Maggie is an avid backpacker and outdoor enthusiast. She has been exploring the wilderness for over a decade and loves to share her knowledge and experience with others. Maggie is also a trained chef and enjoys cooking up delicious meals on the trail.
When it comes to camping, simplicity is key. Nobody wants to spend hours prepping and cooking elaborate meals when they could be out exploring the great outdoors. That's why I love easy camping meals with few ingredients. They're quick to make, require minimal cleanup, and still taste delicious. Here are a few of my favorite recipes:
1. Campfire Quesadillas: All you need for this tasty treat is tortillas, cheese, and your choice of fillings. Simply place a tortilla on a piece of foil, sprinkle on some cheese and your desired fillings (think: cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, or even leftover chili), and top with another tortilla. Fold the foil over the quesadilla and place it on the grill or over the campfire for a few minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
2. One-Pot Pasta: This is a lifesaver when you want a hearty meal with minimal cleanup. In a large pot, combine pasta, water, and your choice of sauce (canned tomato sauce works great). Add in some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, and season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened. This is one of the many lightweight camping food options that you can try. Serve hot and enjoy!
3. Foil Packet Dinners: Foil packet meals are a camping classic for a reason. They're incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Start by placing your protein of choice (chicken, fish, or even tofu) in the center of a large piece of foil. Add your favorite veggies, such as sliced potatoes, carrots, and onions, and season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like. Fold the foil into a packet, making sure to seal it tightly. Place the packets on the grill or over the campfire for about 20-30 minutes, or until the protein is cooked through and the veggies are tender. For more backpacking recipes, check out our guide.
4. Campfire Nachos: Who doesn't love nachos? For this easy camping meal, all you need is a bag of tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings. Spread a layer of chips on a piece of foil, then sprinkle on some cheese and your desired toppings (think: diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, black beans, and cooked ground beef or shredded chicken). Repeat the layers until you've used up all your ingredients. Place the foil packet on the grill or over the campfire for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.
These are just a few examples of easy camping meals with few ingredients. The key is to keep it simple and use ingredients that are easy to pack and store. With a little creativity, you can enjoy delicious meals even in the great outdoors. For more backpacking meal ideas, explore our collection. Happy camping!