Say goodbye to boring camp meals and hello to easy camping dinners that are fun, fast and full of taste. Your next trip just got an upgrade. These easy camping dinners tick all the right boxes: simple, flavourful and easy to clean up. The holy grail of outdoor cooking!

Let’s face it camping isn’t just about the scenery. The food plays a starring role. Everything cooked in the open air tastes better, doesn’t it? That’s why we’re thrilled to share our top picks for easy camping dinners.

We’ve compiled a list of tried and true favourites that always make it onto our camping menu. Then, we dug deep into our recipe collection to find easy camping dinners that meet these essential criteria:

1. Require only one piece of cookware (a frying pan, saucepan, foil packet, or camp oven
2. Feature quick to prepare ingredients
3. Can be partially or entirely prepped ahead of time

Ready to discover your next easy camping dinners? These ideas are designed to keep you out of the kitchen (or campfire) and immersed in the great outdoors. Let’s dive in!

Campfire Osso Buco

List Of 69 Easy Camping Dinners

1. One Pot Pasta
   A one-pot wonder for a quick, hearty meal.
   Ingredients: Pasta, tinned tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, spinach, salt, pepper, grated cheese
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Simmer pasta and ingredients in a single pot until tender and sauce is absorbed.
   Cooking Time: 15 minutes
2. Campfire Nachos
   A crowd-pleaser with a crunchy, cheesy twist.
   Ingredients: Tortilla chips, shredded cheese, salsa, black beans, sour cream, jalapeños (optional)
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Layer ingredients in foil, wrap and heat over a campfire or on a grill.
   Cooking Time: 10 minutes
3. Stir-Fry Noodles
   A quick, veggie-packed meal for any appetite.
   Ingredients: Instant noodles, mixed veggies, soy sauce, sesame oil, cooked chicken or tofu
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Stir-fry veggies and protein, then add noodles and sauce.
   Cooking Time: 15 minutes
4. Foil Pack Burgers
   Classic burgers without the grill mess.
   Ingredients: Beef mince, burger buns, cheese slices, sliced onion, tomato, lettuce, sauce
   Ease: Medium
   Cooking Method: Shape patties, wrap in foil with toppings and cook over campfire or grill.
   Cooking Time: 20 minutes
5. Chilli Con Carne
   A filling, smoky dish great for sharing.
   Ingredients: Minced beef, kidney beans, onion, garlic, tomato paste, chilli powder, cumin
   Ease: Medium
   Cooking Method: Brown beef, add ingredients, simmer until thickened.
   Cooking Time: 25 minutes
6. Loaded Jacket Potatoes
   A warm and customisable meal for chilly nights.
   Ingredients: Potatoes, cheese, baked beans, sour cream, chives
   Ease: Medium
   Cooking Method: Bake potatoes in foil over campfire; top with desired ingredients.
   Cooking Time: 40 minutes
7. Sausage and Veggie Skewers
   Simple skewers for easy grilling or roasting.
   Ingredients: Sausages, capsicum, zucchini, onion, olive oil, salt, pepper
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Thread ingredients on skewers, season and grill over flame.
   Cooking Time: 15 minutes
8. Tuna Pasta Salad
   A no-cook, refreshing option.
   Ingredients: Pasta, tinned tuna, mayo, sweet corn, spring onion, lemon juice
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Mix cooked pasta with other ingredients; serve chilled or at room temp.
   Cooking Time: 10 minutes
9. Campfire Pizzas
   Pizza fix with a camping twist.
   Ingredients: Flatbreads, pizza sauce, shredded cheese, pepperoni, veggies
   Ease: Easy
   Cooking Method: Assemble on flatbreads, wrap in foil and heat over a fire.
   Cooking Time: 10 minutes
10. Egg and Bacon Wraps
    Great for dinner or brekkie.
    Ingredients: Tortillas, eggs, bacon, cheese, salsa
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Fry bacon and eggs, then wrap with cheese and salsa in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
11. Campfire Stew
    A hearty and warming stew perfect for chilly nights.
    Ingredients: Beef stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, beef stock, thyme, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Brown meat, then simmer with vegetables and stock until tender.
    Cooking Time: 45 minutes
12. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
    A classic camping comfort food.
    Ingredients: Bread, butter, cheese slices
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Butter bread, place cheese in the middle and grill over the fire or on a pan.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
13. Chicken Fajitas
    Flavorful fajitas with grilled chicken and veggies.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, capsicum, onion, fajita seasoning, tortillas
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Grill chicken and veggies, then wrap in tortillas with seasoning.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
14. Pasta Carbonara
    A creamy pasta dish made easy for the campfire.
    Ingredients: Pasta, eggs, bacon, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook pasta, then toss with bacon, eggs and cheese to create a creamy sauce.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
15. Vegetable Curry
    A spicy, veggie-packed dish that’s easy to prepare.
    Ingredients: Mixed vegetables, curry paste, coconut milk, rice
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer vegetables in curry paste and coconut milk, serve with rice.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
16. BBQ Chicken Wraps
    Quick wraps with grilled chicken and fresh veggies.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, tortillas, lettuce, tomato, cheese, BBQ sauce
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill chicken, then wrap with veggies and BBQ sauce in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
17. Fish Tacos
    Fresh and light tacos with grilled fish and toppings.
    Ingredients: Fish fillets, tortillas, cabbage, lime, salsa, sour cream
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Grill fish, then assemble with toppings in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Camping Dinner Easy Meal

