite and warm your heart. So gather ’round the campsite and get cooking!
