Camping is all about enjoying the great outdoors, and a big part of that experience is sharing delicious meals around the campfire.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, having easy, tasty, and satisfying dinner recipes on hand makes all the difference.
From foil packet meals and hearty stews to quick stir-fries and creative snacks, camping dinners should be simple to prepare but full of flavor.
In this article, we’ve gathered over 21 camping dinner recipes that are perfect for fueling your adventures—each designed to be cooked with minimal equipment and maximum taste.
21+ Easy and Delicious Camping Dinner Recipes for Your Next Trip
With these 21+ camping dinner recipes, you’re all set to enjoy flavorful, satisfying meals no matter where your outdoor journey takes you.
These recipes focus on simplicity, ease, and adaptability, making it easy to feed your group without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Whether you prefer smoky foil packets, quick skillet dishes, or cozy one-pot meals, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here to make your camping dinners something to look forward to.
So pack your ingredients, grab your cookware, and get ready to create memorable meals under the stars.
Campfire Chili
Campfire chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for satisfying hungry campers after a day outdoors.
This recipe combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices into a rich, warming stew that’s easy to cook over a campfire or portable stove.
It’s ideal for feeding a group and provides the perfect balance of protein and fiber to keep you energized.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or turkey
- Canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chili powder, cumin, paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Start by heating olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or pot over your campfire or stove. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and softened. Add ground meat, breaking it up and cooking until browned. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beans and tomatoes, stirring well. Cover and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheese or sour cream.
Campfire chili is a classic camping meal that’s not only filling but also flexible—you can easily adapt ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Its rich flavors and comforting warmth make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing stories around the fire after a long day.
Foil Packet Salmon
Foil packet salmon is a simple and delicious way to prepare a nutritious dinner while camping, requiring minimal cleanup.
This method locks in moisture and flavor, allowing the salmon to steam gently alongside fresh vegetables and herbs.
It’s an effortless yet impressive meal that highlights the natural taste of the fish.
Ingredients:
- Salmon fillets
- Lemon slices
- Cherry tomatoes
- Asparagus or green beans
- Olive oil
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil and place the salmon fillet in the center. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and top with lemon slices and herbs. Arrange vegetables around the salmon. Fold the foil into a sealed packet. Cook over campfire coals or on a grill for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Foil packet salmon is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to camping dinner.
The steam created inside the foil keeps the fish tender and juicy while the vegetables become perfectly cooked.
It’s a healthy, satisfying meal with very little fuss.
One-Pot Pasta
One-pot pasta is a convenient and versatile camping recipe that minimizes cleanup without sacrificing taste.
By cooking pasta, sauce, and vegetables together in a single pot, it’s a quick way to enjoy a hearty and comforting meal in the great outdoors.
This recipe is perfect when you want something warm and filling after a day of hiking or fishing.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice
- Canned diced tomatoes or marinara sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Spinach or kale
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Grated parmesan (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sliced bell peppers and cook briefly. Pour in canned tomatoes or marinara sauce along with enough water or broth to cook the pasta. Bring to a boil and add pasta, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, add leafy greens and Italian seasoning. Once the pasta is tender and sauce thickened, season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with parmesan if desired.
This one-pot pasta is a wonderfully flexible camping dinner that delivers comforting, homey flavors with minimal effort.
It’s easy to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand, making it an ideal recipe for outdoor adventures where simplicity and taste are key.
Dutch Oven Roast
Dutch oven roast is a classic camping dinner that transforms simple ingredients into a tender, flavorful meal.
Using a cast-iron Dutch oven over hot coals, this recipe slowly cooks beef with vegetables and herbs, resulting in a savory dish that’s perfect for sharing around the campfire.