18. Minestrone Soup
    A classic vegetable soup with pasta and beans.
    Ingredients: Tinned tomatoes, mixed vegetables, pasta, kidney beans, garlic, vegetable stock, thyme
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer all ingredients until the vegetables and pasta are cooked.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
19. Breakfast Hash For Dinner
    A satisfying, one-pan breakfast-for-dinner option.
    Ingredients: Potatoes, eggs, bacon, onion, cheese, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook bacon and potatoes, then scramble eggs into the mix.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
20. Campfire Quesadillas
    Cheesy quesadillas with a simple filling.
    Ingredients: Tortillas, cheese, cooked chicken or beans, salsa
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Fill tortillas with cheese and chicken/beans, then cook on a grill or pan until crispy.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
21. BBQ Ribs
    Tender, smoky ribs cooked over a campfire.
    Ingredients: Pork ribs, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Coat ribs in seasoning and BBQ sauce, then cook over the fire until tender.
    Cooking Time: 45 minutes
22. Vegetable Stir-Fry
    A quick and healthy stir-fry with seasonal veggies.
    Ingredients: Mixed vegetables, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Stir-fry veggies with garlic, ginger and soy sauce, then serve with rice.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
23. Chicken and Rice Casserole
    A hearty casserole made with chicken and rice.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, rice, onion, garlic, chicken broth, peas, cheese
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Combine ingredients in a pot and simmer until chicken is cooked and rice is tender.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
24. Campfire Chili Dogs
    A quick and fun twist on a classic camping meal.
    Ingredients: Hot dogs, buns, chilli, cheese, onion
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook hot dogs, then top with chilli, cheese and onions in buns.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
25. Shakshuka
    A Middle Eastern dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.
    Ingredients: Eggs, tinned tomatoes, onion, garlic, capsicums, cumin, paprika, olive oil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook vegetables and spices in a pan, then crack eggs on top and simmer until cooked.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
26. Pork and Apple Skewers
    Sweet and savoury skewers perfect for grilling.
    Ingredients: Pork tenderloin, apple, onion, olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Thread pork, apple and onion on skewers, then grill over the fire.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
27. Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
    A vegetarian option with a cheesy filling.
    Ingredients: Portobello mushrooms, spinach, cream cheese, garlic, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Stuff mushrooms with spinach and cheese, then bake or grill until golden.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
28. Curry Sausages
    A simple sausage dish with a curry twist.
    Ingredients: Sausages, curry powder, onions, coconut milk, rice
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook sausages, then simmer with onions, curry powder and coconut milk; serve with rice.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes
29. Grilled Veggie Tacos
    Fresh, grilled vegetables wrapped in soft tortillas.
    Ingredients: Mixed vegetables (capsicum, zucchini, corn, onion), tortillas, salsa, avocado, lime
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill veggies, then serve in tortillas with salsa and avocado.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes

