Gather ’round, campers! The great outdoors can be just as delicious as it is beautiful. When you’re on a camping trip, there’s no need to sacrifice flavor for convenience. With these 20 easy and mouth-watering camping dinner recipes, you’ll be fueled for adventure in no time.
From one-pot wonders like Cheesy Campfire Pasta to skillet sizzlers like Sausage and Veggie Hash, we’ve got a recipe for every camper’s craving. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a meat-and-potatoes kind of person, there’s something on this list that’s sure to satisfy your appetite after a long day of hiking or exploring.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these camping dinner recipes and share some tips and tricks for making mealtime a breeze in the great outdoors. So grab your tent, your camp stove, and your appetite – it’s time to get cooking!
One-Pot Cheesy Campfire Pasta
This recipe combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the warmth and nostalgia of a campfire meal. With just one pot to clean, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a camping trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or macaroni)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot filled with chicken broth.
2. Add heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add butter and stir until melted.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly grill shrimp with garlic butter using a foil packet for an easy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Place shrimp in the center of a large piece of aluminum foil.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Fold the foil into a packet, making sure to seal it tightly.
6. Grill the packet for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Remove from grill and squeeze with lemon juice (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Campfire Chili with Cornbread Topping
Campfire Chili with Cornbread Topping: A hearty, one-pot wonder perfect for camping trips or cozy nights by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chili beans (such as kidney or black)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cornbread Topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Prepare Cornbread Topping (see below).
5. Top chili with cornbread topping and serve hot.
Cornbread Topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornmeal
– 1/2 cup crumbled butter, softened
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Add softened butter and buttermilk; stir until combined. Spread over chili just before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chili), 5-7 minutes (cornbread topping)
Dutch Oven Beef Stew
Hearty and flavorful, this Dutch oven beef stew is a comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of 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 the Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine beef cubes, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Mix well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven.
5. Cover the pot with the lid and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Skillet Sausage and Veggie Hash
Start your day with a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch with this easy-to-make Skillet Sausage and Veggie Hash. This recipe combines savory sausage, crispy potatoes, and sweet bell peppers for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the potatoes, onion, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Add the garlic and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Foil-Wrapped BBQ Chicken and Potatoes
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken and potatoes, all wrapped up in a convenient foil package. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts and potato chunks in the center of a large piece of aluminum foil.
4. Brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and potatoes.
5. Fold the foil into packets, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
6. Grill for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Tacos with Avocado Crema
Gather ’round the campsite and get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! These Campfire Tacos with Avocado Crema are a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and culinary delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or alternative protein)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Campfire-roasted vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire to medium-high heat and cook the ground beef in a cast-iron skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with campfire-roasted vegetables, ground beef mixture, and Avocado Crema.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Mash the avocados in a bowl until smooth. Stir in lime juice, salt, and sour cream. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including campfire-roasting time)
Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon Foil Packets
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and effortless recipe! Fresh salmon, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil into large squares (about 18″ x 18″).
3. Place a salmon fillet in the center of each foil square, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Add a slice of lemon, some rosemary, and thyme on top of the salmon.
5. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold foil over the ingredients to create a sealed packet.
7. Grill packets for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Campfire Pizza Sandwiches
Easy Campfire Pizza Sandwiches
Gather around the campfire and enjoy a delicious twist on traditional pizza with these easy-to-make sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Italian-style)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8-10 slices pepperoni
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or a skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the grill or in the skillet.
4. Top each slice with tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.
5. Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Carefully flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
Cozy up with this classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered together in a rich broth will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons of baking powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients; stir until a dough forms.
4. Place the chicken in the preheated Dutch oven. Pour in the chicken broth, carrots, and celery.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through and the chicken is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Spicy Campfire Jambalaya
A hearty, spicy twist on the classic campfire dish, perfect for a night around the flames with friends and family. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the warmth of campfire cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the campfire cooking grate or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in rice, water, diced tomatoes with green chilies, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Foil Packet Garlic Butter Steak and Mushrooms
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender steak, earthy mushrooms, and rich garlic butter in a convenient foil packet.
Ingredients:
- 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 foil packets, depending on size
Instructions:
- Precut the steak into smaller pieces and place in the center of each foil packet.
- Add a few slices of mushroom, a sprinkle of garlic, and a pat of butter to each packet.
- Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the steak reaches desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Campfire Mac and Cheese with Bacon
A comforting twist on a classic campfire favorite, this recipe adds crispy bacon to a creamy macaroni and cheese dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
8. Stir in crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers
Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a colorful addition to your next BBQ, these Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers are a flavorful and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, 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 of garlic, minced
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Olive oil, for brushing
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate vegetables and halloumi cubes on each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Savor the tender, juicy pulled pork from your Dutch oven and pile it high onto soft buns with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Soft buns for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Add sliced onions and minced garlic on top of the pork.
4. Pour in beer (if using) to cover about half of the pork.
5. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. Remove the lid and use two forks to pull apart the pork into tender shreds.
7. Serve on soft buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or BBQ sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Campfire Quesadillas with Salsa
Gather ’round the campsite and savor the flavors of these easy-to-make Campfire Quesadillas with Salsa. Perfect for a rustic getaway or a backyard bash, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken or beef
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire cooking grate or a large skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded cheese, chopped chicken or beef, onion, and bell pepper.
3. Place a tortilla on the preheated grill or skillet and sprinkle one-fourth 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 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Serve with your favorite salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting pasta dish, packed with tender mushrooms and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In the same pot, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start browning (about 5 minutes).
4. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Foil Packet Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to cook chicken and vegetables in one packet, with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken and vegetables in the center of a large piece of aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
5. Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a packet, making sure to seal it tightly.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Nachos with All the Fixings
Gather ’round the campsite and get ready for a deliciously easy snack that’s perfect for a night under the stars. This recipe combines the classic comfort of nachos with the thrill of cooking over an open flame.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned refried beans
– 1/4 cup diced cooked chicken or beef
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Cooking oil for greasing the griddle
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire grill or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Grease the griddle with a small amount of cooking oil.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on the griddle.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese, refried beans, and diced meat evenly over the chips.
5. Top with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeño, and a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packets
A delicious and easy-to-make summer dinner that’s perfect for a crowd. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, flavorful sausage, and tender vegetables all wrapped up in foil packets.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 sausage, shrimp, bell peppers, zucchinis, garlic, and olive oil on each square.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a packet.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes per side or until shrimp are pink and sausages are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your outdoor adventures with these delicious and easy camping dinner recipes! From hearty stews and chilies to tasty tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. One-Pot Cheesy Campfire Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, while Grilled Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp adds a touch of elegance to the great outdoors. For a comforting treat, try Dutch Oven Beef Stew or Campfire Mac and Cheese with Bacon. Whether you’re camping solo or with friends, these recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling full and happy.