Ingredients:
- Beef roast (such as chuck or brisket)
- Carrots, chopped
- Potatoes, cubed
- Onion, sliced
- Garlic cloves
- Beef broth
- Fresh rosemary and thyme
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over campfire coals. Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned. Remove roast and sauté onions and garlic in the pot until softened. Return the roast to the Dutch oven and add broth, carrots, potatoes, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with the lid and cook slowly over coals for several hours until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
This Dutch oven roast is an ideal camping meal for those who enjoy hearty, slow-cooked dishes.
The long, slow cooking process allows flavors to develop deeply, while the tender meat and vegetables provide satisfying comfort after a day outdoors.
Campfire Nachos
Campfire nachos are a fun, shareable dinner perfect for camping nights by the fire.
Layered with melted cheese, beans, veggies, and your favorite toppings, these nachos come together quickly using a cast-iron skillet or foil packet.
Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Canned black beans, drained
- Diced tomatoes
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Green onions, chopped
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
Instructions:
In a cast-iron skillet or foil tray, layer tortilla chips, cheese, black beans, tomatoes, and jalapeños. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top. Cover with foil and place over campfire coals or grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with green onions and serve with sour cream and salsa.
Campfire nachos are an easy and satisfying camping dinner that brings everyone together.
They’re customizable, quick to make, and deliver all the cheesy, spicy flavors you crave with minimal cleanup.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
Grilled veggie skewers are a colorful and healthy camping dinner option that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Threaded with seasonal vegetables and brushed with a flavorful marinade, they grill quickly over an open flame for a smoky, charred finish.
Ingredients:
- Bell peppers, cut into chunks
- Zucchini slices
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion wedges
- Mushrooms
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make a marinade. Thread vegetables onto skewers and brush generously with marinade. Grill over campfire or portable grill for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until veggies are tender and slightly charred.
Grilled veggie skewers are a fantastic camping dinner for those wanting something light, fresh, and packed with flavor.
They’re versatile, nutritious, and bring vibrant color to your campsite meals.
Breakfast for Dinner Skillet
Breakfast for dinner skillet is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for camping when you want something easy and filling.
Loaded with eggs, potatoes, veggies, and sausage or bacon, this dish comes together in one pan for simple cooking and cleanup.
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Potatoes, diced
- Bell peppers, chopped
- Onion, diced
- Sausage or bacon, cooked and chopped
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over the campfire or stove. Cook potatoes until golden and tender. Add bell peppers, onions, and cooked sausage or bacon; sauté until softened. Create small wells in the mixture and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs reach your preferred doneness. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.
This skillet meal is a classic comfort food that’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
It’s a satisfying, protein-packed dinner that feels like a warm hug after a day outdoors.
Campfire Quesadillas
Campfire quesadillas are a quick, tasty dinner perfect for camping trips.
They’re easy to assemble, cook fast over the fire, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit everyone’s taste.
Ingredients:
- Flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese
- Cooked chicken, beans, or veggies (optional)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salsa or guacamole for serving
Instructions:
Heat a skillet or grate over the campfire. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle cheese evenly over half of it, and add any desired fillings. Fold the tortilla over and cook until golden brown and cheese is melted, flipping once. Brush the outside lightly with oil or butter for extra crispiness. Serve with salsa or guacamole.
Quesadillas are a crowd-pleasing camping meal that’s quick, portable, and endlessly customizable.
They’re great for satisfying hunger without fuss and minimal cleanup.
Skillet Mac and Cheese
Skillet mac and cheese is a creamy, indulgent camping dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare outdoors.
Using simple ingredients, you can enjoy a classic comfort food that’s perfect after a day of hiking or exploring.
Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk or cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: cooked bacon or breadcrumbs
Instructions:
Cook macaroni in a pot until al dente and drain. In the same skillet, melt butter over the fire and stir in flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Add cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Return pasta to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Top with cooked bacon or breadcrumbs if desired and warm through.
This skillet mac and cheese is a warm, comforting dish that feels like a treat while camping.
It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for refueling after a day outdoors.
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Grilled chicken foil packets are a convenient and flavorful camping dinner that requires minimal prep and cleanup.