EASY Camping Dinners

30. Crispy Fried Fish
    Lightly battered fish fillets, perfect for a quick dinner.
    Ingredients: Fish fillets, flour, egg, breadcrumbs, oil, lemon
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Coat fish in batter, then fry until crispy and serve with lemon wedges.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
31. Campfire Sausage and Bean Stew
    A hearty stew made with sausages and beans.
    Ingredients: Sausages, canned beans, tinned tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, vegetable broth
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook sausages, then simmer with beans, tomatoes and broth until flavours meld.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
32. Bacon and Egg Muffins
    A breakfast-for-dinner option with bacon, eggs and cheese.
    Ingredients: English muffins, eggs, bacon, cheese, butter
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook bacon and eggs, then assemble in toasted muffin halves with cheese.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
33. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
    Tender pulled pork with BBQ sauce served in buns.
    Ingredients: Pulled pork, BBQ sauce, burger buns, coleslaw
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Slow-cook pulled pork, then serve with BBQ sauce on buns and coleslaw on the side.
    Cooking Time: 45 minutes
34. Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
    A one-pan dish with smoky sausage and cabbage.
    Ingredients: Sausages, cabbage, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Sauté sausages, then add cabbage and cook until tender.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
35. Chicken Alfredo
    Creamy pasta with chicken, a comforting dish for camp meals.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, pasta, cream, parmesan cheese, garlic, butter
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook pasta, then make a creamy sauce with butter, cream and parmesan and add cooked chicken.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes
36. Pasta Primavera
    A veggie-packed pasta dish with a light sauce.
    Ingredients: Pasta, mixed vegetables, garlic, olive oil, parmesan cheese
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook pasta, then toss with sautéed veggies, olive oil and parmesan cheese.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
37. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
    Quick and tasty shrimp skewers for a light dinner.
    Ingredients: Shrimp, garlic, olive oil, lemon, salt, pepper, skewers
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Marinate shrimp, thread onto skewers, then grill over the fire.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
38. Vegetarian Burritos
    A quick, meatless option with beans, rice and veggies.
    Ingredients: Tortillas, rice, black beans, corn, avocado, salsa, cheese
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Layer rice, beans, corn, salsa and cheese in tortillas, then wrap and serve.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
39. Campfire Pizza Potatoes
    Baked potatoes topped with pizza-style ingredients.
    Ingredients: Potatoes, pizza sauce, cheese, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Bake potatoes, then top with pizza ingredients and cook until cheese melts.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
40. Chickpea Curry
    A rich, spicy vegetarian curry perfect for a filling meal.
    Ingredients: Chickpeas, tinned tomatoes, coconut milk, onion, garlic, curry powder, rice
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer chickpeas and tomatoes with coconut milk and curry powder, serve with rice.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
41. Beef and Vegetable Kebabs
    Grilled skewers with tender beef and fresh vegetables.
    Ingredients: Beef steak, capsicum, onion, zucchini, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Thread beef and vegetables on skewers, season and grill over the fire.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
42. BBQ Chicken Skewers
    Juicy BBQ chicken grilled on skewers with a smoky glaze.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, BBQ sauce, onion, capsicum, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Thread chicken and veggies on skewers, brush with BBQ sauce, then grill.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
43. Veggie Frittata
    A simple, cheesy frittata packed with fresh vegetables.
    Ingredients: Eggs, spinach, mushrooms, onion, cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Whisk eggs and cook with sautéed vegetables, then finish by baking in a pan.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes

