Imagine yourself in the great outdoors, surrounded by nature’s beauty and fresh air. Now picture yourself enjoying a scrumptious meal that perfectly combines the flavors of camping with the comforts of home. In this article, you will discover 7 mouthwatering glamping recipes that are not only delicious, but also incredibly easy to prepare. From hearty breakfasts to savory dinners, these recipes will elevate your camping experience and leave you wanting more. So get ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills as you embark on a gastronomic adventure under the open sky.
Campfire Cooking
Chili Cheese Cornbread
One of the most comforting and delicious campfire recipes is chili cheese cornbread. This mouthwatering dish combines the flavors of savory chili, gooey cheese, and the satisfying texture of cornbread. To make this crowd-pleasing meal, start by preparing your favorite chili recipe in a cast-iron skillet. Once the chili is cooked, simply top it with a layer of shredded cheese and pour the cornbread batter over it. Place the skillet on a grill or over the campfire, cover it, and let it cook until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm you up on those chilly nights in the great outdoors.
S’mores Cones
No camping trip is complete without indulging in some sweet and gooey s’mores. Take your s’mores game to the next level by making them in a cone! Start by filling a sugar or waffle cone with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers. Wrap the cone tightly in aluminum foil, making sure to seal it well. Place the wrapped cones on the campfire grill or directly onto the coals, and let them cook for a few minutes until the marshmallows are melted and the chocolate is gooey. Carefully remove the cones from the heat, unwrap them, and savor the delectable combination of melted chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. This fun twist on a classic camping treat is sure to be a hit with everyone around the campfire.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
For the veggie lovers out there, grilled veggie skewers are a must-try campfire dish. This colorful and healthy option allows you to take advantage of the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables. Start by chopping your favorite veggies into bite-sized pieces. Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating the colors and textures for an appealing presentation. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil, sprinkle them with your favorite herbs and seasonings, and place them on the grill over the campfire. Cook the skewers until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, turning them occasionally for even cooking. These grilled veggie skewers are not only delicious but also a great way to add some nutritious elements to your camping menu.
One-Pot Meals
Gourmet Campfire Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a cheesy delight with gourmet campfire mac and cheese. Forget about those boxed versions – this recipe takes mac and cheese to a whole new level of deliciousness. Start by boiling a pot of water over the campfire and cooking your preferred pasta until al dente. In a separate cast-iron skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and stir until the mixture thickens. Stir in a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan, until melted and creamy. Drain the cooked pasta and combine it with the cheese sauce in the skillet. For an extra twist, mix in some cooked bacon or diced jalapenos. Place the skillet back over the campfire for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve up a piping hot bowl of gourmet campfire mac and cheese.
Sausage and Bean Stew
A hearty and filling one-pot meal, sausage and bean stew is a perfect option for campfire cooking. Start by browning your favorite sausages in a Dutch oven or cast-iron pot over the campfire. Remove the sausages and set them aside, then add diced onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened. Return the sausages to the pot, along with canned beans (such as cannellini or black beans), chicken broth, and a blend of herbs and spices. Let the stew simmer over the campfire for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a comforting and flavorful stew that will keep you warm and satisfied during your camping adventures.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
For a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine in the great outdoors, try teriyaki chicken stir fry. This flavorful and colorful dish is perfect for those who crave a lighter and healthier meal while camping. Start by marinating diced chicken breast in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let the chicken soak up the flavors while you chop up a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, and carrots. In a large skillet or wok, cook the marinated chicken over the campfire until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet and stir fry them for a few minutes until crisp-tender. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in some teriyaki sauce, and toss everything together until well-coated. This vibrant and flavorful stir fry will add a burst of freshness to your camping menu.
Grilled Delights
Caprese Grilled Sandwiches
When it comes to quick and tasty grilled sandwiches, caprese grilled sandwiches are hard to beat. This simple yet satisfying option combines the freshness of tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, and the aromatic flavors of basil. Start by slicing fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese and layer them onto slices of bread, along with some fresh basil leaves. Drizzle the sandwich with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper. Grill the sandwich over the campfire, using a panini press or a cast-iron skillet, until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a grilled sandwich with an Italian twist.
