15 Over The Fire Recipes You Must Try Next Camping Trip
Camping is better when the food’s sizzling, smoky, and made right over the flames. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just tagging along for the s’mores, these over-the-fire recipes go beyond hot dogs and take your outdoor eats to a whole new level. Here are 15 easy, delicious, and totally campfire-worthy meals and snacks you’ll want to try on your next trip.
1. Campfire Nachos
Picture this: a starry sky overhead and the sound of crackling firewood. In this serene setting, a mouthwatering dish of campfire nachos comes to life. Layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and jalapeños in a cast-iron skillet. Cover and let the magic of the flames work their charm. The result? A gooey, melty masterpiece. It’s the perfect blend of crunch and spice, mirroring the warmth of the campfire itself. Whether shared among friends or savored solo, these nachos are a camping classic that promises both comfort and indulgence in every bite.
2. Foil Packet Garlic Butter Shrimp
Imagine the scent of garlic and lemon wafting through the cool evening air. Foil packet garlic butter shrimp offers a swift yet sumptuous dining experience. Toss shrimp with garlic, lemon, and herbs. Seal in foil and place over glowing coals. The heat infuses every bite with rich flavors, creating a dish that is both refreshing and indulgent. Easy to prepare, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet delight. Perfect for those who seek elegance without effort, it’s a testament to how simplicity can lead to something truly extraordinary.
3. Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Who says pizzas are only for the oven? The cast iron skillet pizza defies conventions by bringing this beloved dish to the heart of the wilderness. Stretch pizza dough into a skillet, add sauce and cheese, and witness the fire’s warmth create a bubbly, golden delight. The contrast of crispy base and gooey toppings is a testament to rustic culinary innovation. It’s an experience that combines the joy of pizza with the thrill of an open fire, ensuring every slice is as adventurous as your camping journey.
4. Fire-Grilled Veggie Skewers
Embrace the art of grilling with fire-grilled veggie skewers. Marinated zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms are skewered and grilled until they char to perfection. Each bite offers a medley of textures and flavors, capturing the essence of the great outdoors. Ideal for vegetarians and health enthusiasts, these skewers celebrate simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, they promise a culinary experience that’s both nourishing and delightful. It’s a vivid reminder of how nature’s bounty can be transformed into a feast over an open flame.
5. Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Mornings by the campfire are incomplete without campfire breakfast burritos. Scramble eggs, sausage, and peppers, then wrap in tortillas and foil. Warm them over the fire, and enjoy a no-mess breakfast that’s both filling and flavorful. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and smoky, perfect for starting your day. This dish embodies the essence of convenience without compromising on taste, making it a staple for any outdoor adventure. Whether you’re an early riser or a late starter, these burritos cater to all camping appetites.
6. Dutch Oven Chili
As the evening chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of Dutch oven chili simmering over the fire. Hearty and spicy, it’s the ultimate comfort food for cooler nights. The aroma alone is enough to entice anyone nearby. This dish allows you to relax while it cooks to perfection with minimal effort. A staple for any camping trip, it brings people together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment. The rich flavors and thick consistency make it a satisfying meal after a long day in the wild.
7. Fire-Roasted Street Corn
Transform ordinary corn into a gourmet delicacy with fire-roasted street corn. Grill ears of corn in their husks directly over the flames. Once charred, slather them in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The result is a tantalizing blend of smoky and tangy flavors. It’s a dish that brings a taste of the city to the wilderness, offering a unique culinary twist to your camping menu. Fire-roasted street corn is more than a side dish—it’s an experience that encapsulates the vibrancy of outdoor dining.
8. Sausage and Potato Foil Packs
Sausage and potato foil packs are a campfire favorite that combines simplicity with rich, hearty flavors. Imagine sliced potatoes, savory sausage, and onions wrapped in foil, cooking in the coals. As the heat penetrates, the ingredients meld into a comforting meal that satisfies any hunger. Convenient and mess-free, these packs are perfect for campers seeking a hassle-free dining experience. With each unwrapped foil pack, you unveil a blend of textures and aromas that highlight the rustic charm of outdoor cooking.
9. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Elevate your campfire cooking with bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles. Wrap fresh asparagus spears with bacon and grill them until the bacon is crispy and the veggies are tender. The contrast between the smoky bacon and the fresh asparagus creates a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into a gourmet treat. Ideal for those seeking a touch of elegance in their outdoor meals, these bundles are a testament to the versatility of campfire cuisine.
10. Campfire Quesadillas
Campfire quesadillas offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Fill tortillas with cheese, beans, or leftover meat, fold them, and cook in a skillet or wrapped in foil. The result is a warm, crispy delight infused with smoky flavors from the fire. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, these quesadillas are versatile and easy to make. Their simplicity doesn’t detract from the rich taste, making them a beloved choice for campers looking for a meal that’s both familiar and exciting.
11. Grilled Pineapple Slices
Add a touch of sweetness to your camping trip with grilled pineapple slices. Brush them with a hint of brown sugar and cinnamon, then grill until caramelized. The heat brings out the natural sugars, creating a dessert—or breakfast—that’s both delicious and refreshing. This dish is a delightful surprise for those seeking something different from the usual campfire fare. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with other dishes, these pineapple slices are a fruity treat that add a tropical twist to your outdoor culinary adventures.
12. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers bring a burst of color and flavor to any campfire meal. Cut the tops off, fill them with rice, beans, cheese, and taco meat, then wrap in foil and let them cook near the fire. The result is a savory, wholesome dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for individual servings, these peppers are both visually appealing and satisfying. They capture the essence of hearty campfire cooking, ensuring every bite is as fulfilling as the stunning surroundings of your campsite.
13. Campfire Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the comfort of campfire mac and cheese, a beloved classic reimagined for the outdoors. Pre-cook pasta, then mix with cheese and milk in a foil pan. Cover and heat over the fire until bubbling. The result is a creamy, cheesy delight that warms both the heart and soul. Perfect for campers seeking a taste of home, this dish offers a nostalgic experience in a rustic setting. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, campfire mac and cheese is a testament to the timeless appeal of simple pleasures.
14. Banana Boats
Banana boats are a fun and delicious way to end your campfire meals. Split a banana in the peel, stuff it with chocolate chips and marshmallows, wrap in foil, and roast until gooey. This dessert is a sweet lover’s dream, combining the tropical taste of bananas with the decadence of melted chocolate. Easy to prepare, banana boats bring a playful element to campfire cooking. Whether you’re camping with family or friends, these treats promise smiles and satisfaction around the glowing embers of the fire.
15. Fire-Grilled Burgers
Fire-grilled burgers are the epitome of classic campfire cuisine. Form patties ahead of time and grill them over the flames. Add cheese, buns, and all the fixings for a surefire win. The smoky char from the flames enhances the natural flavors, creating a burger that’s both juicy and flavorful. A staple for any camping trip, these burgers offer a hearty meal that satisfies both the appetite and the soul. Perfect for sharing, they bring a sense of togetherness and celebration to the campfire experience.