EASY Camping Dinners Camp Oven Upside Down Lasagne

44. Campfire Paella
    A one-pan dish with rice, seafood and a blend of spices.
    Ingredients: Rice, seafood (shrimp, mussels, fish), onion, garlic, tomato, paprika, vegetable broth
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Sauté vegetables and seafood, add rice and broth, then cook until rice is tender.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
45. Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
    A vegetarian twist on pulled pork sandwiches using jackfruit.
    Ingredients: Canned jackfruit, BBQ sauce, coleslaw, burger buns
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer jackfruit in BBQ sauce, then serve on buns with coleslaw.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
46. Grilled Veggie and Hummus Wraps
    Healthy wraps with grilled veggies and creamy hummus.
    Ingredients: Tortillas, zucchini, eggplant, capsicum, hummus, spinach
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill vegetables, then wrap with hummus and spinach in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
47. Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
    Juicy chicken breasts filled with spinach and cheese.
    Ingredients: Chicken breasts, spinach, cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Stuff chicken with spinach and cheese, then cook over the fire or in a pan.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes
48. Lamb and Mint Skewers
    Tender lamb marinated with mint, grilled on skewers.
    Ingredients: Lamb cubes, mint, garlic, olive oil, lemon, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Marinate lamb in mint and garlic, thread onto skewers, then grill.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
49. Spaghetti Bolognese
    A classic, comforting pasta dish with a rich meat sauce.
    Ingredients: Spaghetti, minced beef, onion, garlic, tinned tomatoes, tomato paste, basil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook the beef and sauce ingredients, then toss with cooked spaghetti.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes
50. Chicken Caesar Wraps
    A quick, tasty wrap with grilled chicken and Caesar salad.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, tortillas, lettuce, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, croutons
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill chicken, then wrap with lettuce, dressing and cheese in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
51. Sausage and Capsicums
    A simple and flavourful dish with sausages and sautéed capsicums.
    Ingredients: Sausages, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook sausages, then sauté capsicums and onions with garlic until tender.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
52. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
    A hearty and nutritious vegetarian chili.
    Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, black beans, tinned tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, vegetable broth
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer all ingredients together until the sweet potatoes are tender.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
53. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
    A fresh, light meal with grilled chicken and a creamy dressing.
    Ingredients: Chicken breast, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, croutons
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill chicken, then toss with lettuce, dressing and toppings.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
54. Campfire Ramen (3 minute Noodles)
    A quick and satisfying ramen (3 minute noodle) dish made over the campfire.
    Ingredients: Instant ramen noodles, vegetables (carrot, spinach), soy sauce, sesame oil
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook noodles, then add vegetables and seasonings for a tasty soup.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
55. Pork Tacos
    Simple tacos with seasoned pork and all the toppings.
    Ingredients: Pork mince, taco seasoning, tortillas, lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook pork with seasoning, then serve in tortillas with toppings.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
56. Grilled Halloumi Skewers
    Vegetarian skewers with the deliciously salty grilled cheese.
    Ingredients: Halloumi, cherry tomatoes, capsicum, zucchini, olive oil, lemon juice
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Thread halloumi and vegetables on skewers, then grill until golden.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
57. Fish and Chips
    A classic camp meal with battered fish and crispy fries.
    Ingredients: Fish fillets, potatoes, flour, egg, breadcrumbs, oil, lemon
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Batter and fry fish, then cook chips (potatoes) in the same oil.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
58. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
    A quick stir-fry with tender beef and fresh broccoli.
    Ingredients: Beef strips, broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Stir-fry beef and broccoli, then serve over cooked rice.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
59. Pasta Puttanesca
    A simple, flavour-packed pasta dish with olives and capers.
    Ingredients: Pasta, tinned tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, anchovies (optional), olive oil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Simmer sauce ingredients, then toss with cooked pasta.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
60. Breakfast Burritos
    A filling, savoury wrap for breakfast or dinner.
    Ingredients: Eggs, tortillas, bacon, cheese, salsa
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Cook bacon and eggs, then wrap with cheese and salsa in tortillas.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
61. Campfire Queso Dip
    A cheesy, spicy dip perfect for snacking by the campfire.
    Ingredients: Cheese, salsa, beans, jalapeños (optional), tortilla chips
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Melt cheese and salsa together, then serve with chips.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
62. BBQ Meatball Subs
    Juicy meatballs with BBQ sauce served in soft rolls.
    Ingredients: Beef mince, breadcrumbs, egg, BBQ sauce, sub rolls, cheese
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Shape meatballs, cook in sauce, then serve in rolls with melted cheese.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes

EASY Camping Dinners Chicken Curry

63. Grilled Veggie Fajitas
    Tasty fajitas with grilled veggies and a smoky seasoning.
    Ingredients: Capsicum, onion, zucchini, fajita seasoning, tortillas
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Grill veggies, then wrap in tortillas with fajita seasoning and toppings.
    Cooking Time: 15 minutes
64. Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
    A light and fresh sandwich filled with chickpeas and mayo.
    Ingredients: Canned chickpeas, mayo, mustard, lemon juice, celery, bread
    Ease: Easy
    Cooking Method: Mash chickpeas with mayo and mustard, then serve in bread with celery.
    Cooking Time: 10 minutes
65. Steak and Veggies
    A classic camp meal of grilled steak and seasoned vegetables.
    Ingredients: Steak, potatoes, carrots, onion, olive oil, salt, pepper
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Grill steak, then sauté or roast veggies on the side.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
66. Sausage Pasta
    A simple pasta dish with juicy sausages and a tomato-based sauce.
    Ingredients: Pasta, sausages, tinned tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook pasta and sausages, then combine with sauce ingredients.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
67. Crispy Chicken Tenders
    Golden, crispy chicken tenders perfect for dipping.
    Ingredients: Chicken strips, flour, breadcrumbs, egg, oil
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Coat chicken in flour, egg and breadcrumbs, then fry until golden.
    Cooking Time: 20 minutes
68. Mushroom Risotto
    A creamy, comforting risotto made with fresh mushrooms.
    Ingredients: Rice, mushrooms, vegetable broth, parmesan cheese, garlic, onion
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Cook rice with broth and sautéed mushrooms until creamy and tender.
    Cooking Time: 30 minutes
69. BBQ Veggie Burgers
    Hearty veggie burgers with a smoky BBQ twist.
    Ingredients: Black beans, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, burger buns
    Ease: Medium
    Cooking Method: Mash beans, mix with breadcrumbs and seasoning, then fry patties and serve in buns.
    Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Easy Camping Dinners

