Finding the right recipes for campfire cooking that suit the season can be a real challenge. Did you know that meals prepared outdoors can vary greatly with the changing weather and available ingredients? Our curated seasonal recipe collection will transform your campfire dining into a delightful experience year-round.
Discover your new outdoor favorites here!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Discover campfire recipes that match the seasons, like Apple Maple Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches for spring mornings and Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls for crisp autumn days.
- Foil packet meals offer easy cleanup and can be tailored to any time of year, with options like Shrimp Boil Foil Packets in summer or Grilled Asparagus in foil as a light side dish.
- Use a Dutch oven over the campfire to make comfort foods like lasagna or Chicken Marbella, bringing gourmet flavors to outdoor cooking experiences.
- Grilling isn’t just for summertime; enjoy dishes such as Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos in fall or Grilled Shrimp on Skewers during warm evenings under the stars.
- Skewers and kabobs work well all year with ingredients that suit the season—try Chicken Pineapple Kabobs during warmer months or savor hearty Chorizo Kabobs when it’s cooler.
Seasonal Campfire Breakfast Recipes
Wake up with the great outdoors and greet your day with a hearty meal cooked right over the campfire. From savory to sweet, our seasonal breakfast recipes infuse each morning with the fresh flavors of every season—whether you’re sizzling sausage under spring’s first light or unrolling cinnamon-infused warmth on a crisp autumn dawn.
Apple Maple Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches
Cooking over a campfire brings excitement to any outdoor adventure. The Apple Maple Sausage Breakfast Sandwich is a perfect start to your day in the wild.
- Begin with an English muffin, lightly toasted for crunch and warmth.
- Cook a fresh egg, making sure it’s fried to your liking—runny or well done.
- Melt your favorite cheddar cheese on top of the egg for gooey goodness.
- Make the homemade apple maple sausage patty; mix ground sausage with real maple syrup and diced apples.
- Form the mixture into patties and fry them until golden and cooked.
- Layer the patty onto the muffin, followed by the cheesy egg.
- Top with another muffin half, creating a sandwich full of flavor.
Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
Imagine starting your morning with something sweet after savoring the savory apple maple sausage breakfast sandwiches. Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for a cozy campfire treat.
- Get ready before you leave home by mixing the dough and shaping the cinnamon rolls.
- Pack them snugly in a pan and cover it to keep everything fresh for your trip.
- Once at your campsite, let the rolls rise near the warmth of the fire – it’s a great spot!
- Prep your Dutch oven by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it lightly.
- Arrange your rolls inside, giving them space to expand as they bake.
- Place the Dutch oven over hot coals, not flames, for even heating.
- You can put coals on top of the lid, too; this helps cook the rolls from every side.
- Bake until they puff up and turn golden brown, which should take about 30 minutes.
- Don’t have an oven thermometer? Just check if they smell delicious and use a stick to poke them gently – if it comes out clean, they’re done!
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a simple glaze while still warm.
- Drizzle it over the rolls so each bite has that creamy sweetness.
Mountain Breakfast Skillet
Start your day surrounded by nature with a Mountain Breakfast Skillet. It’s famed for being one of the top five campfire recipes and guarantees a hearty beginning to any outdoor adventure.
- Grab a cast iron skillet. This will be your best friend when cooking over an open flame.
- Heat the skillet over your campfire or on a grill.
- Slice some potatoes thin and spread them out in the skillet. They’ll form a tasty, crispy base.
- Crack eggs directly over the potatoes. Watch them sizzle and cook to perfection.
- Toss in chopped onions, green peppers, and mushrooms for that veggie boost.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top. It melts into all the nooks and crannies.
- Chop up pieces of pre-cooked bacon or sausage. Add them for a savory kick.
- Stir everything gently with a spatula as it cooks, combining flavors.
- Season with salt, pepper, and other spices of your liking – make it your own!
- Let everything cook until the edges are golden brown and the aroma is irresistible.
