Easy Camping Food: Beyond Burgers

When you think of camping food, burgers are probably the first thing that comes to mind. But let’s face it, burgers can get boring real quick. Plus, they’re not exactly the healthiest option. So, what if we venture beyond the classic burger? What if we explore easy camping meals that are not only delicious but also nutritious and fun to make? I’m talking about meals that’ll make you forget all about those greasy patties.

Last summer, I spent a week in the Great Smoky Mountains. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a good burger as much as the next guy, but I knew I’d get sick of them after just a few days. So, I decided to experiment with some easy camping meals that didn’t involve beef patties. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. By the end of the trip, I had a whole new appreciation for camp cooking. And so did Luna, my rescue cat who tags along on all my adventures. She’s a bit of a foodie herself!

In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of easy camping food, no burgers allowed. We’ll explore breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even some snack ideas. I’ll share some of my favorite recipes, tips, and tricks. And who knows? Maybe you’ll find a new favorite camp meal that’ll make you say, “Burgers? What burgers?”

So, grab your camping stove and let’s get cooking!

Breakfast of Champions (No, Not Burgers)

Overnight Oats

Let’s kick things off with the most important meal of the day: breakfast. Now, you might be thinking, “But Sammy, burgers are so easy to cook for breakfast.” And you’re right, they are. But hear me out. Have you ever tried overnight oats? They’re crazy easy to make and require zero cooking. Plus, they’re super customizable.

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

• 1/2 cup of rolled oats
• 1/2 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
• Your choice of fruits, nuts, and spices

Mix everything together in a jar or bowl, cover it, and let it sit overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a creamy, delicious breakfast waiting for you. I like to add sliced bananas, walnuts, and a pinch of cinnamon to mine. But the possibilities are endless. You could add berries, peanut butter, coconut flakes… whatever floats your boat.

Campfire French Toast

If you’re craving something a little more indulgent, give campfire French toast a try. It’s a bit more involved than overnight oats, but it’s worth the effort. Here’s how to make it:

• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 loaf of bread (brioche or challah works best)
• Butter for cooking

Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl. Dip each slice of bread into the mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, melt some butter in a skillet over your campfire and cook the bread until it’s golden brown and crispy. Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the cleanup. French toast can leave your skillet a bit sticky, so make sure you’ve got some hot water and soap ready to go. But ultimately, it’s a small price to pay for such a delicious breakfast.

Breakfast Burritos (No, Not the Fast Food Kind)

Maybe you’re craving something savory. In that case, give breakfast burritos a try. They’re hearty, filling, and perfect for a big day of hiking or exploring. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tortillas
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Your choice of veggies (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)
• Your choice of protein (bacon, sausage, black beans, etc.)
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Scramble your eggs in a skillet, then set them aside. In the same skillet, cook your veggies and protein until they’re heated through. Then, assemble your burritos by layering the eggs, veggies, protein, and cheese on a tortilla. Roll it up, and you’re good to go!

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Sammy, this sounds great and all, but I’m going to be hungry again in an hour.” Well, friend, that’s where the beauty of breakfast burritos comes in. They’re totally customizable. You can stuff them with as many ingredients as you want, making them as filling as you need.

Lunchtime Libations

Mason Jar Salads

Alright, let’s move on to lunch. When you’re out exploring, you want something that’s easy to pack and even easier to eat. That’s where mason jar salads come in. They’re compact, portable, and totally customizable. Plus, they look pretty darn cute.

Here’s how to build one:

1. Start with your dressing at the bottom of the jar.
2. Then, add your hearty veggies (like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers).
3. Next, add your protein (like chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu).
4. Then, add your leafy greens (like spinach, kale, or mixed greens).
5. Finally, top it off with your favorite crunchy toppings (like nuts, seeds, or croutons).

When you’re ready to eat, just shake the jar and pour it into a bowl. Voila! A healthy, delicious lunch.

Maybe I should clarify, you don’t have to use a mason jar. Any container with a lid will do. But there’s something about a mason jar that just makes food taste better, don’t you think?

Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

If you’re in the mood for something a little more sandwich-y, give chickpea salad sandwiches a try. They’re like a vegetarian version of chicken salad, and they’re crazy delicious.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons of mayo (vegan or regular)
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup of diced celery
• 1/4 cup of diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon of dill pickle relish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bread or tortillas
• Lettuce and tomato (optional)

In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until they’re mostly broken up. Then, add the mayo, mustard, celery, onion, relish, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Spread the chickpea salad on a slice of bread or a tortilla, add some lettuce and tomato if you’d like, and enjoy! I like to add a little hot sauce to mine for an extra kick.

Campfire Quesadillas

Maybe you’re feeling something a little more… cheesy. In that case, campfire quesadillas are the way to go. They’re crispy, gooey, and perfect for a lunchtime pick-me-up.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tortillas
• Cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or your favorite)
• Your choice of fillings (cooked veggies, beans, cooked chicken, etc.)
• Butter or oil for cooking

Heat some butter or oil in a skillet over your campfire. Place a tortilla in the skillet, then sprinkle some cheese on top. Add your fillings, then sprinkle some more cheese on top of that. Place another tortilla on top, then cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side.

Cut into triangles and serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Dinnertime Delights

Campfire Paella

Alright, let’s talk about dinner. You’ve been out exploring all day, and you’re ready for something hearty and satisfying. Well, let me introduce you to campfire paella.

Yes, you read that right. Paella. The Spanish dish that’s usually cooked in a special pan and served at fancy restaurants. But trust me, it’s totally doable over a campfire. And it’s crazy delicious.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of rice
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of saffron
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Your choice of protein (shrimp, chicken, sausage, etc.)
• Your choice of veggies (artichoke hearts, peas, etc.)

