35 Easy and Delicious One-Pot Meals to Cook While Camping

There’s something magical about cooking in the great outdoors. 

The fresh air, the crackling campfire, and the simplicity of a meal shared under the stars make every bite taste better. 

But when it comes to camping, simplicity isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. 

That’s why I’m a huge fan of one-pot meals. 

They’re easy to make, require minimal cleanup, and can be incredibly delicious.

Over the years, I’ve tried and tested countless camping recipes, and one-pot meals have consistently been my go-to.

Whether I’m camping solo or with friends, these meals are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them perfect for any camping adventure. 

In this article, I’m sharing 35 of my favorite one-pot recipes that are not only easy to cook but also satisfying and delicious. 

From hearty stews to flavorful pastas, these dishes will keep you warm, well-fed, and ready to enjoy the great outdoors.

So, grab your trusty pot, and let’s dive into some mouthwatering recipes that will elevate your next camping trip!

1. Campfire Chili

Chili is a staple when it comes to camping meals, and it’s easy to see why. 

This dish is both comforting and filling, making it the perfect end to a day of outdoor activities. 

To make campfire chili, start by browning ground beef or turkey in your pot. 

Once the meat is cooked, add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers for extra flavor. 

Next, stir in canned beans, crushed tomatoes, and your favorite chili spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. 

Let everything simmer over the campfire, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. 

The best part? 

You can customize it by adding toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro. 

Serve with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to warm you up on a cool fall evening.

2. One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese

Who doesn’t love a good plate of spaghetti? 

When you’re out in the wilderness, this one-pot spaghetti Bolognese brings a taste of home to your campsite. 

Start by sautéing ground beef or Italian sausage in your pot until browned. 

Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and a pinch of Italian seasoning for a robust flavor. 

Pour in a can of diced tomatoes and some tomato paste, followed by the spaghetti. Here’s the trick: break the spaghetti in half to fit it into the pot. 

Add enough water or broth to just cover the pasta, and bring it to a simmer. 

As the pasta cooks, it will absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a rich and savory dish. 

Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you have it. 

It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect after a long day of hiking or exploring.

3. Sausage and Veggie Skillet

This dish is a versatile and delicious option that’s quick to whip up at camp. 

Start by slicing your favorite sausages—smoked, Italian or even chicken sausage works well. Brown the sausage in your pot to release its flavors. 

Then, toss in a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes. 

The vegetables will soak up the flavors from the sausage, creating a savory and colorful dish. 

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for a little kick. 

If you want to make it more filling, you can add some cooked rice or pasta to the pot. 

The result is a hearty, well-rounded meal that’s both nutritious and packed with flavor.

4. Chicken and Rice

There’s nothing like the comforting combination of chicken and rice, especially when it’s cooked in one pot over a campfire. 

Start by browning chicken thighs or breasts in a bit of oil until they’re golden on the outside. 

Remove the chicken and set it aside while you sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. 

Add rice (long-grain or basmati works well), and stir it around to toast it slightly. 

Pour in chicken broth, then nestle the chicken back into the pot. 

Cover and let it all simmer until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. 

The broth will infuse the rice with rich flavors, making every bite a delight. 

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if you have them. 

This dish is as easy as it is delicious, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your campsite.

5. Beef Stroganoff

This hearty, creamy dish is a camping favorite.

Start by sautéing strips of beef in your pot until they’re browned on all sides. 

Remove the beef and set it aside while you cook onions and mushrooms in the same pot. 

Once the vegetables are tender, stir in some flour to thicken the sauce, then add beef broth and a dollop of sour cream. 

Return the beef to the pot and let everything simmer until the sauce is rich and creamy. 

Serve over egg noodles or rice for a filling meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening in the outdoors. 

It’s comfort food at its best, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at your campsite.

6. Lentil Stew

Lentil stew is a fantastic vegetarian option that’s packed with protein and flavor. 

Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in your pot until they’re soft and fragrant.

Add in a cup of lentils (green or brown work best), followed by vegetable broth and your choice of seasonings—cumin, coriander, and bay leaves are great options. 

Let the stew simmer until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. 

You can also add greens like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra nutrition. 

This stew is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites, and it’s a healthy, warming meal that’s perfect for fall camping.

7. Shrimp Boil

A shrimp boil is a fun and festive meal that’s perfect for camping. 

All you need is one pot and a few simple ingredients. 

Start by boiling water in your pot and adding Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and a couple of lemon slices for flavor. 

Next, add small red potatoes and cook until they’re almost tender. 

