As an outdoor enthusiast, one of the best parts of camping is getting back to nature and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But while roughing it in the great outdoors can be an exhilarating experience, it’s important to remember that camping also requires a bit of planning and preparation, especially when it comes to meals.
After a long day of hiking, fishing, or exploring, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking a complicated meal. That’s why easy camping dinners are an essential part of any successful camping trip. Not only do they save time and energy, but they also allow you to focus on what really matters: enjoying the great outdoors with your friends and family.
As you may have guessed, choosing the right camping dinner can be a challenge. You want something that is easy to prepare, but also satisfying and delicious. That’s why it’s important to consider a few key factors when choosing your meals, such as the size of your camping party, the equipment you have available, and any dietary restrictions or preferences.
With that in mind, below, we’ll go over 14 easy first-night camping dinner meals that everyone should try. From one-pot pasta dishes to grilled meats and vegetables, these meals are sure to satisfy your hunger and make your camping trip a success.
So sit back, relax, and let us take the stress out of camping meal planning.
1. One-pot pasta with sausage and vegetables
When it comes to easy camping dinners, one-pot meals are a game-changer. Not only do they require minimal prep and clean-up, but they also allow you to pack all of your ingredients into one pot, making them perfect for camping. And when it comes to one-pot meals, this pasta with sausage and vegetables recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
- 2 cups of spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with the juices) to the pot, along with the chicken broth and pasta. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and spinach until the spinach has wilted.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Serve the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese.
This one-pot pasta with sausage and vegetables is a delicious and easy camping dinner that everyone will love. Not only does it have plenty of protein from the sausage, but it also includes plenty of veggies for a healthy meal.
And because it’s made in just one pot, it’s easy to clean up, leaving you more time to enjoy the great outdoors.
2. Foil packet garlic shrimp and veggies
Camping meals don’t have to be boring or bland. In fact, with a little creativity, you can whip up some of the most flavorful and delicious meals right in the great outdoors. And one such meal is this foil packet garlic shrimp and veggies recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into strips
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or prepare your campfire for cooking.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp, zucchini, red bell pepper, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long.
- Divide the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly among the four foil pieces.
- Fold up the edges of each foil packet and seal tightly.
- Place the foil packets on the grill or campfire, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through and the veggies are tender.
- Remove the foil packets from the heat and carefully open them up.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This foil-packet garlic shrimp and veggies recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The garlic-infused shrimp pairs perfectly with the sweet bell peppers and zucchini, creating a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Plus, cooking it in foil packets makes clean-up a breeze, making it a perfect choice for a camping trip. So next time you’re in the great outdoors, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal under the stars.
3. Grilled chicken fajitas
Camping is all about spending time in the great outdoors, exploring nature, and enjoying delicious meals under the stars. And what better way to do that than with some perfectly spiced and grilled chicken fajitas? This easy and flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone on your camping trip.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into strips
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Flour tortillas, for serving
- Toppings of your choice (sour cream, shredded cheese, guacamole, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or prepare your campfire for cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, bell pepper, onion, jalapeno pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Divide the mixture into four large pieces of aluminum foil.
- Fold up the edges of each foil packet and seal tightly.
- Place the foil packets on the grill or campfire and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
- Remove the foil packets from the heat and carefully open them up.
- Serve the grilled chicken fajitas with warm flour tortillas and your favorite toppings.
This grilled chicken fajitas recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. The perfect combination of spices, chicken, and vegetables makes it a satisfying and healthy meal for your next camping trip. Plus, cooking it in foil packets means you can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about cleaning up a ton of dishes.
4. Campfire quesadillas
One of the best parts of camping is being able to enjoy hearty and comforting meals in the great outdoors. And what could be more comforting than gooey, cheesy quesadillas cooked over a campfire? This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner on your next camping trip.
Ingredients:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup of cooked and shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your campfire or grill to medium-high heat.
- Lay out 4 tortillas on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over the tortillas.
- Add the cooked and shredded chicken (if using), bell pepper, and onion over the cheese.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Top with the remaining 4 tortillas.
- Spray the top tortillas with cooking spray.
- Wrap each quesadilla in a large piece of aluminum foil and seal tightly.
- Place the foil packets on the campfire or grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
- Remove the foil packets from the heat and carefully open them up.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot.
These campfire quesadillas are the ultimate comfort food for your next camping trip. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a hungry group of outdoor enthusiasts. You can even prep the ingredients at home before your trip and assemble the quesadillas at the campsite.
5. Italian-style skillet dinner
Looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that you can enjoy while camping? Look no further than this Italian-style skillet dinner. Packed with protein and veggies, this one-pan meal is perfect for satisfying your hunger after a long day of outdoor activities.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the skillet, cover, and let cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This Italian-style skillet dinner is a great option for a satisfying and filling meal while camping. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a one-pan meal, which means less clean-up and more time to enjoy the great outdoors.
Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a well-rounded meal that will keep you fueled for your outdoor adventures.
6. One-pot chili mac and cheese
If you’re a fan of mac and cheese and chili, then you’re going to love this one-pot chili mac and cheese recipe. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for camping. Plus, since it’s all made in one pot, you won’t have to worry about doing a ton of dishes after dinner.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is tender.