BBQ Chicken Skewers
Nothing says summer like the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken skewers. These succulent and juicy skewers are a classic choice for outdoor grilling, and they are just as delicious when cooked over a campfire. Start by marinating diced chicken pieces in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least an hour. While the chicken is marinating, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the chicken onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple for added flavor and color. Grill the skewers over the campfire, turning them occasionally and basting them with additional BBQ sauce for that irresistible caramelized glaze. The result is tender and smoky BBQ chicken skewers that will transport you to a summer cookout wherever you may be camping.
Grilled Fruit Kabobs
Take advantage of the natural sweetness of fruits with grilled fruit kabobs. This refreshing and healthy option is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of various fruits while camping. Start by choosing a variety of fruits that can withstand grilling, such as pineapple, peaches, watermelon, and strawberries. Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers, alternating the colors and textures for an eye-catching presentation. Grill the fruit kabobs over the campfire, turning them occasionally until they are slightly caramelized and heated through. The heat of the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, creating a deliciously juicy and smoky treat. Grilled fruit kabobs can be enjoyed as a light dessert or even added to breakfast dishes like yogurt or pancakes for a burst of flavor.
Quick and Easy Breakfasts
Campfire French Toast
Start your mornings off right with campfire French toast. This classic breakfast dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily made over a campfire. Begin by whisking together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Dip slices of your favorite bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Place the soaked bread onto a greased cast-iron skillet or griddle over the campfire and cook it until golden brown on each side. Serve the French toast warm, drizzled with maple syrup and topped with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This delicious and comforting breakfast will energize you for a day full of outdoor adventures.
Egg and Veggie Foil Packets
For a convenient and nutritious breakfast that requires minimal cleanup, try egg and veggie foil packets. This customizable dish allows you to incorporate your favorite vegetables and flavors into a satisfying morning meal. Start by tearing off a large sheet of aluminum foil and folding it into a packet shape. Place a layer of diced vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, onto the foil. Crack an egg or two onto the vegetables and season them with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs you prefer. Fold the foil packet tightly, ensuring it is sealed well to prevent any leaks. Place the packet onto a grill or over the campfire and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness. Carefully open the foil packet, and enjoy your flavorful and protein-packed breakfast straight from the foil.
Blueberry Pancake Bites
Bring the taste of fluffy and delicious pancakes to your campsite with blueberry pancake bites. These bite-sized delights are perfect for a quick and easy breakfast on the go. Start by preparing a pancake batter using your preferred pancake mix or recipe. Stir in fresh blueberries to add a burst of sweetness and antioxidant-rich goodness. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a greased griddle or cast-iron skillet over the campfire and cook the pancake bites until golden brown on each side. Serve the blueberry pancake bites with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. These portable and flavorful breakfast treats will keep you energized and satisfied as you embark on your outdoor adventures.
Sweet Treats
Campfire Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge your sweet tooth with campfire cinnamon rolls. These gooey and irresistible treats are reminiscent of lazy Sunday mornings but can be enjoyed in the great outdoors. Start with a can of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and carefully wrap each individual roll around a greased and cleaned stick. Hold the stick with the dough over the campfire, rotating it slowly to ensure even cooking. After a few moments, the dough will start to puff up and turn golden brown. Carefully remove the cooked cinnamon roll from the stick and frost it with the accompanying glaze. The result is a warm and melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon roll with a slightly crispy exterior, perfect for satisfying your cravings around the campfire.
Chocolate Banana Boats
For a dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat, try chocolate banana boats. This simple and customizable treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while camping. Start by cutting a slit along the inside curve of a ripe banana, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff the slit with your favorite chocolate and toppings such as marshmallows, chopped nuts, or even a spoonful of peanut butter. Wrap the banana tightly in aluminum foil, making sure to seal it well. Place the wrapped banana on the grill or directly onto the coals of the campfire, and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until the chocolate is melted and the banana is slightly soft. Carefully unwrap the foil, and enjoy the oozing, warm, and decadent flavors of the chocolate banana boat. This delightful and customizable dessert will become a beloved camping tradition.