In a large skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic in some oil until they’re softened. Add the rice and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the broth, tomatoes, saffron, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.

Add your protein and veggies, then cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

Is this a lot of work? Yeah, kind of. But is it worth it? Absolutely. Plus, think about how impressed your fellow campers will be when you whip up a paella in the middle of the woods.

Foil Packet Fajitas

If you’re looking for something a little simpler, give foil packet fajitas a try. They’re easy to prepare, easy to cook, and easy to clean up. Plus, they’re freaking delicious.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your choice of protein (chicken, steak, shrimp, etc.), sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 packet of fajita seasoning
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• Tortillas
• Your favorite fajita toppings (sour cream, guacamole, salsa, etc.)

In a bowl, combine the protein, bell pepper, onion, fajita seasoning, and oil. Mix everything together until it’s well coated. Then, divide the mixture evenly among a few sheets of foil, folding the edges to create a sealed packet.

Place the packets on the grill or over the campfire and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the protein is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

One-Pot Chili

Maybe it’s a chilly night, and you’re craving something warm and comforting. In that case, one-pot chili is the way to go. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cool evening.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound of ground turkey or beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 packet of chili seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, cook the ground meat over medium heat until it’s browned. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until they’re softened. Then, add the tomatoes, beans, chili seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve with shredded cheese, chopped onions, or sour cream.

I’m torn between telling you to stick to the recipe and encouraging you to experiment. But ultimately, chili is one of those dishes that’s hard to mess up. So, feel free to add your favorite ingredients or spices. Make it your own!

Snack Attack

Trail Mix

Alright, we’ve covered breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But what about those in-between moments when you’re feeling a little peckish? That’s where snacks come in.

Let’s start with the classic: trail mix. It’s easy to make, easy to pack, and perfect for a quick energy boost.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your choice of nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts, etc.)
• Your choice of dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, etc.)
• Your choice of add-ins (chocolate chips, pretzels, seeds, etc.)

Combine everything in a bowl, then divvy it up into individual portions. Store in an airtight container until you’re ready to hit the trail.

Energy Bites

If you’re looking for something a little more… bite-sized, give energy bites a try. They’re like tiny little power nuggets, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup of oats
• 1/2 cup of peanut butter
• 1/3 cup of honey
• 1 cup of add-ins (chocolate chips, dried fruit, coconut flakes, etc.)

In a bowl, mix together the oats, peanut butter, and honey until it’s well combined. Then, stir in your add-ins. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, then store in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to go.

But be warned: these things are addictive. You might find yourself popping them like candy.

Campfire Popcorn

Maybe you’re in the mood for something a little more… poppin’. In that case, campfire popcorn is the way to go. It’s fun to make, fun to eat, and perfect for a late-night snack.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Popcorn kernels
• Oil
• A large pot with a lid
• Your favorite popcorn seasonings (salt, butter, nutritional yeast, etc.)

Heat some oil in the pot over your campfire. Add a single layer of popcorn kernels, then cover the pot with the lid. Shake the pot gently as the kernels start to pop. Once the popping slows down, remove the pot from the heat and pour the popcorn into a bowl.

Add your favorite seasonings and enjoy!

The Art of Camp Cooking

Listen, I get it. Camp cooking can be intimidating. You’re out in the wilderness, away from all your fancy kitchen gadgets. But trust me, it’s not as hard as it seems. In fact, it can be downright fun.

The key to successful camp cooking is preparation. Before you head out, plan your meals and gather your ingredients. Prep as much as you can ahead of time. Chop your veggies, measure your spices, and pack everything in airtight containers.

And don’t be afraid to get creative. Camp cooking is all about improvisation. Don’t have a spatula? Use a stick. Forgot the cutting board? Use a (clean) rock. The possibilities are endless. And so, it’s not like this is a survival situation, right? Right. So, maybe I should say, the possibilities are quite numerous, and it’s fun to explore.

But most importantly, have fun with it. Camp cooking is as much about the experience as it is about the food. So, grab a beer, gather your friends, and enjoy the process. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite hobby.

Call to Action: Get Out There and Cook!

Alright, friend. We’ve covered a lot of ground here. From overnight oats to campfire paella, we’ve explored the wide world of easy camping food. No burgers in sight.

So, here’s your challenge: on your next camping trip, I dare you to step outside your comfort zone. Leave the burgers at home and try something new. Pick one (or more!) of the recipes from this article and give it a shot. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll find a new favorite camp meal. Maybe you’ll discover a hidden talent for camp cooking. Maybe you’ll just have a lot of fun trying.

Either way, get out there and cook! The wilderness awaits.

FAQ

Q: What if I don’t have a campfire? Can I still make these recipes?
A: Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be made on a camp stove or even a portable grill. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q: How do I keep my food cold while camping?
A: A good cooler is essential for keeping your food cold. Be sure to pack it with plenty of ice or ice packs, and keep it in the shade as much as possible. Also, try to open it as infrequently as possible to keep the cold air in.

Q: What should I do with my leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be a bit tricky while camping. If you have a cooler, you can store them in there. Otherwise, you might want to consider packing them out with you. Remember, leave no trace!

Q: What’s your favorite camping meal?
A: That’s a tough one. But if I had to choose, I’d say campfire paella. It’s a bit of work, but it’s so worth it. Plus, it’s always a hit with my fellow campers.

@article{easy-camping-food-beyond-burgers,
    title   = {Easy Camping Food: Beyond Burgers},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/camp-food-easy-recipes-no-burgers/}
}