10 Easy Camping Meals for Stress-Free Cooking

Cooking on a camping trip doesn’t have to be a chore. With these 10 easy camping meals, you can keep mealtime simple and tasty, letting you spend more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time stressing over what to eat. From quick prep to minimal cleanup, these hassle-free recipes are all about deliciousness without the fuss.

No-Cook Mediterranean Pita Pockets

No-cook Mediterranean pita pockets are a delightful option for camping meals, combining fresh flavors with minimal prep. They are light, satisfying, and perfect for enjoying outdoors. With creamy hummus, crisp cucumbers, and juicy olives, you’ll get a burst of taste in every bite.

These pita pockets are not only easy to make but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a fun and interactive meal for everyone. Just grab your ingredients, assemble, and dig in!

 

Ingredients

• 4 whole wheat pita bread
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pita: Cut the pita bread in half to create pockets.
2. Spread Hummus: Generously spread hummus inside each pita pocket.
3. Add Vegetables: Layer in cucumber slices, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Top with Olives: Add Kalamata olives for a briny touch.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and enjoy!

Foil Packet Veggie and Sausage Bake

Foil packet cooking is an excellent way to enjoy a meal while camping, and this veggie and sausage bake is both flavorful and easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that combines the savory taste of sausages with a variety of colorful vegetables.

This recipe is perfect for a hassle-free camping experience, as it requires minimal cleanup and can be cooked over a campfire or on a grill. The combination of smoky sausage and tender veggies tossed in your favorite seasonings will have everyone at the campsite eagerly waiting for dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
• 1 cup onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Foil: Cut a large piece of aluminum foil, about 18 inches long. Place it on a flat surface.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the sliced sausage, baby potatoes, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
3. Assemble the Packet: Place the sausage and veggie mixture in the center of the foil. Fold the edges of the foil over to create a sealed packet, ensuring it’s tightly closed.
4. Cook: Place the foil packet on a grill or over the campfire. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is heated through.
5. Serve: Carefully open the foil packet, allowing steam to escape. Enjoy your delicious foil packet meal straight from the campfire!

Campfire Quesadillas with Cheese and Peppers

Campfire quesadillas are a simple and satisfying meal perfect for outdoor adventures. With gooey cheese and fresh peppers, these quesadillas deliver a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to please everyone around the campfire. They are easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, making them ideal for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Cooking these quesadillas over an open fire adds a smoky flavor that elevates the overall taste. You can customize them with your favorite veggies or even add some protein if desired. Gather your friends or family, and enjoy a cozy meal under the stars!

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or additional oil for grilling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the sliced bell peppers with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay out the tortillas and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on one half of each tortilla. Top with the pepper mixture and fold the tortillas in half.
3. Heat the Grill: Place a grill grate over the campfire or use a portable grill. Spray it with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Quesadillas: Place the folded quesadillas on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before slicing them into wedges. Serve warm with salsa or your favorite dipping sauce.

Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

Pasta salad with grilled chicken is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the fresh flavors of vegetables and the smoky taste of grilled chicken. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for outdoor dining, making it an ideal choice for camping trips. The colorful ingredients create a vibrant meal that is both satisfying and refreshing.

This dish can be customized to your taste, allowing you to mix in your favorite veggies, dressings, or pasta shapes. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, it packs well in a cooler and is sure to please everyone at your campsite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as bowtie or rotini)
• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and feta cheese.
4. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill: If possible, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
6. Serve: Enjoy your pasta salad cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect meal for any outdoor adventure.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and easy option for your next camping trip. These tacos combine the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with hearty black beans, making for a filling meal that’s packed with flavor. The addition of fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro enhances the taste and adds a refreshing crunch.