The Joy of Cooking Outdoors
Cooking outdoors isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about embracing the simplicity of nature. The crackling fire, the smell of sizzling food and the laughter shared around a makeshift table create memories that stay with you. Easy camping dinners are the perfect way to blend culinary delight with the serenity of the great outdoors.

Why Easy Camping Dinners Matter
After a full day of hiking, swimming, or just soaking in the sights, no one wants to wrestle with complicated recipes. Easy camping dinners ensure you can whip up satisfying meals without losing precious time better spent stargazing or unwinding.

Planning For Easy Camping Dinners For Success

Packing the Right Ingredients
Every successful camping trip begins with smart packing. Simple camping dinners call for versatile ingredients like pasta, rice, canned beans and ready-to-eat sauces. Include fresh items such as pre-chopped vegetables and frozen proteins to extend their life in your esky.

Essential Cooking Tools for the Campsite
There’s no need to bring your entire kitchen arsenal to the campsite. Stick to the basics: a sturdy cast-iron skillet, a versatile knife and a lightweight cutting board. A roll of aluminium foil is essential for easy camping dinners—perfect for foil packet meals that keep things tidy.

Easy Camping Dinners – Quick and Delicious Recipes

One-Pot Wonders
One-pot meals are the unsung heroes of simple camping dinners. From hearty chilli loaded with beans to creamy one-pot pasta, these recipes cut down on cleanup and deliver comfort in every bite. A quick chicken and rice dish seasoned with garlic and herbs can be a game-changer after a long day.

Grilled Perfection
The grill is your go-to for smoky, flavourful dishes. Think marinated chicken skewers, foil-wrapped salmon with lemon and dill, or charred veggie medleys. Simple camping dinners like these let the natural flavours of fresh ingredients shine over an open flame.

No Cook Options for Lazy Nights
Not every night calls for fire. No cook meals like wraps stuffed with hummus, roasted capsicum and deli meats or salads with canned tuna and a zesty dressing are lifesavers for lazy evenings. These easy camping dinners come together in minutes, leaving you more time to relax.

Tips for Simplifying Camp Cooking

Prepping at Home to Save Time
Preparing ingredients before your trip makes whipping up easy camping dinners a breeze. Chop vegetables, measure out spices and pre-mix marinades at home. Store them in resealable bags or containers to save space and time at the campsite.

Using Multi-Purpose Ingredients
Streamline your packing by choosing ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. Tortillas are excellent for wraps and can double as a base for campfire quesadillas. Canned beans work for everything from salads to stews, making them staples for simple camping dinners.

Cleaning Up Without the Hassle
A clean campsite is a happy campsite. Use foil liners in your cookware to minimize mess and biodegradable soap for easy cleanup. For truly simple camping dinners, consider disposable plates or bowls that can be safely recycled or composted.

Pork Chops And Broccoli

Making Memories Around the Campfire

How Food Brings People Together
There’s something magical about sharing meals in the wilderness. Easy camping dinners allow you to spend more time connecting with your fellow campers. The stories, laughter and camaraderie shared over simple camping dinners often become the highlight of the trip.

Adding a Personal Touch to Your Meals
Elevate even the simplest camping dinners with a dash of creativity. A favourite spice blend, a drizzle of olive oil, or a handful of fresh herbs can transform a meal. These small details add a personal touch, turning ordinary dishes into memorable ones.

Final Thoughts

Easy camping dinners are proof that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. With a little planning, the right tools and some creative recipes, you can enjoy simple camping dinners that are delicious, hassle-free and perfect for fueling your outdoor adventures.

Learn from Jack Absalom the original camp oven bush cooking legend. His simple yet awesome camp oven recipes are perfect for any camping trip. If there’s one name that stands out in the world of camp oven cooking, it’s Jack Absalom. A true Aussie legend. Jack is the undisputed “OG” of camp oven cookbooks.

Jack Absalom’s book Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven has been a game changer for so many of us who love the simplicity and charm of camp oven cooking. It was more than 20 years ago when I first stumbled across his camp oven cookbook and honestly, it was this book that sparked my obsession with camp oven cooking. Jack Absalom isn’t just a name in our camp kitchen – he’s a hero and a deadset legend.

