Gather 'round the fire! Nothing beats the taste of a meal cooked over an open flame. Here are a few simple recipes perfect for your next camping trip.
The Classics
These recipes are reliable, simple, and satisfying. Remember to use a tripod, grate, or foil pack depending on the recipe!
1. Foil-Packet Sausage & Veggies
This is the ultimate easy cleanup meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Smoked sausage (sliced)
- 2 large Potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 Bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions
- Tear off a large sheet of foil.
- Toss the sausage, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in the center of the foil sheet.
- Fold the foil to create a sealed packet.
- Cook over medium coals or on a grate for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until potatoes are tender.
2. Campfire Chili in a Dutch Oven
A hearty meal to keep you warm on a cool night.
Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Ground Beef or Turkey | 1 lb | Brown before adding other ingredients |
Canned Diced Tomatoes | 14 oz | |
Canned Kidney Beans | 15 oz | Rinsed and drained |
Canned Black Beans | 15 oz | Rinsed and drained |
Chili Seasoning | 1 packet | Adjust to your spice preference |
To prepare the chili, brown the meat in a Dutch oven over the fire. Drain the fat, then stir in all the other ingredients. Simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with cornbread or cheese.
Sweet Treats
No campfire meal is complete without a delicious dessert!
1. S'mores Cones
A fun twist on the traditional s'more that contains everything neatly inside a cone.
Ingredients
- Waffle cones
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar
- Optional fillings (peanut butter, sliced banana, crushed graham crackers)
Instructions
- Fill the waffle cones with your desired ingredients (marshmallows and chocolate are essential).
- Wrap each cone tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the cones on a grate over the coals (or directly in the coals for a quicker, more intense heat) for 5-10 minutes, rotating frequently.
- Carefully unwrap and enjoy!
2. Banana Boats
This simple dessert is always a crowd-pleaser and involves minimal prep.
- Take a large, unpeeled banana.
- Slice the banana lengthwise down the middle, being careful not to cut through the bottom peel.
- Stuff the slit with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
- Wrap the banana in foil and place it on the coals for about 5-8 minutes, or until the chocolate and marshmallows are melted.
Tips for Campfire Cooking
For a safe and delicious cooking experience, always check the weather conditions and keep a bucket of water or sand nearby.
- Coals are Key: Cook over hot coals, not open flame. The flames will burn your food before it's cooked through.
- Safety First: Always use long-handled tongs and heat-resistant gloves.
- Stay Organized: Prep all your ingredients at home and store them in labeled containers to save time at the campsite.
- Check Local Rules: Ensure campfires are permitted at your location, like at the campground.