This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and just a short cooking time. With the ability to customize your toppings, you can make each taco unique to your taste. Perfect for a cozy campfire dinner, these tacos are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: In a pot over your campfire or portable stove, add diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of water and cover, cooking for about 10-15 minutes or until tender.
2. Warm the Black Beans: In a separate pot, heat the black beans until warm. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Place the corn tortillas over the fire for a few seconds on each side until they are warm and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, layer the sweet potato mixture, black beans, and your choice of toppings, such as avocado slices and salsa.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro and squeeze lime juice over the tacos for added flavor. Enjoy your tasty camping meal!

Quick Breakfast Burritos

Start your day right with quick breakfast burritos that are hearty and packed with flavor. These burritos combine fluffy scrambled eggs, colorful veggies, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. They’re perfect for busy mornings when you’re out camping or need to grab a bite on the go.

Not only are these burritos easy to make, but they also offer a customizable experience. You can add your favorite ingredients like salsa or avocado for an extra kick. This recipe is all about convenience and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for hassle-free camping meals.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/4 cup onion, diced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they are soft.
2. In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble until fully cooked.
3. Lay a tortilla flat and place a portion of the egg mixture in the center. Sprinkle with cheese and any additional toppings you like.
4. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up from the bottom to the top. Wrap it in foil if you prefer to keep it warm.
5. Serve immediately with salsa or hot sauce on the side.

S’mores Stuffed French Toast

S’mores Stuffed French Toast brings together two beloved campfire treats in a delicious and easy breakfast option. Picture soft, warm bread filled with gooey chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet flavors and comforting textures that will make your mornings around the campfire even more special.

This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for cooking outdoors. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up a meal that feels both indulgent and nostalgic. Whether you’re camping with friends or enjoying a family getaway, this French toast will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
• 1/2 cup chocolate bars, chopped
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for cooking

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped chocolate, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. Set aside.
2. Make the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Assemble the French Toast: Take two slices of bread and fill them with the chocolate and marshmallow mixture. Place the other two slices on top to create sandwiches.
4. Dip and Cook: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides, then place in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, cut in half, and enjoy your S’mores Stuffed French Toast warm, perhaps with a sprinkling of extra graham cracker crumbs on top!

One-Pan Campfire Chili

One-Pan Campfire Chili is the perfect meal for outdoor adventures. With a hearty combination of beans, meat, and spices, it offers rich flavors that warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just one pan and minimal cleanup—making it ideal for camping trips.

Gather around the fire with friends or family as this chili simmers over the flames. The aroma of spices and savory ingredients fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a chilly evening or just looking for a filling meal, this chili will surely satisfy everyone at the campsite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over the campfire, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and broth. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve with optional toppings and enjoy your campfire chili!

Campfire Pizza Made with Pre-made Dough

There’s nothing quite like the smell of pizza cooking over a campfire. It’s a simple meal that brings everyone together, whether you’re camping with friends or enjoying a family getaway. With pre-made dough, you can skip the hassle of making pizza from scratch and dive straight into the fun of customizing your toppings.

This campfire pizza offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, from the crispy crust to the melted cheese and savory toppings. It’s an easy and interactive way to enjoy a classic favorite outdoors, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 package pre-made pizza dough
• You need 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pre-made pizza dough on a clean surface to your desired thickness.
2. Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet or pizza pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Assemble the Pizza: Place the rolled-out dough in the pan, spreading the pizza sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and add your favorite toppings.
4. Cook Over the Fire: Place the pan over the campfire on a stable surface or grill grate. Cover it with a lid or aluminum foil and cook for about 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
5. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the pizza from the fire, let it cool for a minute, slice, and enjoy your delicious campfire pizza!

Hearty Lentil Soup in a Cast Iron Pot

Hearty lentil soup is a comforting dish that warms you up after a day of outdoor adventures. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s the perfect meal for camping. The smoky taste from cooking over an open fire adds a delicious twist, and the best part? It’s super simple to make!

This soup combines lentils, fresh vegetables, and spices to create a filling option that can be whipped up in no time. Just toss everything into your cast iron pot, let it simmer, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness under the stars.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your cast iron pot over the fire. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

On your next camping adventure you will be ready to fully enjoy your time away with these great food ideas.