Jack And Reg Absalom Book Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven

Who Is Jack Absalom?

Jack Absalom is as Aussie as it gets. An outback artist, author, bushman and television personality. Born in 1927 in Port Augusta, South Australia, Jack had a deep connection with the bush from an early age. He was known first and foremost for his paintings of the Australian outback. But it’s his skills in camp oven cooking that made him known to me. A household name for anyone who enjoys life on the road or a good bush tucker feed.

His travels took him all over the wild outback and it was during these journeys that he perfected the art of cooking with nothing more than a camp oven. Some basic ingredients and a fire. He taught generations of Aussies how to create meals in the most remote places. Making his book Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven the ultimate guide to mastering bush cooking.

For me Jack wasn’t just a cook. He was and still is an inspiration. The man could whip up a hearty meal with barely any ingredients all while surrounded by the harsh yet stunning Australian wilderness. No fancy kitchen gadgets, no electricity, just a hot fire and a camp oven.

How I Came Across Camp Oven Cooking By Jack Absalom’s Book

It was about 20 years ago when I first came across Jack Absalom’s book. I was looking through a used bookstore front window in Cootamundra. When I saw the cover of Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven staring back at me. I had heard about this book from someone, I can’t remember who it was now. I’d just bought a camp oven so I went in and bought it.

Up until that point cooking while camping was just something I did on a little two burner cooker. But with Jack’s easy-to-follow recipes and laid back approach I realised that cooking in the bush could be fun. From his damper recipe to a simple roast chook, Jack’s no fuss style of cooking gave me the confidence to experiment with camp ovens and eventually make it a core part of my camping.

Jack Absalom: The OG Of Camp Oven Cooking

Before there were endless YouTube tutorials and gourmet bush cooking shows there was Jack Absalom. And let me tell you no one quite does it like Jack. His charm lies in his simplicity and practicality. He didn’t need flash and flair just a well seasoned camp oven, a good fire and the basic ingredients he could carry with him. And that’s what makes him the OG of camp oven cooking.

Jack’s book isn’t filled with overly complicated techniques or fancy ingredients you can only find in specialty stores. His recipes are for the everyday Aussie, the kind of bloke or lady who wants to whip up a decent feed out in the bush without all the fuss. His style of cooking speaks to the heart of outback life: rough, rugged and hearty.

I reckon a big part of what makes Jack such a legend is his ability to connect with people. He made camp oven cooking accessible to anyone. His recipes are straightforward. His instructions are easy to follow and his attitude towards cooking is relaxed and fun. It’s like having old mate Jack by your side guiding you through every step of the way.

What Makes Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven Special?

The book isn’t just a collection of recipes it’s wisdom from a bloke who’s spent loads of time perfecting his craft. Jack not only shares recipes but also tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your camp oven. From choosing the right kind of wood for your fire to knowing when the coals are just right for baking bread Jack’s knowledge is worth its weight in gold.

osso Buco in A Spun Steel Camp Oven

A Few Of My Favourite Recipes From The Book

One of the best parts of Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven is its variety. Whether you’re after a simple stew or something sweet to finish off the night Jack’s book has got you covered. Here are some of my favourite recipes from the book that I reckon everyone should try:

1. Damper – You can’t talk about camp oven cooking without mentioning damper. Jack’s recipe is as classic as they come—simple ingredients, minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
2. Roast Lamb – There’s nothing quite like a roast lamb cooked to perfection in a camp oven. Jack’s method ensures the meat is tender and full of flavour, with crispy skin to boot.
3. Beef Stew – A hearty beef stew is exactly what you need on a chilly outback night. Jack’s recipe uses simple, easy-to-pack ingredients that come together in a rich, tasty stew.
4. Curried Sausages – This is the kind of meal that brings a bit of warmth and spice to a cool night. Jack’s recipe is quick, easy and absolutely delicious.
5. Apple Crumble – If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth like me, Jack’s apple crumble is a must-try. The smell alone will have everyone around the campfire drooling.

What Makes Jack A Camp Oven Legend

Over the past 20 years I’ve tried my hand at plenty of camp oven recipes but Jack’s are the ones I keep coming back to. His book is like an old mate that never lets you down. Reliable, straightforward and always there when you need it. The way he simplifies things while still making meals that taste like a bit of home. This what makes him a legend.