Seasonal Foil Packet Meals & Sides
Embrace the simplicity and flavor of foil packet cooking with a twist—each recipe is tailored to complement the season’s bounty. From oceanside shrimp boils under the summer stars to cozy kielbasa surrounded by autumn leaves, these meals-in-foil bring out the best in outdoor dining, no matter the time of year.
Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
Shrimp Boil Foil Packets bring the taste of the sea to your campfire. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
- Start by laying out large pieces of foil.
- In the center, place an assortment of baby potatoes and corn on the cob slices.
- Add uncooked shrimp on top of the veggies. Make sure they are peeled for easier eating.
- Slice up some smoked sausage and scatter it over the shrimp.
- Sprinkle a mix of seasonings, including Old Bay, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Drizzle everything with melted butter or olive oil for moisture and richness.
- Fold the edges of the foil together tightly to create a sealed packet.
- Place packets on a grill over the campfire. You can also nestle them directly in hot coals.
- Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until shrimp are pink and veggies are tender.
- Carefully open one packet to check if everything’s done. Be careful of steam!
- Serve right from the foil for easy cleanup or transfer to plates.
Kielbasa & Potato Foil Packets
Kielbasa & Potato Foil Packets are a crowd favorite for campfire cooking. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
- Start by slicing kielbasa sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop potatoes into small cubes for quicker cooking.
- Tear off large foil squares, enough to wrap the ingredients without crowding them.
- Place kielbasa and potatoes in the center of each foil piece.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers for extra taste and color.
- Season everything with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Drizzle olive oil over the mix to keep it moist while cooking.
- Fold the foil edges together tightly to seal all the goodness inside.
- Put your packets over a campfire or on a grill grate.
- Let them cook for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Carefully open one packet to check if the potatoes are tender.
- Serve hot right from the foil for an easy clean-up option!
Grilled Asparagus in Foil
After enjoying the hearty flavors of kielbasa and potato foil packets, let’s switch gears to a light and tasty veggie option. Grilled asparagus in foil is the perfect side dish for any campfire meal.
- Grab fresh asparagus spears and give them a quick rinse.
- Spread out a piece of aluminum foil on a flat surface.
- Lay the asparagus on the foil and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder over the spears for added flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for an extra zing.
- Wrap up the asparagus tightly in the foil to lock in all those tasty juices.
- Place your foil packet over hot coals or on a grill grate above the flames.
- Let the asparagus cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. Flip once if needed.
- Carefully open the packet to let steam escape — watch out for hot steam!
- Serve right from the foil for easy cleanup or transfer to a plate if preferred.
Seasonal Dutch Oven Campfire Recipes
Discover the joys of Dutch oven cooking at your campsite—with our curated seasonal recipes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals that celebrate the flavors of each season.
Keep reading to ignite your culinary creativity beneath the stars!
Dutch Oven Lasagna
Cooking Dutch Oven Lasagna at the campsite brings a taste of home to the great outdoors. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends around the fire.
- Start with your favorite lasagna recipe. Gather ground beef, Italian sausage, lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Grab your cast iron Dutch oven. Make sure it’s seasoned well so your lasagna doesn’t stick.
- Cook the meats first. Do this directly in the Dutch oven over the campfire until they’re brown.
- Boil water on a camping stove or another pot over the fire to cook your lasagna noodles just until they’re flexible.
- Mix ricotta with eggs and herbs for a creamy layer that adds flavor and texture.
- Start layering in the Dutch oven—first sauce, then noodles, followed by meats, cheeses, and more sauce.
- Repeat those layers until you’ve filled up the Dutch oven, but save some cheese for topping.
- Cover with a lid and place hot coals on top of it if you have them; this mimics an oven environment.
- Let it cook for about 45 minutes to an hour — be patient as the smells tempt your taste buds!
- Check if it’s done by sticking in a knife – when it comes out clean, you know it’s ready!
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes so they melt and get bubbly.
