Top 10 Foods To Cook When Camping

When it comes to camping, one of the highlights is cooking delicious meals over an open fire. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie to the great outdoors, having a list of top 10 foods to cook when camping can make your trip even more enjoyable. So, grab your camping gear and get ready to indulge in some mouth-watering campfire meals!

1. Foil Packets

Foil packets are a camping staple that allows you to mix and match your favorite ingredients. Wrap up a combination of seasoned meat, vegetables, and potatoes, and let the fire work its magic. It’s easy to prepare, cook, and clean up, making it a perfect camping meal.

2. Sausage and Veggie Skewers

Skewers are a fun and interactive way to cook a meal while camping. Thread sausage pieces, colorful veggies, and seasonings onto skewers and grill them over the fire. The aroma alone will make you hungry, and the taste will satisfy your outdoor cravings.

3. Campfire Pizza

Yes, you read that right – pizza while camping! Pack pre-made pizza dough, marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Roll out the dough, top it with all the goodies, and grill it over the fire for a camping-friendly pizza night that’s sure to be a hit.

4. Campfire Quesadillas

Quesadillas are quick, easy, and adaptable to your taste preferences. Simply fill tortillas with cheese, cooked chicken or beef, veggies, and any additional toppings you desire. Cook them in a cast-iron skillet over the fire until the cheese melts and the tortillas turn golden brown.

5. Pancakes

Nothing beats waking up to the smell of freshly cooked pancakes in the great outdoors. Pack pancake mix, water, and your favorite toppings. Get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts. Cook them on a griddle or cast-iron skillet over the fire, creating a breakfast that will fuel your camping adventures.

6. Campfire Chili

Warm up on chilly camping nights by cooking a hearty pot of campfire chili. Prepare a meaty or vegetarian version using canned beans, diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices of your choice. Let it simmer in a Dutch oven over the fire for a comforting and satisfying meal.

7. Campfire Corn-on-the-Cob

Corn-on-the-cob cooked over a campfire takes on a smoky and delicious flavor. Soak unhusked corn in water for about 30 minutes, then place it directly on the hot coals. Turn the corn occasionally until the husks become charred and the kernels are tender. Slather on some butter and seasonings for a classic camping side dish.

8. Campfire Mac and Cheese

Indulge your cheesy cravings with a classic campfire favorite – mac and cheese. Cook pasta on a camp stove, then mix it with a cheesy sauce made from a blend of your favorite cheeses. Transfer it to a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and let it bake over the fire until golden and bubbly.

9. Campfire S’mores

No camping trip is complete without s’mores! Roast marshmallows over the fire and sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate squares. The gooey and chocolatey combination will bring back childhood memories and satisfy your sweet tooth.

10. Campfire Fruit Packets

End your camping meals on a healthy and refreshing note with campfire fruit packets. Pack a combination of your favorite fruits, such as pineapple, berries, and bananas, into foil packets. Add a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of cinnamon, then grill them over the fire until the fruits are juicy and caramelized.

Next time you head out on a camping adventure, make sure to try these top 10 foods to cook over a campfire. From savory foil packets to sweet s’mores, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Happy camping and happy cooking!

Share your favorite camping recipes and discuss the top 10 foods to cook when camping in the Meal Planning and Prep forum.

FAQ:

Can I cook fresh meats and vegetables when camping?

Yes, absolutely! Cooking fresh meats and vegetables can be a delicious and healthy option when camping. Bringing along a portable grill or a cast iron pan allows you to cook a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables directly over the campfire or on a camp stove.

What are some easy breakfast options for camping?

There are several easy breakfast options for camping. You can prepare oatmeal packets or overnight oats ahead of time, which can be easily heated with some hot water. Another quick and tasty option is cooking up some scrambled eggs with pre-chopped vegetables or bacon on a camping stove. Don’t forget to pack some instant coffee or tea bags for a morning beverage!

How can I make camping meals more exciting?

To make camping meals more exciting, consider trying out some creative recipes. One idea is to make foil packet meals, where you combine vegetables, protein (like chicken or fish), and seasonings in a foil pouch and cook it over the campfire. Another option is to bring along marinades or spices to add flavor to your meals. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients!

What are some kid-friendly camping meals?

When cooking for kids while camping, it’s best to stick to simple and familiar foods. Some kid-friendly camping meals include hot dogs cooked on a stick over the fire, grilled cheese sandwiches made on a portable stove, or even mini pizzas made on pre-made pizza crusts cooked over the campfire. It can also be fun to involve kids in the cooking process, allowing them to assemble their own kebabs or create their own foil packet meals.

Is it possible to cook desserts while camping?

Absolutely! There are numerous dessert options that can be made while camping. A classic camping dessert is s’mores, made by roasting marshmallows over the fire and sandwiching them between graham crackers and chocolate. Another easy dessert option is to bring along pre-made cookie dough and bake it in a cast iron skillet over the campfire. Additionally, you can make grilled fruit skewers or campfire banana boats by stuffing bananas with chocolate chips and marshmallows, and wrapping them in foil before cooking them over the fire.

Can I cook pasta while camping?

Yes, you can definitely cook pasta while camping! It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. One easy option is to cook pasta and mix it with a jarred pasta sauce for a quick and filling meal. You can also make pasta salads ahead of time and store them in a cooler for a refreshing meal option. Just make sure to bring along a pot or Dutch oven to boil the water for cooking the pasta.

How can I keep food fresh while camping?

To keep food fresh while camping, it’s essential to have a well-insulated cooler or icebox. Pack perishable items such as meat, dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables in sealed containers or ziplock bags to prevent them from spoiling. It’s also important to keep the cooler in a shaded area and avoid opening it frequently to maintain the cold temperature. Consider using frozen water bottles instead of ice packs, as they can also serve as drinking water once they thaw.

Top 10 Foods To Cook When Camping