Fruit Pizza
A refreshing and vibrant dessert option for your camping adventures is fruit pizza. This fruity and flavorful treat is sure to impress your fellow campers and satisfy your sweet cravings. Start by rolling out a sugar cookie dough onto a greased and preheated cast-iron skillet. Cook the cookie dough over the campfire until it is golden brown and crispy. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the cookie crust cool. In a separate bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto the cooled cookie crust, and top it off with an assortment of fresh sliced fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, and oranges. Slice the fruit pizza into wedges and serve up this delightful and refreshing dessert that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Refreshing Beverages
Watermelon Lemonade
Stay hydrated and refresh your palate with watermelon lemonade. This colorful and thirst-quenching beverage is perfect for hot summer days spent camping. Start by blending fresh watermelon chunks until smooth and strain the mixture to remove any seeds or pulp. In a separate pitcher, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and your desired amount of honey or sugar to sweeten the lemonade. Stir in the strained watermelon juice and give it a good mix. Serve the watermelon lemonade over ice and garnish it with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of watermelon for an extra touch of freshness. This delightful and fruity drink will keep you cool and hydrated during your outdoor adventures.
Iced Tea with Fresh Mint
For a classic and refreshing beverage with a twist, try iced tea with fresh mint. This cooling and revitalizing drink is perfect for those lazy afternoons at the campsite. Start by brewing your preferred tea bags in boiling water. Add some fresh mint leaves to the hot tea, and allow it to steep for a few minutes. Remove the tea bags and mint leaves, and let the tea cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the tea over ice and serve it with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon, if desired. The combination of the tea’s natural flavors and the invigorating aroma of fresh mint will keep you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated while enjoying the great outdoors.
Fruit Infused Sparkling Water
Elevate the simple act of hydration with fruit-infused sparkling water. This refreshing and effervescent beverage is a perfect way to quench your thirst while enjoying the great outdoors. Start by choosing your favorite combination of fresh fruits such as strawberries, oranges, blueberries, or cucumbers. Slice the fruits and place them in a large pitcher or jug. Fill the pitcher with sparkling water and let it chill in a cooler or refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to infuse. Serve the fruit-infused sparkling water over ice and enjoy the delightful fizz and burst of flavors. This healthy and enticing drink is a fantastic alternative to sugary sodas and will keep you hydrated and refreshed during your camping adventures.
Snack Attack
Trail Mix Energy Balls
When hunger strikes between meals, satisfy your snack attack with trail mix energy balls. These portable and nutritious snacks are packed with energy-boosting ingredients and are perfect for keeping you fueled during your outdoor activities. Start by combining your favorite trail mix ingredients such as nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and chocolate chips in a bowl. Add some honey, nut butter, or maple syrup to bind the ingredients together and mix until well-combined. Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and refrigerate them for at least an hour to allow them to firm up. These flavorful and nutrient-dense energy balls are the perfect grab-and-go snack for hiking, biking, or any other physical activities during your camping trip.
Cheesy Popcorn
For a quick and satisfying snack that requires minimal effort, indulge in some cheesy popcorn. This savory treat is easy to make and will satisfy your cravings for something crispy and flavorful. Start by popping some popcorn kernels in a large pot over the campfire or using a campfire popcorn popper. Once the popcorn is ready, sprinkle it with grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and your preferred seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick of flavor. Toss the popcorn gently to ensure that the cheese and seasonings coat each kernel evenly. Pour the cheesy popcorn into a bowl and enjoy this addictive and cheesy snack while lounging around the campfire.
Dried Fruit and Nut Bark
For a snack that combines the wholesome goodness of dried fruits and nuts with a touch of indulgence, try dried fruit and nut bark. This delicious and nutrient-packed treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings while camping. Start by melting dark chocolate over a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over the campfire. Once melted, spread the chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle a mixture of chopped dried fruits such as apricots, cherries, and raisins, along with your favorite nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios, over the melted chocolate. Gently press down the toppings to ensure they stick to the chocolate. Place the baking sheet in a cool place or in a cooler to allow the chocolate to set. Once the bark is firm, break it into smaller pieces and enjoy the delightful combination of rich dark chocolate, chewy dried fruits, and crunchy nuts.
In conclusion, camping doesn’t have to mean sacrificing delicious meals and treats. With these comprehensive recipes, you can elevate your campfire cooking and enjoy a wide variety of flavorful and satisfying dishes. From savory one-pot meals to refreshing beverages and sweet treats, there is something to please everyone’s taste buds. So gather around the campfire, put on your chef’s hat, and embark on a gastronomic adventure in the great outdoors. Happy camping and happy cooking!