One Pot Chili Mac
One Pot Chili Mac is a campfire favorite that’s easy to make and delicious. It fits all seasons and offers a warm, hearty meal for any outdoor adventure.
- Start by gathering your ingredients: ground beef, macaroni pasta, canned tomatoes, beans, chili seasoning, cheese, and water.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over the campfire until it’s hot.
- Brown the ground beef in the skillet, stirring to keep it from sticking.
- Pour water into the skillet with the beef – just enough to cook the pasta.
- Add the macaroni to the skillet once the water starts boiling.
- Let it simmer until the pasta softens up. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Mix in canned tomatoes and beans of your choice for a rich flavor base.
- Sprinkle chili seasoning into the mixture for that perfect kick of spice.
- Keep everything cooking together over medium heat until it thickens – you want a good mix!
- Top off with lots of shredded cheese. Go for cheddar or a blend that melts well.
- Cover your skillet with a lid or foil if you have one. Let it melt into cheesy goodness.
- Serve hot right out of the skillet – watch out; it will be super tasty and comforting!
Dutch Oven Chicken Marbella
Dutch Oven Chicken Marbella brings a touch of gourmet to campfire cooking. It’s easy to make and delivers complex, sweet and savory flavors.
- Gather pitted olives, capers, oregano, brown sugar, and white wine.
- Find some prunes and garlic for sweetness and a punch of flavor.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for the best taste; they stay juicy over the fire.
- Combine these ingredients in a large zipper bag before you leave for your trip.
- Let the chicken marinate overnight or while you set up camp.
- Place your Dutch oven over the campfire to get it hot.
- Sear chicken pieces on each side to lock in moisture and add richness.
- Pour the rest of your marinade over the seared chicken in the Dutch oven.
- Cover with a lid and let it cook slowly until the meat is tender.
- Serve this warm meal with some crusty bread or a simple salad.
Seasonal Grilled Campfire Meals and Sides
Gather around the crackling fire and indulge in the vibrant flavors of each season with our carefully curated grilled campfire meals and sides. These dishes are designed to bring out the best of seasonal produce, ensuring that every bite is as fresh as it is delicious—imagine savoring a cilantro lime chicken taco while inhaling the crisp autumn air or enjoying grilled shrimp on skewers under a balmy summer night sky.
Cilantro and Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos
Cilantro and Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos bring a burst of flavor to campfire cooking. Their marinade is smoky and spicy and can be prepared beforehand to make outdoor grilling faster.
- Begin by marinating the chicken breast in a mix of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices.
- Let the chicken soak in all those flavors for at least an hour – overnight works best for an intense taste.
- Fire up your grill and cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s nicely charred and cooked through.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips ready to fill up your tacos.
- Warm the tortillas on the grill for that perfect slight crispness.
- Add your sliced chicken to the tortillas along with toppings like avocado, lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
- Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese if you want extra richness.
- For a final touch, squeeze more lime over each taco and serve immediately.
Grilled Shrimp on Skewers
Grilled shrimp on skewers is perfect for any campfire gathering. It’s a tasty meal you can enjoy in every season.
- Start by choosing fresh or thawed large shrimp. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined for the best taste.
- Put the shrimp in a bowl. Add olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to give them a zesty flavor.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers carefully. If you’re using wooden ones, soak them in water first to stop them from burning.
- Heat your grill to medium-high heat. A charcoal grill gives the shrimp a smoky touch.
- Place the skewered shrimp on the hot grill. Cook each side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
- Keep an eye on them! Shrimp cook quickly—usually, two or three minutes per side is enough.
- Serve hot off the grill. Squeeze fresh lemon over them or dip in honey mustard sauce to add extra zest.
- Pair with a side of grilled asparagus or a savory grainy mustard potato salad for a full meal.
Grilled Caprese Sandwich
Cooking outdoors brings joy to every camping trip. The Grilled Caprese Sandwich adds a flavorful twist to campfire meals.
- Start by gathering fresh ingredients: ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic glaze, and crusty bread.
