What to Cook Over a Campfire
The Ultimate Guide
There’s nothing quite like cooking over a campfire. The crackling flames, the smoky flavor, and the sheer joy of being outside make it a magical experience. Whether you're camping with friends, family, or by yourself, the food you cook can make or break your adventure. Forget the boring sandwiches and granola bars! Let's talk about some amazing, easy-to-make, and fun-to-eat campfire meals. (And it might even give you some ideas on what to bring to a BBQ!)
The Joy of Campfire Cooking
Campfire cooking isn’t just about the food. It’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and enjoying the process. When you cook over an open flame, every meal feels a little more special. Plus, the smoky aroma makes everything taste better. It’s not just eating—it’s an event.
Now, let’s dive into some mouthwatering ideas to get you inspired.
See also: How To Start a Fire in a Fire Pit
Breakfast: Start Your Day with a Sizzle
Waking up to the smell of breakfast over a campfire is the perfect way to start a camping day. One of the easiest and most satisfying breakfasts is campfire pancakes. Just bring along pancake mix, water, and a cast-iron skillet. Pour the batter in, let the edges crisp up, and flip it when bubbles start to form. Top it with syrup, berries, or even chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
If savory is more your style, make a breakfast skillet. Toss diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers into a skillet with a little oil. Add scrambled eggs and maybe some crumbled sausage or bacon. Stir it all together, and you’ve got a hearty meal to keep you energized.
Lunch: Quick and Easy Campfire Favorites
Lunch by the fire should be simple but satisfying. One classic option is foil pack sandwiches. Grab some sandwich bread or tortillas, fill them with your favorite ingredients (like ham, cheese, and mustard), and wrap them tightly in foil. Place the foil packs near the coals for a few minutes, and you’ll have a gooey, toasted sandwich ready to go.
Another great option is campfire quesadillas. Load a tortilla with shredded cheese, cooked chicken, and veggies. Fold it in half, wrap it in foil, and let it sit near the fire. Flip it once, and you’ll have a crispy, melty lunch in minutes.
Dinner: Go Big or Go Home
Dinner is where campfire cooking really shines. One crowd-pleaser is campfire chili. You can make this ahead of time and reheat it in a pot over the fire, or cook it from scratch in a Dutch oven. Add ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices. Let it simmer while you relax by the fire, and enjoy it with cornbread or crackers.
If you want something super fun and interactive, try campfire pizza. Use pre-made pizza dough or flatbreads as your base. Spread on some tomato sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and add your favorite toppings. Cook the pizzas on a grill grate or wrap them in foil and set them on the coals. In about 10 minutes, you’ll have a smoky, cheesy masterpiece.
For a fancier option, go for fire-grilled kabobs. Skewer chunks of meat, veggies, and maybe even some pineapple. Brush them with a little marinade or oil, and grill them over the flames. They’re fun to eat and easy to customize.
Snacks and Sides: Why Not?
No campfire experience is complete without snacks. Campfire popcorn is a must-try. All you need is a little oil, popcorn kernels, and a foil packet. Shake it gently over the fire, and in minutes, you’ll have fresh, smoky popcorn.
Another fun idea is campfire nachos. Layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and toppings like jalapeños or olives in a cast-iron skillet. Cover it with foil, place it near the fire, and let everything melt together. It’s the perfect snack for sharing.
Dessert: The Grand Finale
Dessert around the campfire is pure joy. Of course, the classic s’mores always hit the spot. But if you want to mix it up, try banana boats. Slice a banana lengthwise, stuff it with chocolate chips and marshmallows, and wrap it in foil. Let it cook near the coals until everything melts together into gooey perfection.
For something truly unforgettable, make campfire apple pie packets. Slice an apple and toss it with cinnamon, sugar, and a little butter. Place the slices on a piece of foil, top them with granola or crushed graham crackers, and wrap it all up. Let it cook near the fire until the apples are soft and caramelized.
Tips for Campfire Success
Bring the Right Tools: A cast-iron skillet, tongs, and heat-resistant gloves make cooking much easier.
Use Foil Wisely: Heavy-duty foil is your best friend for quick, no-mess cooking.
Control the Heat: Coals are better than flames for most recipes because they provide steady, even heat.
Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables, mix marinades, and portion ingredients at home to save time at the campsite.
Use a Rocket Stove! A rocket stove will make your life 10 times easier when trying to cook outdoors.
See also: Tips For Using a Fire Pit
Why Campfire Cooking Is Worth It
Campfire cooking isn’t just about the food. It’s about the memories you create. Sharing a meal under the stars, laughing around the fire, and smelling the wood smoke in the air—these moments stay with you long after the camping trip ends. So grab your ingredients, light the fire, and get cooking. The outdoors has never tasted so good.