Are you and your fellow Boy Scouts looking to fuel up for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further! We’ve got 18 easy recipes that are perfect for camping trips. From hearty stews and one-pot meals to sweet treats and snacks, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, cooking in the great outdoors can be intimidating. But with our simple and delicious recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a camping culinary master. And the best part? These meals require minimal equipment and preparation, so you can focus on enjoying your time in nature rather than slaving away over a hot stove.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 18 easy Boy Scouts recipes that are perfect for camping adventures. From classic campfire chili to indulgent cinnamon rolls, there’s something for everyone. So grab your tent and your appetite – let’s get cooking!
Dutch oven campfire chili
Experience the warmth of a campfire with this hearty and flavorful Dutch oven chili recipe. Perfect for a camping trip or a cozy evening around the fire, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over campfire coals.
2. Brown ground beef in the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in chili powder, cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional jalapenos or hot sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Foil packet garlic butter shrimp
Transform shrimp into a savory delight with this simple and flavorful recipe. By cooking the seafood in a foil packet with garlic butter, you’ll be rewarded with tender, succulent shrimp infused with aromatic goodness.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut 12 pieces of aluminum foil into large squares, about 12 inches (30 cm) per side.
3. Divide the shrimp evenly among the foil squares, placing them in the center of each square.
4. Sprinkle minced garlic over the shrimp and dot with softened butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the foil over the shrimp, creating a tight packet, and seal by folding the edges together multiple times.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
One-pot spaghetti with meat sauce
A hearty, comforting dish that’s ready in just one pot! This classic Italian recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
6. Add the spaghetti; stir to combine.
7. Cover the pot and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Campfire breakfast burritos
Start your day off right with these hearty breakfast burritos cooked over the campfire. Perfect for a camping trip or a quick morning meal, these burritos are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup scrambled eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the sausage over the campfire grill or in a cast-iron skillet until browned and crispy.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them over the campfire for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the burritos by adding scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, shredded cheese, and black beans to each tortilla.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup
Classic Comfort Food: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Soup
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the gooey goodness of grilled cheese sandwiches with the comforting warmth of tomato soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar, American, or mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato soup for serving
Instructions:
1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Add one or two slices of cheese on top of the bread.
4. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve with tomato soup and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per sandwich
Walking tacos in a bag
Elevate your tailgating or backyard gatherings with this easy and delicious recipe for Walking Tacos in a Bag. Perfect for feeding a crowd, these individualized tacos are packed with flavor and fun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 Fritos scoops
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
2. Add the taco seasoning and stir to combine.
3. Place a few Fritos scoops into each bag or container (reusable bags work great).
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the seasoned ground beef onto the Fritos.
5. Top with shredded cheese and any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and let guests assemble their own tacos.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet cornbread with honey butter
A classic Southern comfort food, skillet cornbread is a warm and inviting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds an extra layer of sweetness with a drizzle of honey butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
4. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into a 10-inch cast-iron skillet and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
9. Drizzle with honey butter (1 part softened butter to 1 part honey) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot dog and bean campfire casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for camping trips or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup of cooked hot dogs, sliced
– 1 cup of canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– 1 packet of campfire casserole mix (containing pasta, onions, and seasonings)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your camping stove or campfire to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cream of mushroom soup, hot dogs, kidney beans, and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
3. Add the butter, casserole mix, and shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a Dutch oven or campfire-safe pot.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Trail mix granola bars
Get ready to enjoy a sweet and salty treat that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. These Trail Mix Granola Bars are perfect for snacking on the go, whether you’re hiking or just need a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and granola.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in cranberries and chocolate chips.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Campfire banana boats with chocolate
Enjoy the classic campfire treat with a sweet and gooey twist – add melted chocolate to your banana boats!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup of marshmallows
– 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 10-12 graham crackers, broken into pieces
– Firewood for the campfire (or a kitchen torch)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas in half lengthwise and hollow out the centers to create “boats”.
2. Place a marshmallow in each banana boat.
3. Melt the chocolate chips over low heat or using a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Dip each marshmallow-topped banana boat into the melted chocolate, coating the top and sides.
5. Place a few pieces of graham cracker on top of the chocolate-covered banana boats.
6. Cook over the campfire or using a kitchen torch for 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted to desired level.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Easy beef and vegetable stew
Savor a hearty and comforting meal with this simple beef and vegetable stew recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes, red bell pepper, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Pancakes with maple syrup and berries
Sweet Breakfast Delight: Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Berries
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes smothered in pure Canadian maple syrup and fresh berries. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup (warm)
– Fresh berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
8. Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh berries.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Grilled foil packet potatoes with herbs
A deliciously simple side dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, these grilled foil packet potatoes are infused with fresh herbs and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cut four pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil into 12-inch squares.
4. Divide potato mixture among the foil squares, leaving a 1-inch border around each packet.
5. Fold foil over potatoes, creating a tight seal.
6. Place packets on grill, closing lid to trap heat and steam.
7. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Campfire quesadillas with salsa
Assemble these delicious quesadillas around the campfire and enjoy a warm, cheesy treat that’s perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure. With just a few ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire cooking grate to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese, cooked chicken, onion, and jalapeño. Mix well.
3. Place a tortilla on the grill and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
6. Serve with store-bought or homemade salsa.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total, depending on heat and number of quesadillas cooked at once.
Peanut butter and jelly roll-ups
Take your favorite childhood snack to the next level with these easy-to-make roll-ups, perfect for school lunches or afternoon treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape or strawberry jelly
– 1 package of whole wheat tortilla wraps (8-10 count)
– Optional: chopped banana slices or granola for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter along the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
2. Top with 1 tablespoon of jelly, spreading evenly to cover the peanut butter.
3. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients and optional add-ins (if using).
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are best served fresh and at room temperature.
Dutch oven peach cobbler
This classic dessert recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, all wrapped up in a crispy, buttery crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in, this peach cobbler is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced peaches
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out flour and butter mixture into a circle slightly larger than the peach mixture.
4. Place peach mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold edges of dough up over peaches to form a crust.
6. Brush crust with heavy cream and place Dutch oven in oven.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hot cocoa with marshmallows
Cozy up with a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with fluffy marshmallows! This classic wintertime treat is easy to make and perfect for snuggling up by the fireplace or enjoying on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently, until the hot cocoa is smooth and hot.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Campfire cinnamon rolls in oranges
Gather around the campsite and enjoy a sweet treat that’s perfect for any outdoor adventure. These cinnamon rolls are baked to perfection in oranges, giving them a unique flavor and aroma.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
– 2 navel oranges
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the campsite by building a campfire and letting it burn down to coals.
2. Cut the tops off the oranges, about 1 inch from the top.
3. Roll out the cinnamon dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
4. Place the dough in the orange “cups,” leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the dough with sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Bake the rolls for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, turning the oranges every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready for your next camping adventure with these 18 easy and delicious Boy Scouts recipes! From classic campfire chili to sweet banana boats with chocolate, these meals are perfect for a fun-filled day outdoors. Try making one-pot spaghetti with meat sauce, grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup, or hot dog and bean campfire casserole. You’ll also find recipes for trail mix granola bars, skillet cornbread with honey butter, and more! These easy-to-make dishes will keep you fueled and satisfied on your next camping trip.