- Drain the excess fat, then stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, water, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes.
- Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot, and stir to combine. Simmer, covered, for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and gooey.
- Serve the chili mac and cheese hot, with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side.
Tips:
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you prefer.
- If you like your chili mac and cheese spicier, you can add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Leftovers can be reheated on the campfire or stovetop, or frozen for later use.
With this recipe, you can enjoy a warm and comforting meal of chili and mac and cheese without any hassle. So, pack your camping gear and head to the great outdoors, knowing you can whip up this easy and delicious meal for your first night at the campsite.
7. Grilled pork chops with roasted vegetables
When it comes to easy camping meals, grilled pork chops with roasted vegetables are a classic choice. This dish is easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and provides a filling and nutritious meal after a long day of hiking or exploring the great outdoors.
Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be modified to suit a variety of dietary needs and tastes.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
- 2 bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 red onion, sliced into wedges
- 2-3 zucchinis, sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: garlic, herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), lemon
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the vegetables by slicing them into similar-sized pieces.
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- While the pork chops are grilling, place the vegetables in a grill basket or on a piece of foil and grill for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred.
- Once the pork chops and vegetables are cooked, remove them from the grill and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled pork chops with the roasted vegetables and any additional seasonings, such as garlic, herbs, or lemon.
Tips and Variations:
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the pork chops and vegetables on a stovetop or in an oven.
- For a different flavor, you can marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade before grilling.
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables with your favorites, such as mushrooms, eggplant, or asparagus.
- If you’re camping with a group, consider using a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to cook everything together.
- Don’t forget to bring a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork chops are cooked to a safe temperature.
That’s it! Grilled pork chops with roasted vegetables are a satisfying and delicious camping meal that you can easily customize to your preferences. Give this recipe a try on your next outdoor adventure and enjoy!
8. Campfire nachos
If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that can feed a crowd, look no further than campfire nachos. This delicious and satisfying dish can be customized to suit your tastes and cooked over an open flame for a smoky, savory flavor.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked and served in one foil packet. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering campfire nachos.
Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- Ground beef or turkey (pre-cooked)
- Diced tomatoes
- Diced red onion
- Jalapeno peppers (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by laying out a large piece of aluminum foil on a flat surface. You’ll be using this to create a foil packet for your nachos.
- Spread a layer of tortilla chips on the foil, making sure to cover the entire surface. You can use as many or as few chips as you like, depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the chips. Again, use as much or as little as you like.
- Add your pre-cooked ground beef or turkey on top of the cheese.
- Next, sprinkle diced tomatoes and red onion on top of the meat.
- If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeno peppers on top of the veggies.
- Finally, add another layer of tortilla chips and top with more shredded cheese.
- Close up the foil packet by bringing up the sides and sealing them together tightly.
- Place the foil packet on a campfire grill or directly onto hot coals.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the foil packet from the fire and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Once cooled, open the foil packet and add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Grab a fork and dig in!
Campfire nachos are a fun and easy meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re camping with friends or family, this dish is sure to be a hit.
You can mix and match ingredients to suit your tastes, and it’s a great way to use up any leftovers you might have. So next time you’re planning a camping trip, make sure to add campfire nachos to your menu!
9. Easy beef stir-fry
Stir-fry is a quick and easy camping meal that packs a punch of flavors. It’s a versatile dish that allows you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. This makes it perfect for camping trips where you may not have access to a full pantry or fridge.
In this recipe, we’ll be using beef as our main protein, but feel free to substitute with chicken, shrimp, or tofu to suit your preferences. So, get ready to chop, stir, and savor with this easy beef stir-fry recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Soy sauce
- Rice (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat up a large skillet or wok over the campfire or portable stove.
- Once heated, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the pan.
- Add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and broccoli to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
- Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables and stir everything together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce to taste.
- Serve the stir-fry hot over rice if desired.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the vegetables, they should be tender but still have a bit of a crunch.
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the most tender and juicy results.
- If you’re looking to save time, you can slice the vegetables and beef ahead of time and store them in separate containers until you’re ready to cook.
- Add some spice to your stir-fry with red pepper flakes, Sriracha sauce, or chili oil.
This easy beef stir-fry recipe is perfect for camping trips because it’s quick, easy, and can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s a healthy and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone around the campfire.
So, fire up your portable stove or campfire, grab your skillet or wok, and get ready to stir-fry your way to a delicious meal in the great outdoors!
10. Grilled vegetable skewers
Grilled vegetable skewers are a fantastic and healthy option for any outdoor enthusiast. These skewers can be customized to your taste preferences and are packed with essential nutrients, fiber, and vitamins.
To make these skewers, start by cutting your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Some excellent options include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and onions. You can also add some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, thread the vegetables onto skewers, making sure to leave some space in between each piece. You can also alternate the vegetables to create a beautiful and colorful pattern.
Once the grill is ready, lightly brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
To serve, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with some fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil. You can also drizzle some balsamic glaze or vinaigrette for extra flavor.