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When you’re out in nature, the last thing you want is complicated meals that require tons of ingredients or gear. That’s why I always stick to simple, tasty camping recipes that pack well, cook fast, and keep everyone full and happy.
Whether you’re cooking over a fire, using a camp stove, or prepping meals ahead of time, these recipes are perfect for your next outdoor trip.
This list includes a mix of breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas that are easy to make at the campsite but still feel like real meals. Think foil packs, skewers, hearty snacks, and fire-friendly favorites that taste even better under the open sky.
1. Foil Packet Chicken and Veggies
I toss chicken chunks with bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, season everything, and wrap it in foil. Throw it over the fire or grill, and dinner’s done in about 20 minutes.
Author’s Note
Add a splash of olive oil and a slice of lemon to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Get the Foil Packet Chicken and Veggies recipe.
2. Campfire Breakfast Burritos
I make these at home with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and peppers, then wrap them in foil and reheat at camp. Perfect for breakfast without the mess.
Author’s Note
Wrap them in parchment first, then foil—it keeps the tortillas from getting soggy.
Get the Campfire Breakfast Burritos recipe.
3. Grilled Hot Dogs with Fixings
It’s a classic for a reason. Grill hot dogs on skewers or a grate and serve with buns, ketchup, mustard, and whatever toppings you like.
Author’s Note
Toast the buns on the fire for a few seconds for extra flavor and crunch.
Get the Grilled Hot Dogs with Fixings recipe.
4. Peanut Butter Banana Wraps
A quick, no-cook snack or breakfast. I spread peanut butter on a tortilla, add a whole banana, sprinkle with granola, and roll it up. Easy and energizing.
Author’s Note
Wrap them tightly in foil if you’re packing them for a hike—they hold up well.
Get the Peanut Butter Banana Wraps recipe.
5. Campfire Nachos
Layer tortilla chips, beans, cheese, and any other toppings in a cast iron pan or foil tray. Cover with foil and heat over the fire until melty.
Author’s Note
Add toppings like avocado or salsa after cooking so they stay fresh.
Get the Campfire Nachos recipe.
6. One-Pot Chili
I brown ground beef (or use canned beans for a vegetarian version), add tomatoes, beans, spices, and let it simmer on the camp stove. It’s hearty and perfect for cool nights.
Author’s Note
Bring premixed spices in a small container to save time and space at camp.
7. Campfire Grilled Cheese
I butter the outside of sandwich bread, add cheese in the middle, and cook it in a cast iron pan or foil until golden and melty.
Author’s Note
Use a foil packet if you don’t have a pan—just flip it once for even toasting.
Get the Campfire Grilled Cheese recipe.
8. Sausage and Pepper Skewers
Thread sliced sausage, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers and grill over the fire. They’re smoky, savory, and ready in under 15 minutes.
Author’s Note
Pre-chop and pack the ingredients in a resealable bag to save time at the site.
Get the Sausage and Pepper Skewers recipe.
9. Instant Oatmeal with Toppings
Boil water and pour it over quick oats in a bowl. Add toppings like dried fruit, nuts, or brown sugar for a warm and easy breakfast.
Author’s Note
Pre-pack individual servings in zip bags with mix-ins already included.
Get the Instant Oatmeal with Toppings recipe.
10. Campfire Pizza
Use pita bread or naan as the base, add sauce, cheese, and toppings, then heat on a grate over the fire until everything melts.
Author’s Note
Cover with foil for better melting and to prevent burning the bottom.
Get the Campfire Pizza recipe.
11. No-Cook Tuna Salad Wraps
Mix canned tuna with mayo or mustard and wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce or spinach. It’s filling, protein-rich, and no-cook.
Author’s Note
Use foil pouches of tuna—they’re lighter and pack easier than cans.
Get the No-Cook Tuna Salad Wraps recipe.
12. S’mores Banana Boats
Slice a banana down the middle (in the peel), stuff with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, wrap in foil, and heat over the fire.
Author’s Note
Let it cool a bit before eating—it gets super hot inside!
Get the S’mores Banana Boats recipe,
13. Chicken Quesadillas
I fill tortillas with cooked chicken and cheese, then fold and toast them in a pan or foil pack until crispy. Serve with salsa if you have it.
Author’s Note
Pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie leftovers work great here—less cleanup, more flavor.
Get the Chicken Quesadillas recipe.
14. Campfire Mac and Cheese
Mix cooked pasta with shredded cheese and a little milk in a foil tray. Heat over the fire, stir, and enjoy a gooey, cheesy comfort food outdoors.
Author’s Note
Use extra foil to cover tightly and avoid drying out the top.
Get the Campfire Mac and Cheese recipe.
15. Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches
Toast bagels on the fire, then add eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage. Great for a sit-down camp breakfast.
Author’s Note
Cook the eggs ahead at home and reheat if you want less mess in the morning.
Get the Bagel Breakfast Sandwiches recipe.
16. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Foil Packs
Dice sweet potatoes and mix with canned black beans, corn, and seasonings. Wrap in foil and cook until tender for a veggie-packed dinner.
Author’s Note
Cut the sweet potatoes into small pieces so they cook through faster over the fire.
Get the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Foil Packs recipe.
17. Trail Mix Yogurt Parfaits
Layer granola or trail mix with yogurt and fruit in cups or jars. Great for a quick breakfast or snack.
Author’s Note
Use Greek yogurt in squeeze pouches or a small cooler to keep things simple and mess-free.
