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19 Simple Camping Recipes That’ll Make You the Hero of the Campsite Without Breaking a Sweat

You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to impress at the campsite. These 19 simple camping recipes will make you the hero without any stress or complicated steps. No need for fancy tools or tons of ingredients—just easy meals that taste great and come together fast. Whether you’re cooking over an open flame or using a camp stove, these recipes are designed to keep it simple.

Three pieces of Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers on a white plate.
Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grandma’s Three Bean Salad

A bowl of three-bean salad with kidney beans, chickpeas, onions, and herbs sits on a table next to a blue striped napkin and fresh parsley.
Grandma’s Three Bean Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This is a go-to dish for sharing around the campsite because it’s light and easy to pack along. Grandma’s Three Bean Salad stands out with its combination of textures and a tangy flavor that meshes well with other campfire meals. Its simplicity makes it a favorite for casual days outdoors. Whether as a side or a light main dish, it’s always welcomed at group meals.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Three Bean Salad

Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

A black bowl filled with Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon with a spoon on the side.
Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Smoky, tasty, and hearty, this camp-friendly combo is perfect for people who love bold flavors. Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon offers a filling bite that warms you up after a busy day, thanks to the rich mix of ingredients. The balance of textures works well next to classic staples like grilled meats. Pair it with your favorite drink at dinner to round things out easily.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

The Backyard Table

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Baked Bean Casserole

A wooden spoon holds a serving of Baked Bean Casserole above a pot filled with more bean casserole.
Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A fan favorite for gatherings, this dish is as easy to transport as it is to enjoy. Baked Bean Casserole hits the spot with its comforting mix of beans and other familiar ingredients. It’s the kind of dish you keep coming back to during long outdoor evenings with friends. Once you try it, expect to be asked to bring it again for future outings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Creamy Radish Salad

A bowl of Creamy Radish Salad garnished with dill, with a spoon lifting a portion above the bowl.
Creamy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Light, cool, and perfect for warmer afternoons, this offers a refreshing mix of flavors. Creamy Radish Salad makes a good balance against heavier dishes, adding variety to the meal spread. Its crispness keeps it fun and lively, holding its own at any picnic table. Whether as a side or a quick snack, it’s an easy boost for your camping meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Radish Salad

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A blue bowl filled with street corn chicken rice bowl, featuring grilled chicken, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and black beans.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Filling and full of delicious textures, this hearty meal works well as a one-bowl camping option. Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl combines great flavors with the ease of prepping something quick. It’s ideal for getting everyone re-energized after a long hike. This recipe quickly turns from one dish served into a crowd favorite to be repeated.
Get the Recipe: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Texas BLT

Two Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Simple, satisfying, and popular, it brings everything you love about this sandwich straight into campfire settings. Texas BLT combines smoky, crispy, and fresh ingredients for a reliable bite every time. Perfect for lunch breaks when keeping things casual, it’s one of those recipes you’ll include in your regular rotation. Easy to eat and a joy to share.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette

A bowl of barley salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley sits on a plate, with a spoonful of salad being held above the bowl.
Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Bright and wholesome, this salad shines as a lighter option for your camping meals. Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette features a pleasant mix with just enough texture to make it a main or side dish. Great for packing in a cooler and sharing during group lunches, it’s not overwhelming but still stands out. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Packed with bold and tasty flavor, this option flips the cheesesteak into camp-friendly territory. Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak brings all the comfort you need after an adventurous day with friends. It’s filling without being complicated, making it a practical choice for grilling or skillet meals outdoors. Whoever grabs one won’t want to pass up seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze & Feta

A spoon drizzles balsamic glaze over a salad with watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, and arugula in a white bowl on a light surface.
Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze & Feta. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Light, sweet, and salty all at once, this recipe works well to refresh your appetite after a long outing. Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze & Feta mixes bold ingredients in an easy format that’ll have everyone reaching for more. Its balance makes a perfect complement to grilled or smoky dishes. Plus, the add-on glaze gives everything a unique twist.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze & Feta

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A classic option with a flavorful kick, this recipe keeps things simple but leaves a big impression. Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter are both practical and satisfying for nights around the fire. Every bite offers a rich combination of textures and flavors that’s hard to match. For occasions where people are craving hearty dishes, this steak doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fun, quick, and packed with nostalgic vibes, these sandwiches keep things exciting at meal time. Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich appeals with its simplicity but is just different enough to seem fresh and interesting. Great for lunch and camp nights when everyone wants a light but flavorful bite. Don’t be surprised if people ask for more once served.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

A rectangular white plate with four Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers garnished with chopped herbs.
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Mixing tasty and slightly sweet tones, these skewers are easy to share at your next outdoor gathering. Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers keep things interesting with bold flavors that are perfect for smoky grills. Perfect for handheld options, this recipe lets people mingle while enjoying their food. Add it to your camping menu for something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice served in a white bowl.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A quick and filling addition to camp menus, it’s an ideal one-pan recipe. Ground Beef Fried Rice works perfectly for adding variety without too much effort during group dinners. With a mix of hearty ingredients, it’s something everyone can enjoy while out exploring. Comfortable, easy, and practical, this dish fits great into any shared camping setup.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Texas-Style Carne Asada

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Big on flavor and presentation, this dish brings a festive vibe to outdoor settings. Texas-Style Carne Asada serves as a crowd-pleaser, with its ease of preparation enhancing its appeal. It works great for outdoor dinners where everyone enjoys sharing plates and digging in. A great way to level up your grill game while keeping things straightforward for hungry folks.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Honey Butter

A plate with halves of Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Honey Butter.
Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Honey Butter. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A spin on a familiar sandwich, this option offers a little added excitement. Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Honey Butter feel indulgent but are straightforward enough for group outings. It’s rich without being overwhelming, with the honey butter adding something unexpected. A solid choice for anyone seeking comfort food while enjoying a night outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Hot Honey Butter

Easy Skillet Lasagna

Two cast-iron skillets filled with skillet lasagna, topped with melted cheese.
Easy Skillet Lasagna. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Served straight from the skillet, this is perfect for simple yet comforting meals near the campsite. Easy Skillet Lasagna reinvents a classic with easier steps, making it practical in outdoor settings. Everyone who tries it will appreciate the layers and textures that come together effortlessly. If shared, it’s likely to become a group favorite after one serving.
Get the Recipe: Easy Skillet Lasagna

Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Close-up shot of Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers on a Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill topped with cheesy onion on a plate.
Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A dynamic option for any dinner spread, these burgers are a great way to mix things up outdoors. Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers bring packed flavors without much hassle, which makes them perfect for camping setups. Every bite feels like a full-on meal, thanks to the combination of ingredients. That’s why they’re excellent choices for first-time group meals or reunions.
Get the Recipe: Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Queso Blanco Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy Queso Blanco Rotel Dip containing ground meat and diced tomatoes.
Queso Blanco Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Designed for sharing, this smooth and rich snack brings everyone closer while waiting for the main course. Queso Blanco Rotel Dip works great as a quick appetizer for those craving something flavorful before the grill cools down. Easy to scoop and grab, it’s one of the simplest ways to keep the group engaged around the fire. No hassle; just enjoy the sharing experience.
Get the Recipe: Queso Blanco Rotel Dip

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Three pieces of Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers on a white plate.
Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sweet but easy to handle, these skewers work as a camp dessert that doesn’t slow anyone down. Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers bring you layers of seamless flavor while sticking to a handheld style people love outdoors. Every bite feels surprising yet familiar, making it an excellent group option. Baking-like quality meets the grill for a smooth ending to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

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