Campfire Recipes: Easy Outdoor Cooking Ideas

Campfire Recipes are a fun and delicious way to enjoy outdoor cooking while camping. From classic s’mores and foil packet meals to hearty stews and grilled skewers, these recipes make the most of open flames. Try simple dishes like roasted hot dogs, cheesy potatoes, or campfire nachos for easy prep. For a heartier meal, cook chili in a Dutch oven or grill marinated chicken over the fire. Desserts like banana boats and cobblers add a sweet touch. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, campfire recipes bring warmth, flavor, and adventure to any outdoor trip, making mealtime unforgettable. 

Campfire Recipes

Cooking over a campfire is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors while preparing delicious, hearty meals. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just spending an evening by the fire, these Camping food list  will make outdoor cooking a fun and tasty experience.

1. Classic Campfire Foil Packets

Why it’s great: Simple, no-mess cooking with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or sausage

• 2 cups diced potatoes

• 1 cup sliced bell peppers and onions

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt & pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat the campfire and let it burn down to hot coals.

2. Tear a large sheet of aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.

3. Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mix well, and divide evenly onto the foil.

4. Fold the foil into a sealed packet and place it on the campfire grate or directly on the coals.

5. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway.

6. Carefully open the packet and enjoy!

2. Campfire Skillet Breakfast (Eggs & Sausage)

Why it’s great: A protein-packed meal to start the day.

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs

• ½ lb sausage or bacon

• 1 cup diced potatoes

• ½ cup shredded cheese

• 1 tbsp butter

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over the campfire.

2. Cook the sausage or bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add butter and cook the potatoes until golden brown.

4. Crack the eggs directly over the potatoes and scramble lightly.

5. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, sprinkle with cheese, and let it melt.

6. Serve hot with toast or tortillas.

3. Campfire Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Why it’s great: Simple, quick, and satisfying comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4 slices of cheddar cheese

• Optional: ham, bacon, or tomato slices

Instructions:

1. Butter the outside of each bread slice.

2. Place cheese (and any extras) between two slices to make a sandwich.

3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill over the campfire.

4. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

5. Enjoy with soup or as a quick snack.

4. Campfire S’mores (Classic & Variations)

Why it’s great: A must-have for every camping trip!

Classic Ingredients:

• Graham crackers

• Marshmallows

• Chocolate bars

Instructions:

1. Roast a marshmallow over the fire until golden brown.

2. Place the marshmallow between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate.

3. Press gently and let the heat melt the chocolate.

Fun Variations:

• Peanut Butter S’mores – Add peanut butter between the graham crackers.

• Salted Caramel S’mores – Drizzle caramel and sprinkle sea salt.

• Nutella Banana S’mores – Spread Nutella and add banana slices.

5. Campfire Chili in a Dutch Oven

Why it’s great: A warm and hearty meal perfect for chilly nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 can kidney beans

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place a Dutch oven over the campfire and brown the ground beef.

2. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until soft.

3. Pour in diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and seasonings.

4. Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve hot with bread or over rice.

6. Campfire Baked Potatoes

Why it’s great: Easy to prepare and pairs well with any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper

• Optional toppings: cheese, sour cream, bacon, chives

Instructions:

1. Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil.

2. Place directly on hot coals and cook for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally.

3. Carefully unwrap, cut open, and add your favorite toppings.

7. Campfire Hot Dogs & Skewers

Why it’s great: Quick, fun, and perfect for kids.

Ingredients:

• Hot dogs

• Hot dog buns

• Mustard, ketchup, relish

• Optional: skewered veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)

Instructions:

1. Skewer the hot dogs and hold them over the fire, turning until evenly charred.

2. Toast the buns over the fire for extra flavor.

3. Serve with toppings and enjoy with grilled vegetables.

8. Campfire Banana Boats (Healthy Dessert Option)

Why it’s great: A sweet treat with natural ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas

• ½ cup chocolate chips

• ½ cup mini marshmallows

• ¼ cup crushed nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Slice each banana lengthwise without cutting all the way through.

2. Stuff with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and nuts.

3. Wrap in foil and place on the fire for 10 minutes until melted.

4. Carefully unwrap and enjoy with a spoon.

Final Tips for Campfire Cooking

✔ Use heavy-duty foil for easy cleanup.
✔ Prep ingredients beforehand to save time.
✔ Control the heat by adjusting the firewood or moving food closer/farther from the flames.
✔ Always follow fire safety when cooking outdoors.