Camping with a large group is a wonderful experience that combines the joys of nature with the camaraderie of friends and family. One of the key elements to a successful group camping trip is ensuring everyone is well-fed and happy. Here are some of the best camping recipes that are perfect for feeding a crowd. These recipes are easy to prepare, delicious, and guaranteed to keep everyone satisfied.
Breakfast Recipes
Campfire Breakfast Burritos
Campfire breakfast burritos are a hit with large groups. Start by cooking bacon or sausage until it’s crispy, then set it aside. In the same skillet, scramble eggs until they are just set. Warm large flour tortillas over the campfire or on a camp stove. To assemble the burritos, place a portion of scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, shredded cheese, salsa, and diced bell peppers and onions on each tortilla. Wrap the burritos in foil and heat them over the campfire until the cheese is melted. These burritos are not only filling but also easy to customize to individual tastes.
Pancake Breakfast Bar
A pancake breakfast bar is an excellent way to cater to a variety of tastes. Prepare pancake batter according to the package instructions, then cook the pancakes on a griddle over the campfire or on a camp stove. Set up a toppings bar with a variety of options such as berries, bananas, chocolate chips, syrup, whipped cream, and nuts. This allows everyone to create their perfect pancake stack, making breakfast both interactive and enjoyable.
Lunch Recipes
Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Grilled chicken and veggie skewers are perfect for a group lunch. Start by cutting chicken breasts into chunks and tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Do the same with an assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between meat and veggies. Grill the skewers over the campfire or on a portable grill until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. These skewers are healthy, flavorful, and easy to eat.
Campfire Quesadillas
Campfire quesadillas are another great option for feeding a crowd. Place a large flour tortilla in a skillet over the campfire or on a camp stove. Add shredded cheese, cooked chicken, beef, or beans, salsa, and diced bell peppers and onions to half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve. They are quick to make and easy to customize with various fillings.
Dinner Recipes
Dutch Oven Chili
Dutch oven chili is a hearty and warming dinner perfect for large groups. Begin by browning ground beef or turkey in a Dutch oven over the campfire. Once the meat is cooked, add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in canned beans (such as kidney, black, and pinto), canned diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover and let the chili simmer over the fire for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This chili is comforting and filling, ideal for feeding a hungry crowd.
Foil Packet Dinners
Foil packet dinners are convenient and versatile for group camping. Preheat the campfire or grill and prepare large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Divide ground beef or chicken breast, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and onions among the foil packets. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Fold the foil packets tightly to seal and place them on the campfire or grill. Cook for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. These packets can be customized with different seasonings and vegetables, making them a favorite among campers.
Snack and Dessert Recipes
Campfire Nachos
Campfire nachos are a great snack or meal for a large group. In a cast iron skillet or foil pan, layer tortilla chips, shredded cheese, cooked ground beef or chicken, black beans, sliced jalapeños, and diced tomatoes. Cover with foil and place over the campfire or on a grill until the cheese is melted. Top with sour cream, salsa, and chopped green onions before serving. These nachos are easy to share and perfect for a casual meal around the campfire.
S’mores Bar
A s’mores bar is a must-have dessert for any camping trip. Set up a table with graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate bars, peanut butter cups, caramel squares, and sliced strawberries or bananas. Let everyone roast their marshmallows over the campfire and create their own unique s’mores combinations. This interactive dessert is fun for all ages and a delicious way to end the day.
Conclusion
Feeding a large group while camping doesn’t have to be a daunting task. These recipes are designed to be simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing, ensuring that everyone in your group is well-fed and happy. With a little preparation and these easy-to-follow recipes, you can create memorable meals that add to the joy of your camping experience. So gather your friends and family, enjoy the great outdoors, and savor these fantastic camping meals together.