- Heat the grill to a medium temperature for even cooking.
- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese thickly; these will be the heart of your sandwich.
- Pick large basil leaves – they add a herby freshness.
- Brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil – this prevents sticking on the grill.
- Place the oiled bread on the grill, oil-side down; watch for it to turn golden brown.
- Flip the bread slices over once toasted; quickly assemble your sandwich on the grilled side.
- Layer tomato slices on first for a juicy base.
- Add mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes, letting the heat start melting them.
- Sprinkle basil leaves over the cheese for that classic Caprese flavor burst.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze generously across layers – sweet and tangy accents make all the difference!
- Close your sandwich with another piece of toasted bread, grilled side inwards – this keeps all those delicious flavors trapped inside.
Seasonal Skewers & Kabobs
Skewers and kabobs aren’t just for summer barbecues; they’re a year-round delight that can bring the best of each season’s bounty to your campfire grill. Whether you’re threading juicy chicken with tangy pineapple or pairing robust chorizo with vibrant chimichurri, these skewered sensations offer an artful—and supremely tasty—way to savor the outdoors, no matter the weather.
Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
Chicken Pineapple Kabobs brings a sweet and savory twist to your campfire cooking. They are easy to make and pack a punch of flavor with each bite.
- Start by cutting chicken breasts into chunks. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will cook evenly on the grill.
- Peel and chop fresh pineapple into chunks similar in size to your chicken. This balance helps everything cook at the same rate.
- Slide chicken and pineapple pieces onto skewers, alternating between them. Add colorful bell peppers for extra taste and a pop of color.
- Season your kabobs with a mix of brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. These spices create a caramelized outside as they grill.
- Drizzle some olive oil over the skewers before placing them on the campfire grill. The oil prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness.
- Cook the kabobs over medium heat. Rotate them often for an even char without burning.
- Take the kabobs off the fire once the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. Let them rest briefly so nobody burns their mouth.
- Serve your Chicken Pineapple Kabobs with steamed rice or a side salad. These sides make for a complete meal under the stars.
Grilled Chorizo Kabobs with Chimichurri
Grilled Chorizo Kabobs with Chimichurri are perfect for any season. Megan & Michael from Fresh Off The Grid share this tasty recipe for outdoor cooking.
- Start by getting your grill hot and ready. You want a medium-high heat to cook the kabobs evenly.
- Take chorizo sausages and slice them into half-inch pieces. These will give your kabobs a spicy kick that’s just right.
- Cut up bell peppers and red onions into chunks; they’ll add color and flavor to your skewers.
- Skewer the chorizo, peppers, and onions alternately on metal sticks or pre-soaked wooden skewers.
- Brush the kabobs with oil before placing them on the grill. This helps prevent sticking and adds an extra layer of crispiness.
- Grill each side for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the chorizo is sizzling and veggies have nice grill marks.
- As the kabobs cook, prepare the chimichurri sauce. Combine fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a blender.
- Blend until you get a smooth sauce with bold flavors that will complement the smoky chorizo perfectly.
- Once off the grill, let the kabobs rest for a minute or two. This allows juices to redistribute and flavors to meld together better.
- Serve hot with generous drizzles of chimichurri over each skewer. The vibrant sauce adds freshness on top of hearty campfire fare.
Campfire Grilled Ratatouille Skewers
Campfire Grilled Ratatouille Skewers are a tasty way to enjoy veggies outdoors. They fit perfectly into the seasonal skewers and kabobs section, offering a vegetarian option.
- Start by slicing bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onions into chunks.
- Put the vegetables on skewers, mixing colors for a vibrant look.
- Brush each skewer with olive oil to keep them from sticking on the grill.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or basil over the veggies.
- Heat your campfire until you have a bed of hot coals.
- Place the skewers over the grill and let them cook for about 15 minutes.
- Turn them occasionally so every side gets those nice grill marks.