Juicy chicken breasts cook alongside fresh vegetables and seasonings, all sealed in foil to lock in moisture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Zucchini, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Place chicken breasts on large pieces of foil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Arrange sliced vegetables around the chicken. Fold the foil into a sealed packet. Grill over campfire coals or on a grill for about 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
These foil packets are a hassle-free, nutritious option that’s perfect for camping.
They’re easy to customize with your favorite veggies and seasonings, and the foil keeps everything juicy and flavorful.
Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Campfire breakfast burritos are a satisfying, portable dinner idea that doubles as breakfast the next day.
Filled with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and sausage or beans, they’re easy to assemble and cook over a campfire.
Ingredients:
- Large flour tortillas
- Eggs, scrambled
- Cooked sausage or beans
- Cooked diced potatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
Scramble eggs in a skillet over the campfire. Warm tortillas and layer them with eggs, sausage or beans, potatoes, and cheese. Add salsa or hot sauce if desired. Roll up tightly and wrap in foil. Place foil-wrapped burritos on hot coals or grill for a few minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
These burritos are filling, delicious, and easy to eat by the campfire. They’re perfect for a comforting dinner or quick breakfast on the go.
Veggie and Sausage Skewers
Veggie and sausage skewers are a colorful, flavorful camping dinner that’s quick to prepare and grill.
Combining savory sausage pieces with fresh vegetables, these skewers deliver a balanced and tasty meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Smoked sausage, sliced into chunks
- Bell peppers, cut into squares
- Red onion wedges
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and paprika
Instructions:
Thread sausage and vegetables alternately onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Grill over campfire or portable grill, turning occasionally, until sausage is heated through and vegetables are slightly charred and tender.
These skewers are a fun and easy dinner option for camping that everyone can enjoy.
They cook quickly, are packed with flavor, and make for easy cleanup.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and easy camping dinner that combines vibrant vegetables with a savory filling.
You can customize the stuffing with rice, beans, or ground meat, making it a hearty and satisfying meal cooked right over the campfire or on a portable grill.
Ingredients:
- Bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Black beans or cooked ground beef
- Diced tomatoes
- Onion, chopped
- Shredded cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and chili powder
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix cooked rice, beans or meat, tomatoes, onion, and seasonings. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed bell peppers. Drizzle peppers with olive oil and wrap each in foil. Place on campfire coals or grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender. Top with cheese during the last few minutes to melt.
These stuffed peppers are a colorful and nutritious camping dinner that’s easy to prepare and enjoy outdoors.
The combination of flavors is comforting, and the foil packet cooking keeps things simple.
Campfire Jambalaya
Campfire jambalaya is a flavorful and filling one-pot meal inspired by Cajun cuisine.
It’s perfect for camping because it uses simple ingredients and cooks all together, combining rice, sausage, vegetables, and spices for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
- Andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced
- Onion, bell pepper, and celery, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Long-grain rice
- Chicken broth
- Cajun seasoning
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a pot over the campfire. Cook sausage until browned. Add onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, broth, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
This jambalaya is a hearty and spicy camping dinner that’s perfect for warming up after outdoor adventures.
Its rich, layered flavors and simple cooking method make it a favorite among campers.
Campfire Pizza
Campfire pizza is a fun and creative camping dinner that lets you enjoy the classic flavors of pizza cooked right over the fire.
Using pre-made dough and your favorite toppings, it’s a customizable meal that’s quick and delicious.
Ingredients:
- Pre-made pizza dough or flatbread
- Tomato sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni, vegetables, or other toppings
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
Instructions:
Stretch pizza dough or place flatbread on a cast-iron skillet or foil. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, sprinkle with cheese, and add toppings. Cover with foil and place over campfire coals or on a grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is cooked through.
Campfire pizza is a crowd-pleasing dinner that brings the joy of pizza to the outdoors.
