As you hit the great outdoors, the last thing on your mind should be cooking. But let’s face it – a delicious meal can make all the difference in a camping trip. With these easy and mouth-watering recipes, you’ll never have to settle for plain old campfire hot dogs again. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners, we’ve got you covered with our top 18 camper-friendly recipes.
**Start Your Day Off Right**
Our first recipe is perfect for the early risers out there – Campfire Breakfast Burritos. Scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and hash browns all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Sounds like a camping dream come true!
Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Gather ’round the campsite and fuel up with these satisfying breakfast burritos, perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure. These fill-the-tank breakfast wraps combine scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 pound cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and scramble them with a fork.
2. Cook the bacon over the campfire or in a pan until crispy.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them over the campfire for 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, black beans, and shredded cheese.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the fillings, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
6. Serve immediately or store in a thermos for later.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
This vibrant One-Pot Pasta Primavera recipe is a colorful celebration of spring’s freshest ingredients. With a medley of vegetables, herbs, and pasta cooked to perfection in one pot, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (spring-inspired shapes like bows or shells work well)
– 2 cups mixed spring veggies (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, snap peas)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large, deep pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (4-5 minutes).
4. Add mixed veggies; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add cooked pasta. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Chili
This classic recipe yields a rich, thick chili perfect for cold winter nights or outdoor gatherings. With its deep flavors and tender texture, this Dutch oven chili is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 cup of beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, green chilies, and beef broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Foil Packet Potatoes
Grilled Foil Packet Potatoes: A Simple Summer Side Dish
Simplify your outdoor cooking with this easy recipe that yields tender, flavorful potatoes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges or 1/2-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs and spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 18 inches square), place the potatoes in a single layer.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
4. Fold the foil over the potatoes, creating a packet, and seal by folding the edges multiple times.
5. Place the foil packet directly on the grill and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Carefully remove the foil packet from the grill and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Campfire Quesadillas
Elevate your campsite meals with these gooey, cheesy quesadillas cooked to perfection over the campfire. Perfect for a quick snack or dinner, they’re sure to be a hit with outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
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 diced bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla on the grill and sprinkle half with cheese, chicken/sausage, and bell peppers.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per quesadilla
Trail Mix Energy Bars
These no-bake energy bars are packed with wholesome ingredients and a hint of sweetness, making them the perfect companion for your next hike or outdoor escapade.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, dried fruit, and chopped nuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together nut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars (approximately 12-16).
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy bars are ready in just a few minutes.
Beef and Veggie Skewers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional skewers, these beef and veggie kebabs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 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
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Campfire Pizza Pockets
These bite-sized pizza pockets are a perfect camping companion – just assemble, cook over the campfire, and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
– Cooking oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the campfire to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings on top of the sauce.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with cooking oil and place pizza pocket directly on the campfire grate.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crust is golden brown, flipping halfway through.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Easy Pancake Mix
Easy Pancake Mix Recipe
Simplify your breakfast routine with this effortless pancake mix recipe! Whip up a batch of fluffy and delicious pancakes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the milk, stirring until smooth.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until well combined.
4. The batter should still be slightly lumpy – perfect!
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Hot Dog and Bean Casserole
A comforting and satisfying twist on traditional hot dogs, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering. With a flavorful combination of beans, cheese, and savory hot dogs, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hot dogs, sliced
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced hot dogs over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked hot dogs, beans, corn kernels, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the crushed crackers in the bottom. Top with the hot dog mixture, followed by the shredded cheese.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining crackers on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Campfire French Toast
Start your camping day with a delicious twist on the classic breakfast treat – Campfire French Toast! This recipe is easy to make and perfect for cooking over a campfire.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old)
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat or a campfire griddle over medium-low heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
6. Serve warm with melted butter, maple syrup, or honey (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer gatherings with this classic grilled corn on the cob recipe. With a few simple steps and just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be enjoying perfectly charred and flavorful corn in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. Brush corn ears with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Place corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush melted butter onto each ear of corn.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Ramen Upgrade
This recipe takes the humble Instant Ramen to the next level by adding some fresh flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack, this upgraded version will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Instant Ramen noodles
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or other protein of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, scramble the beaten eggs and set aside.
3. Add the diced green onions and sliced mushrooms to the same pan and sauté until tender.
4. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
5. Top with scrambled eggs and any desired protein (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Campfire S’mores Dip
Gather ’round the campsite with this gooey, sweet treat that’s sure to satisfy your s’mores cravings. This easy-to-make dip is perfect for a camping trip or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup marshmallow creme
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or a conventional oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme until smooth.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top of the dip.
5. Drizzle with honey and serve warm with graham crackers or cookies for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vegetarian Campfire Stew
Gather ’round the campsite with this hearty, warming stew that’s perfect for a night under the stars. This recipe combines tender vegetables and savory spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
Quickly cook juicy chicken breasts with tender veggies in a flavorful BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a convenient foil packet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into large squares (about 12″ x 12″).
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each foil square, leaving a 1-inch border around the chicken.
4. Top with onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini.
5. Brush BBQ sauce evenly over the top.
6. Fold foil over the ingredients, sealing the edges tightly.
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Apple Crisp
Campfire Apple Crisp Recipe: A Delicious Outdoor Treat
Enjoy a warm and comforting dessert around the campsite with this easy-to-make Campfire Apple Crisp recipe. Perfect for a camping trip or outdoor gathering, this sweet treat is sure to be a hit!
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
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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 melted butter until well combined.
4. Top the apple mixture with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
5. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Simple Tuna Salad Wraps
These Simple Tuna Salad Wraps are a quick and easy lunch or snack solution that combines the flavors of tuna, mayonnaise, and lettuce wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped lettuce
– 1 large tortilla wrap
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna and mayonnaise. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Add the chopped lettuce to the tuna mixture and stir gently.
3. Lay the tortilla wrap flat on a surface.
4. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to fuel your camping adventures with these delicious and easy recipes! From hearty breakfast burritos to satisfying campfire pizzas, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Dutch oven chili, grilled foil packet potatoes, or campfire quesadillas. For a sweet treat, make some s’mores dip or campfire apple crisp. And don’t forget the energy-boosting trail mix bars and instant ramen upgrade. Whether you’re a camper, hiker, or just looking for outdoor-inspired meals, these 18 easy recipes are sure to please.
