Easy Camping Recipes | The Most Underrated Recipes

Tyler Sep 08, 2024
14 People Read
Cooking by the fire

In this article we are going to review easy camping recipes. These recipes are quick and simple to make an easy camping meal for you and your family. Camping food can be tricky, but in this guide we simplify the process for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first timer, these quick and easy campfire recipes will get your taste buds going and leave you wanting more.



Easy Camping Recipes

How to Make Campfire Nachos

When it comes to easy camping recipes, food that’s easy to prepare and reciprocate is key. What better way to satisfy your cravings than with a plate of campfire nachos? This recipe is perfect for outdoor cooking whether you’re in the woods or sitting around a bonfire at the beach. Plus it only requires a few ingredients and is ready in no time. This is one of my favorites for any camping trip I go on.

Layer a bed of tortilla chips on a piece of aluminum foil. Then add your favorite toppings – cooked ground beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of salsa for extra flavor.

Once everything is in place, wrap the foil around the nachos and place on the campfire grill or directly on the hot coals. Let it cook for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil packet from the fire and let it cool for a minute before digging in.



Dehydrated Fruits

Dehydrated fruits are a unique recipe for camping trips. I like recipes that I can make ahead of time and last throughout the entire camping trip.

You need a dehydrator for obvious reasons. My favorite fruits to dehydrate are apples and bananas. We have a full guide for dehydrating bananas and dehydrating apples. Dehydrating the fruits can take several hours. Use lemon juice to reduce browning. Dehydrated fruits can last weeks if stored properly!



Grilled Foil Packet Meals

Grilled foil packet meals are a must try for any camper. This recipe is for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time in nature. These are a staple for camping food. Make ahead camping meals can be prepped in advance for convenience, allowing you to enjoy your trip without the hassle of cooking on-site. With just a few ingredients and a grill you can create a flavorful and filling meal that will have everyone wanting more.

To make these grilled foil packet meals, start by choosing your protein – chicken, shrimp or even tofu for the vegetarians. Then add your favorite vegetables – potatoes, carrots and bell peppers to make a balanced and healthy meal. Season with your favorite spices and herbs – garlic, paprika and thyme to add flavor. Wrap everything in aluminum foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly so nothing escapes.

Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes or until everything is cooked through and tender. The best part is that these meals require minimal cleanup – just discard the foil after you’re done.



Campfire Cooking Pizza

This campfire pizza recipe is quick and easy to make and delivers a crispy crust and a flavor bomb. One of a few easy camping meals full of calories.

Prepare your pizza dough ahead of time and pack it in your camping gear. Once you’ve set up your campfire, stretch the dough onto a cast iron skillet or griddle and top with your favorite ingredients.

Whether you like classic margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil or something more adventurous, the options are endless. Place the skillet over the camp fire and let the flames do the work, cooking the pizza to perfection. You must have a nice open fire for this, make sure your skillet is small enough to fit over the fire. The heat from the fire will create a crispy crust and melt the cheese into a gooey, cheesy layer.

While the pizza is cooking take in the sights and sounds of nature around you. After 10-15 minutes the pizza should be done. Remove it from the heat, slice it up and enjoy every bite of this campfire comfort food.



One-Pot Pasta

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep you can have a delicious and filling meal in no time. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over your campfire or camp stove. Once the water is boiling add your favorite pasta – spaghetti, penne or fusilli.

Cook the pasta until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. While the pasta is cooking you can prepare the sauce. In a separate pan heat some olive oil and sauté chopped garlic until fragrant.

Add diced tomatoes, salt and your choice of herbs and spices. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Once the pasta is cooked drain it and add it to the saucepan with the tomato sauce.

Toss everything together until the pasta is coated. Serve hot and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor.


Camping Dessert Recipes S’mores Dip

Perfect for outdoor cooking this dessert has all the flavors of a traditional s’mores without the campfire. With just a few ingredients and a skillet you can have gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate in no time. To make this dip start by preheating your oven and greasing a cast iron skillet. Maple syrup can also be added as an optional topping to enhance the flavor.

Then add a layer of chocolate chips to the bottom of the skillet. Top with a layer of mini marshmallows, making sure they cover the chocolate completely. Place the skillet in the oven and let the magic happen. In a few minutes the chocolate will be melted and the marshmallows will be toasted.

Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Once it’s done remove it from the oven and serve with graham crackers for dipping.



Campfire Quesadillas

When it comes to outdoor cooking there’s nothing simpler or more delicious than campfire quesadillas. These cheesy treats are perfect for a quick and easy meal while in the great outdoors.

To make these tasty treats start by placing a tortilla on a piece of foil. Add your favorite toppings – shredded cheese, diced veggies and cooked meat. Don’t over load the tortilla so it cooks evenly. Another simple and delicious option for campfire cooking is hot dogs, which can be elevated with creative recipes and unique preparation methods.

Once your toppings are ready fold the tortilla in half and wrap it up in the foil. Place the foil wrapped quesadilla on a grill rack over the campfire and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. The heat from the fire will infuse the quesadilla with a smoky flavor that adds to the overall taste.

Once cooked unwrap the foil and place the quesadilla on a plate. Serve with salsa, guacamole or sour cream for extra flavor.



Easy Camping Meals For Family | Grilled Fruit Skewers

This is my personal favorite recipe and I use it every time I go camping with my family. These sweet and tangy treats are a great dessert option and a way to add some nutrition to your camping menu.

To make these skewers start by selecting your favorite fruits – pineapple, watermelon, strawberries and peaches. Cut them into bite sized pieces and thread onto skewers. The combination of flavors is up to you so get creative! Once your skewers are ready place them on a preheated grill over medium heat. Grill for a few minutes on each side until they have grill marks and the fruit is slightly tender.

The heat of the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit and makes them sweeter and smokier. You can serve them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They are a kid pleaser and an adult pleaser.

So next time you’re camping don’t forget to add this to your outdoor cooking list. Try this recipe on your next camping trip to make meal prep easy and enjoyable.

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Tyler