It’s easy to prepare, fun to customize, and perfect for sharing around the campfire.
Sausage and Potato Foil Packets
Sausage and potato foil packets are a simple, hearty camping dinner that cooks evenly over the fire with minimal fuss.
The combination of savory sausage and tender potatoes roasted with onions and seasonings makes for a satisfying meal perfect after a day of outdoor adventures.
Ingredients:
- Smoked sausage, sliced
- Baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- Onion, sliced
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
Toss potatoes, sausage, and onion with olive oil and seasonings in a bowl. Divide the mixture among large pieces of foil, then fold into sealed packets. Place the packets on hot campfire coals or a grill for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until potatoes are tender and sausage is cooked through.
These foil packets are great for camping because they’re easy to prep ahead, customizable, and make cleanup a breeze.
The flavors meld beautifully while cooking, resulting in a warm and filling dinner.
Campfire Shakshuka
Campfire shakshuka is a vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal of eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce.
It’s a great camping dinner that’s both comforting and packed with bold flavors, cooked simply over a fire.
Ingredients:
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Bell peppers, diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Eggs
- Olive oil
- Paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or pan over the campfire. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft. Add diced tomatoes and spices, simmer until thickened. Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs are set to your liking. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Shakshuka is a warm, satisfying camping dinner that’s easy to make and share.
Its rich tomato base and perfectly cooked eggs offer a delicious way to end the day outdoors.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick, light, and tasty camping dinner option.
Marinated in simple herbs and garlic, the shrimp cook fast over the fire, delivering a smoky, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Thread shrimp onto skewers. Grill over campfire or portable grill for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
These shrimp skewers are perfect for campers wanting a light, protein-packed dinner.
They cook quickly and pair well with grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Campfire Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Campfire beef and veggie stir fry is a quick and flavorful dinner perfect for outdoor cooking.
Thinly sliced beef cooks fast over the fire, combined with colorful vegetables and a simple soy-based sauce that brings everything together.
Ingredients:
- Thinly sliced beef (like flank or sirloin)
- Broccoli florets
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Onion, sliced
- Soy sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over the campfire. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add beef and cook until browned. Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp. Pour in soy sauce, toss everything well, and cook for another minute or two. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This stir fry is a fantastic camping dinner because it’s fast, easy, and packed with protein and veggies.
It’s great for refueling after a day of hiking or fishing and can be served over rice or noodles if you have them on hand.
Campfire Veggie Chili
Campfire veggie chili is a warming, hearty dinner that’s perfect for camping trips.
Loaded with beans, vegetables, and bold spices, this chili can be made in one pot over the fire, offering a satisfying vegetarian option that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
- Canned black beans and kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Onion, chopped
- Bell peppers, chopped
- Corn kernels
- Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a pot over the campfire. Sauté onions and bell peppers until softened. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, and spices. Stir well and simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This veggie chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and makes for a filling, comforting meal after outdoor adventures. It’s perfect served with bread or tortilla chips.
Campfire Breakfast Hash
Campfire breakfast hash is a versatile and hearty dinner that works great at the campsite.
Combining diced potatoes, sausage or bacon, and veggies, it’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
- Diced potatoes
- Sausage or bacon, cooked and chopped
- Onion, chopped
- Bell peppers, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over the campfire. Cook potatoes until golden and nearly tender. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in cooked sausage or bacon, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and slightly crispy.
This breakfast hash is perfect for any time of day, offering a flavorful, filling meal that’s easy to make and clean up while camping.
Conclusion
Camping dinners don’t have to be complicated to be delicious and memorable. These 21+ recipes offer a variety of flavors and cooking styles that cater to all tastes and skill levels. From quick quesadillas and hearty chilis to grilled skewers and comforting pastas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the simplicity of outdoor cooking, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and most importantly, savor every bite surrounded by nature. With these recipes, your camping meals will be just as enjoyable as the adventure itself.