It’s not just about the food, though. Jack represents a way of life that resonates with anyone who’s spent time in the Aussie bush. It’s about enjoying the simple things. Being resourceful and making the most out of what you’ve got. And to me that’s what camp oven cooking is all about. Making something that’s good to eat with what you have with you.

Jack’s Legacy In Camp Oven Cooking

Even though Jack is no longer with us his legacy lives on in the kitchens (or campsites) of anyone who loves a good feed. His influence can be seen in the many camp oven cookbooks that have come after his. For me nothing quite compares to the original. Jack set the standard and to this day he remains the gold standard of bush cooking.

Conclusion

Outback Cooking in the Camp Oven by Jack Absalom is more than just a cookbook. It’s a real piece of Australian history, a slice of bush wisdom and a constant source of inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned bush cook or a newbie to it Jack’s book is a must have. His no nonsense approach to camp oven cooking makes it easy to create delicious meals even if you’re miles away from a proper kitchen. If you’re like me and want to embrace the simplicity and charm of bush cooking do yourself a favour and grab a copy of this classic. Jack Absalom is the true hero of camp oven cooking. With his guidance you’ll be cooking up a legendary feed in the outback in no time.

So, here’s to Jack. The man, the myth, the legend. And to many more camp oven adventures ahead!

My Copy Of The Book Outback Cooking In The Camp Oven

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Oven Cooking By Jack Absalom’s Book

This easy chicken curry camp oven recipe is a favourite of ours. we’ve cooked it for others loads of times and nobody has ever complained about it either!

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
Cooking Time: 2 Hours
Serves: 2 to 4

Combining Ingredients In Camp Oven

Ingredients For Chicken Curry Camp Oven Recipe

1. 500gm chicken thigh fillets (works great with drumsticks or gravy beef as well)
2. 1 x Large Onion
3. 2 x medium potatoes
4. 2 x medium carrots
5. 1 x can of masaman curry paste (available in just about all grocery stores – can get it in a larger jar if you are cooking for more or seal the jar and cook more next week). We like the Maesri brand
6. 1 x can of coconut milk
7. Rice for serving

Getting Coals Ready For Camp Oven

Preparation Instructions

1. Roughly dice chicken into chunks
2. Slice onion into strips
3. Roughly cut potato into bite sized cubes
4. Chop the carrots into chunky sized pieces

Masaman Curry Paste And Coconut Milk

Chicken Curry Camp Oven Recipe Cooking Instructions

1. Brown chicken and onion in camp oven over coals – either hang oven from a tripod or sit it on a BBQ plate
2. Chuck the potatoes and carrots into the pot
3. Add the can of masaman curry (as much as you like according to taste) and the can of coconut milk
4. Stir it all through to combine then put the lid on the camp oven
5. Cook slowly for a couple of hours. You want just a bubble or two coming to the surface of the curry every few seconds
6. Once the potatoes are nice and tender it’s ready to serve

Serving Instructions

1. Serve on a bed of rice – we like to use Basmati or any long grain. You can also use the precooked microwave rice but instead of heating it in a microwave (we don’t have one when camping) just chuck it into the curry and stir it through

Chicken Curry Camp Oven Recipe Served On Rice

What is Massaman Curry?

Even though it’s a Thai classic, Massaman curry is though to have originated in the neighbouring Muslim state of Malaysia. Ever since the 17th century it’s been a staple part of Thai cuisine. Rich and tangy but not too spicy Masaman is unusual amongst Thai curries in that it doesn’t include curry leaves as part of the cooking process. Coconut milk introduces a tasty tropical tang and the use of potatoes bulk it out to be a one-pot meal in itself. You’ll frequently find yourself having rice served alongside your Masaman.

Browning Chicken And Onion

Origins of Masaman Curry

How did a likely Malay origin Muslim dish make its way onto Thailand’s national menu? There are a few different theories of course. Here’s the one we like. Back in the 17th Century the ties between southern Thailand Malaysia were strong and cultural influences were swapped on both sides of the border. Recipes were shared and the local people around Trang and Hat Yai started experimenting with this awesome dish. Around same time the Persian merchant Sheik Ahmad Qomi was visiting the royal court of Ayutthaya with a very similar recipe that became wildly popular amongst nobility and royalty. The two recipes combined and there you go a modern day classic was born.

Conclusion

This is a bloody ripper recipe. It’s easy to cook in a camp oven and the ingredients are cheap and easy to carry when camping. You can see more camp cooking tips and ideas in our Aussie Camp Cooking category.