- The skewers are done when they’re tender but still hold their shape.
- Take them off the heat and serve right away with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Seasonal Camping Desserts
Nothing caps off a day of outdoor adventures like indulging in seasonal camping desserts—think treats kissed by fire and under-the-stars sweetness; your campfire ring is the secret to these delectable after-dinner delights that await.
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler brings summer’s sweet flavors to your campfire. It is an easy dessert to make and enjoy under the stars.
- Start by gathering ripe peaches. You’ll want them juicy for the best taste.
- Slice the peaches and mix them with sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. This creates the filling.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and a bit of sugar for the topping.
- Cut in cold butter until you get pea-sized crumbles. This adds richness to the cobbler.
- Slowly pour in milk while stirring to form a thick batter. Keep it lumpy for a tender biscuit-like texture.
- Place the peach mixture into a Dutch oven prepped with cooking spray or butter. It prevents sticking.
- Dollop the batter over peaches in small clumps. They spread into a cohesive layer as they bake.
- Cover with the lid and place coals on top for even cooking. The heat from above is crucial.
- Let it cook for around 45 minutes or until golden brown. Check by lifting the lid carefully.
- Serve warm right from the Dutch oven. Scoop out portions for everyone to enjoy.
- Add ice cream or whipped cream on top if desired. It melts into a creamy dream!
Grilled Peaches with Honey Yogurt
Grilled Peaches with Honey Yogurt capture the sweet taste of summer. This dessert turns ripe peaches into a campfire treat.
- Choose fresh, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
- Cut the fruit in half and remove the pits gently.
- Place peaches on the grill, flesh side down. Cook until they’re warm and have nice grill marks.
- Mix honey with Greek yogurt while the peaches cook. The sweetness of honey pairs well with the tangy yogurt.
- Flip peaches after a few minutes to heat the skin side, but be careful not to burn them.
- Remove peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly.
- Top each peach half with a dollop of honey yogurt. It melts beautifully into the warm fruit.
- Serve right away while still warm for a comforting dessert by the fire.
Banana Boats
After savoring the sweet tang of grilled peaches with honey yogurt, it’s time to shift our attention to another fruit-based delight that combines warmth, sweetness, and the joy of customization. Banana Boats are not just a treat; they’re an adventure in each bite.
- Start with a ripe banana and carefully slice it lengthwise down the middle. Be sure not to cut through the bottom skin!
- Gently pry open the banana just enough to stuff it with marshmallows and chocolate chips, creating a pocket of gooey goodness.
- Wrap the stuffed banana in aluminum foil, ensuring it’s well sealed for even cooking over the campfire or grill.
- Place your foil-wrapped banana onto hot coals or a grill grate and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes. The heat should be medium-high for best results.
- Carefully remove the banana boat from the fire once you see that its contents have melted into a deliciously warm topping.
- Unwrap your treat cautiously—it will be hot. Let it cool for just a moment so you don’t burn your tongue.
- Top off your Banana Boat with extras like nuts, granola, caramel, or whipped cream. It’s all up to what you love most!
- Enjoy this classic camping dessert that brings together campers of all ages. It’s perfect after any meal or as a night-time snack under the stars.
What Are Some Seasonal Campfire Recipes That Are Easy for Beginners to Make?
Looking for simple and delicious campfire recipes for beginners? Try making campfire nachos by layering tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and toppings in a cast-iron skillet. Or make easy foil packet meals with seasoned meat, veggies, and potatoes. These recipes are perfect for cooking over an open flame in the great outdoors.
Conclusion
Campfire cooking brings joy year-round, not just during summer. Each season has a new set of flavors to explore—think warm cinnamon rolls in fall or zesty lime chicken tacos in the heat of summer.
Whether roasting kabobs or baking peach cobbler, these recipes turn any campfire into a feast. Gather your friends and family around the fire; it’s time to cook up some memories! Just imagine the stories you’ll tell with a plate full of these delicious eats in hand.
Leave a Reply