Easy Camping Recipes

Camping is one of the best ways to escape your busy everyday life. Whether you're hiking through the woods, lounging by a lake, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something magical about cooking and sharing meals under the stars. But, cooking while camping can be difficult and not fun if you dont know what you're doing . We have compiled a list of easy camping recipes that you can whip up using either a propane jet boil or a cast iron skillet. These recipes are simple, delicious, and require minimal ingredients and basic spices. Grab your gear, and let’s get cooking!

Why Use a Propane Jet Boil and Cast Iron Skillet?

A propane jet boil is a compact and efficient cooking system that boils water in minutes, making it great for hot meals in a hurry. It weighs around 1.5 pounds, making it easy to carry on any hike or backpacking trip.

On the other hand, a cast iron skillet is a camping essential. It retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for even cooking and the ability to sear meats and vegetables beautifully. It can withstand high temperatures and can be placed over an open flame or on a propane stove, making it versatile for all camping situations.

Check out these Easy Camping Recipes:

1. One-Pan Breakfast Hash

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast hash that’s simple to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 eggs

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil

  
  

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 10 minutes.

3. Stir in the bell pepper and onion, cooking until everything is tender.

4. Crack 3 or 4 eggs into the pan.

5. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5 minutes until the eggs are to your liking.

6. Season with salt and pepper before serving. For a little kick, use cracked red pepper.

   
   
   
   

   

   
   
   
   

2. Campfire Chili

Nothing warms you up like a bowl of chili after a long day of hiking. Chili can be as simple or as complex as you choose, this recipe is simple and can be modified according to your taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of kidney beans, drained

• 1 can of diced tomatoes

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sour Cream or (healthier option) Greek Yogurt

• Chives

  
  

Instructions:

1. In your cast iron skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper in a bit of olive oil until soft.

2. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Stir well and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Each serving can provide around 200-300 calories—perfect after a day outdoors!

   
   

3. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

A classic comfort food combo that’s easy to prepare while camping.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread

• 4 slices of cheese (like cheddar or American)

• 1 can of tomato soup

• Butter

  
  

Instructions:

1. Heat the tomato soup in your propane jet boil according to the can’s instructions.

2. While the soup is heating, butter one side of each slice of bread.

3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in your cast iron skillet. Add cheese on top and cover with the other slices of bread, butter-side up.

4. Cook each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Serve the grilled cheese with a warm bowl of tomato soup and enjoy a comforting meal!

   
   

4. Foil Packet Veggies

These foil packet veggies are a healthy side dish that can be cooked over the fire or on your propane stove.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

  
  

Instructions:

1. Cut a large piece of aluminum foil and place the mixed vegetables in the center.

2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

3. Fold the foil into a packet, sealing it tightly.

4. Place the packet on the grill or over the fire for about 15-20 minutes. The veggies will become tender and perfectly seasoned.

   
   

5. Campfire Quesadillas

These quesadillas are quick to make and can be filled with whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 4 tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cheese

• 1 cup cooked chicken or beans (optional)

• Salsa for serving

  
  

Instructions:

1. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat.

2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on top.

3. Add cooked chicken or beans if desired, then top with the remaining cheese and another tortilla.

4. Cook until the bottom tortilla is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook the other side.

5. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa for an easy meal.

   
   

6. Sweet Cinnamon Apples

For a sweet treat after dinner, these cinnamon apples are a delightful option.

Ingredients:

Delicious cinnamon apples cooking in a cast iron skillet

• 2 apples, sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  
  

Instructions:

1. In your cast iron skillet, melt the

   butter over medium heat.

2. Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar.

3. Cook until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Serve warm. This treat has around 150-200 calories and can be even more indulgent with a scoop of ice cream!

   
   

7. Campfire Pancakes

Start your day with fluffy pancakes that are easy to make in the great outdoors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix

• 1 cup water

• Maple syrup for serving

  
  

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the pancake mix and water until just combined.

2. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.

3. Pour batter into the skillet to form pancakes of your desired size.

4. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.

5. Serve with maple syrup. Each pancake is approximately 100-150 calories.

   
   

8. S’mores Nachos

A fun twist on the classic campfire treat, these s’mores nachos will please everyone.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of tortilla chips

• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers

  
  

Instructions:

1. In your cast iron skillet, layer the tortilla chips, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows.

2. Place the skillet over the fire or on your propane stove until the chocolate melts and the marshmallows are toasted.

3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers before serving. These nachos can be quite rich, so small portions are perfect!

   
   

9. Campfire Pasta

This one-pot pasta dish is perfect for a filling dinner after a long day of exploring.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta of your choice

• 2 cups water

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

Instructions:

1. In your propane jet boil, bring the water to a boil and add the pasta.

2. Cook according to package instructions, then drain.

3. Return the pasta to the pot and stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Heat through and serve. Each serving can pack about 300 calories for energy after a busy day!

   
   

10. Chocolate Banana Boats

End your camping trip on a sweet note with these easy chocolate banana boats.

Ingredients:

• 2 bananas

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

  
  

Instructions:

1. Slice the bananas lengthwise, leaving the peel on.

2. Stuff the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows into the banana.

3. Wrap the bananas in aluminum foil and place them over the fire for about 10 minutes.

4. Unwrap and enjoy the gooey goodness! This dessert can have about 200-300 calories but is a satisfying way to end a day.

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Wrap-Up

Cooking while camping doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a propane jet boil and a cast iron skillet, you can create a variety of delicious meals that will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. From savory breakfast hashes to sweet treats like chocolate banana boats, these easy camping recipes will make your outdoor adventure even more enjoyable. So pack your gear, gather your friends or family, and get ready to create unforgettable memories around the campfire. Happy camping and happy cooking!