Cooking Camp Oven Chicken Curry Over Coals

What could be a better camping meal idea than slow cooked pork chops and gravy? Not very much! This is a very easy recipe to make while out and about camping. We even do it once a month or so when we are at home it’s that good.

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
Cooking Time: 3 Hours
Serves: 2 to 4

Camping Pork Chops And Gravy

Ingredients For Slow Cooked Pork And Gravy

• 4 x Pork Loin Chops
• 1 x Large Onion
• 200gm x Fresh Mushrooms
• Butter Or Margarine
• Paprika
• SPG (Salt/Pepper/Garlic)
• Minced Garlic
• 2 x Chicken Stock Cubes
• 3 x Cups Of Water
• Cornflour Or Plain Flour
• Deb Instant Mashed Potato (Or Boiled Mashed potatoes If You Prefer)
• Coleslaw
• Corn On The Cob

Gravy Ingredients For Pork Onions Mushrooms Paprika Garlic

Cooking Instructions

1. Season pork loin chops with SPG then brown lightly in a frying pan and then set them aside.
2. Chop onion and mushrooms roughly.
3. Add butter to frying pan and throw in onion and mushrooms then cook until they soften.
4. Add a few teaspoons of minced garlic to the pan. Add in paprika and a few cups of water then crumble in the chicken stock cubes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Put the loin chops back in to the frying pan and cover with the gravy mixture. Add a bit more water if required. You want the chops just covered in the gravy.
6. Cook at a slow simmer for about 3 hours – the longer and slower the better. The gravy should just be sending up a bubble or two every few seconds. Check and stir regularly and if it needs a bit more liquid just add a dash of water.
7. Mix a few tablespoons of cornflour in a small bowl with about 100ml of cold water and stir to mix. Add this to the gravy mixture and heat and stir through until the gravy thickens.

Camping Pork Chops And Gravy Simmering

Serving Instructions

1. Serve with instant mashed potatoes or freshly mashed potatoes and coleslaw. A cob of corn goes well on the side.
2. Don’t forget a few bread rolls or slices of bread to soak up the gravy at the end.
3. Enjoy!

Pork Chop Gravy Being Thickened Before Serving

Conclusion

This is a bloody ripper recipe. It’s easy to do and the ingredients are cheap and easy to carry when out camping. The original idea for this recipe is from the BBQ Pit Boys. You can see more camp cooking tips and ideas in our Aussie Camp Cooking category.

When Osso Buco is cooked low and slow in a camp oven the meat becomes very tender – the marrow softens adding extra richness to this meal. Osso Buco is a cut of meat from the beef shank that has been cut into round sections. The shank is a muscle that wraps around a marrow-rich bone. This recipe has very little preparation and serving time but a long cook time. Perfect for maximising beer time around the camp fire!

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
Cooking Time: 3 to 6 Hours
Serves: 2 to 4

Osso Buco Halfway Cooked

Ingredients For Camp Oven Osso Buco

• Osso Buco – at least one piece per serving
• 1 x Packet McCormick Beef & Mushroom Ragout
• 2 x Rashers of Bacon
• 4 x Medium Carrots
• 1 x Can of Diced Tomatoes
• 1 x Medium Onion
• 200gm x Fresh Mushrooms
• Deb Instant Mashed Potato (Or Boiled Mashed potatoes If You Prefer)

Preparation

Cooking Instructions

1. Roughly chop bacon, mushrooms, onion and carrots and put them in your camp oven
2. Open can of mushrooms and tip in to camp oven and give it all a stir
3. Open packet of McCormick Beef & Mushroom Ragout and sprinkle over mixture in camp oven and stir to combine
4. Put Osso Buco pieces in to camp oven and give it all another stir to combine – make sure you get a good coating on the Osso Buco
5. Put the camp oven over your coals. We want a long slow cook so if you have a tripod and can hang the camp oven over something to elevate it off the coals then even better. Put some coals on the lid and leave it to simmer. You can use heat beads if that’s your preference.
6. Check after 20 minutes to see if you have the temperature right – it should be a slow cook with just a bubble every now and then
7. Cook for between 3 and 6 hours – the longer and slower the better. Check and stir regularly and if it needs a bit more liquid just add a dash of water

Camp Oven Osso Buco On The Coals

Serving Instructions

1. Serve on a bed of Deb Instant Mashed Potato or on your favourite mashed spud.
2. Don’t forget a few bread rolls or slices of bread to soak up the gravy at the end.
3. Enjoy!

Camp Oven Osso Buco Served And Ready To Eat