When it comes to cooking outdoors, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of rustling up a hearty meal over a campfire. And what better way to do so than with the trusty cast iron skillet? Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these 18 delicious cast iron camping recipes are sure to become staples in your outdoor cooking arsenal.
From classic campfire favorites like chili and mac and cheese, to sweet treats like peach cobbler and chocolate lava cake, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. So why wait? Grab your cast iron skillet and let’s get cooking!
Campfire Dutch Oven Chili
Campfire Dutch Oven Chili Recipe: A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over campfire or stove to medium-high heat.
2. Brown ground beef in the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and red kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter
Moist and flavorful cornbread, cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, served with a drizzle of sweet honey butter. This classic comfort food is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey Butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with 2 tablespoons honey.
2. Serve warm cornbread with a pat of honey butter on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cast Iron Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a hearty and flavorful breakfast hash, cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet. This recipe combines crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and fresh bell peppers for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
5. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total
One-Pan Campfire Pizza
A twist on traditional campfire cooking, this recipe brings the flavors of pizza to your outdoor adventure.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire cooking grate or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to fit the pan, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and bell peppers on top of the sauce.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the toppings and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the pan over the campfire grate or skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic peach cobbler, cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. The result is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, beaten egg, and melted butter.
5. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the peach mixture.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Cast Iron Steak with Herbs
A classic summer evening staple gets a flavorful boost from a cast iron skillet and fresh herbs. This recipe yields a tender, juicy steak with a savory crust that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cast iron skillet (12-inch)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Heat the cast iron skillet over high heat for 5 minutes.
5. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches desired doneness.
7. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Mac and Cheese
Enjoy the warmth of the campsite with this indulgent take on macaroni and cheese, cooked to perfection over the campfire.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large Dutch oven or pot.
8. Cook over the campfire, stirring frequently, until the macaroni is coated and the cheese is bubbly (about 10-15 minutes).
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp
In just a few minutes, you can have a deliciously flavorful shrimp dish ready to impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Stew
This classic beef stew recipe is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, this dish is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 325°F.
2. Brown the beef in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Cast Iron Sausage and Veggies
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cast iron sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sausages and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
5. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis to the pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the sausages to the pan and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Campfire Dutch Oven Bread
Get cozy with this rustic bread recipe that’s perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings. This hearty loaf is made by mixing, kneading, and baking dough directly over a campfire in a Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased Dutch oven and cover with lid.
5. Cook over medium-high heat for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to low and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Skillet Blueberry Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes loaded with sweet blueberries and a hint of vanilla. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy morning 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
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries and vanilla extract (if using).
6. Pour the batter into the preheated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Enjoy your stack of Skillet Blueberry Pancakes!
One-Pot Camping Paella
A classic Spanish dish that’s perfect for camping trips – this one-pot paella is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add seafood, paprika, saffron, and rice. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cast Iron Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Cast Iron Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Elevate Your Lunch Game with a Classic Twist!
Cast iron skillets aren’t just for cooking steak or eggs anymore! With this simple recipe, you can create a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich that’s sure to become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese slices on top of the bread, followed by another bread slice (buttered side up).
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 or until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Remove from heat, let cool for a minute, and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes per sandwich
Dutch Oven Apple Crisp
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and the warmth of the Dutch oven. It’s an easy and delicious dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to the preheated Dutch oven and top with rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter.
4. Cover the Dutch oven and cook for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Campfire Skillet Nachos
Campfire Skillet Nachos Recipe
Get ready to elevate your camping game with this easy-to-make and deliciously satisfying Campfire Skillet Nachos recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cast-iron skillet or camping pot
– 1 (16 oz) bag of tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken breast or beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
3. Arrange half of the tortilla chips in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese and half of the black beans, cooked chicken or beef on top of the chips.
5. Repeat layers: chips, cheese, and black beans/chicken/beef.
6. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cast Iron Herb-Roasted Chicken
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of a cast iron skillet with the brightness of fresh herbs to create a mouthwatering roasted chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a preheated cast iron skillet and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Chocolate Lava Cake
Transform your dinner party with this indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. This Dutch oven chocolate lava cake is a game-changer, featuring gooey centers and crispy edges.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the Dutch oven
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Butter the inside of the Dutch oven and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl; let cool slightly.
5. Pour the melted chocolate into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared Dutch oven and smooth the top.
7. Cover with a lid and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your camping game with these 18 mouthwatering cast iron recipes for outdoor cooking. From hearty breakfast dishes like Cast Iron Breakfast Hash and Skillet Blueberry Pancakes, to satisfying campfire classics like Campfire Mac and Cheese and Dutch Oven Chili, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss unique twists on campfire favorites like One-Pan Campfire Pizza and Grilled Cast Iron Steak with Herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new camping staples.