Then, toss in corn on the cob (cut into smaller pieces) and cook for a few more minutes. 

Finally, add the shrimp and let everything cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. 

Drain the water, and you’re left with a delicious, one-pot feast. 

Serve with melted butter and extra lemon wedges for squeezing. 

It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to be a hit at your campsite.

8. Vegetarian Chili

This vegetarian chili is so hearty and flavorful, you won’t even miss the meat. 

Start by sautéing onions, bell peppers, and garlic in your pot. 

Add a mix of beans (black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans work well) along with diced tomatoes and a generous amount of chili powder, cumin, and paprika. 

Let the chili simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. 

For extra richness, you can add a spoonful of cocoa powder or a splash of dark beer. 

Serve with your favorite chili toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. 

It’s a comforting, warming dish that’s perfect for a cool night under the stars.

9. Dutch Oven Lasagna

Yes, you can make lasagna while camping! 

A Dutch oven makes this possible. 

Start by layering your lasagna ingredients—sauce, noodles, cheese, and your choice of fillings (ground meat, vegetables, or a mix of both)—in the Dutch oven. 

Cover and cook over the campfire, making sure to rotate the Dutch oven occasionally for even cooking. 

In about 45 minutes to an hour, you’ll have a bubbly, cheesy lasagna that’s just as good as anything you’d make at home. 

It’s a bit more effort than some other camping meals, but the end result is well worth it.

10. Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a camping trip. 

Start by sautéing andouille sausage in your pot until it’s browned. 

Remove the sausage and set it aside, then cook the chicken in the same pot until it’s browned. 

Add onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic, and sauté until the vegetables are soft. 

Stir in uncooked rice, tomatoes, and chicken broth, then return the sausage to the pot. 

Cover and let it simmer until the rice is cooked through. 

For an authentic touch, add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. 

This dish is packed with flavor and will leave everyone at your campsite satisfied.

11. Chicken Alfredo

This creamy, comforting dish is surprisingly easy to make in one pot. 

Start by cooking chicken pieces in your pot until they’re golden and cooked through. 

Remove the chicken and set it aside while you cook garlic in the same pot. 

Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta (fettuccine works best) to the pot, and bring it to a simmer. 

Let the pasta cook in the sauce until it’s tender and the sauce has thickened. 

Stir in Parmesan cheese and return the chicken to the pot. 

The result is a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner by the campfire.

12. Potato Soup

Potato soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. 

Start by cooking diced potatoes in your pot with onions, garlic, and broth until the potatoes are tender. 

Use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes, creating a thick, creamy base for the soup. 

Stir in cream or milk, and let the soup simmer until it’s heated through. 

You can add toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions for extra flavor. 

This soup is warm, filling, and perfect for a chilly fall evening.

13. Paella

Paella is a flavorful Spanish dish that’s perfect for cooking over a campfire. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in your pot. 

Add uncooked rice and stir to coat the rice in the oil. 

Pour in chicken broth, saffron, and smoked paprika, then add your choice of protein—chicken, shrimp, or sausage work well. 

Cover the pot and let everything simmer until the rice is cooked through and the flavors are well combined. 

For an authentic touch, add some peas and chopped parsley before serving. 

This dish is packed with flavor and will impress everyone at your campsite.

14. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that’s easy to make in one pot. 

Start by cooking pasta in your pot until it’s al dente. 

Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the cheese sauce. 

In the same pot, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux. 

Gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. 

Stir in shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth, then return the pasta to the pot. 

The result is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a cozy night by the campfire. 

You can also add extras like cooked bacon or diced tomatoes for added flavor.

15. Beef Stew

Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food, especially when you’re camping. 

Start by browning beef chunks in your pot until they’re seared on all sides. 

Remove the beef and set it aside while you cook onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. 

Add potatoes, beef broth, and your choice of seasonings (thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are great options). 

Return the beef to the pot and let everything simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. 

Serve with crusty bread for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly fall evening.

16. Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a flavorful vegetarian dish that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in your pot until they’re soft and fragrant. 

Add canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and your choice of curry paste or powder. 

Let the curry simmer until it’s thick and flavorful, then stir in spinach or kale for added nutrition. 

Serve with rice or naan bread for a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a camping trip.

17. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, and it’s perfect for camping. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in your pot until they’re soft. 

Add canned tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes, and let the sauce simmer until it’s thick and flavorful. 

Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. 

Cover the pot and let the eggs cook until they’re set. 

Serve with crusty bread for a hearty breakfast or dinner that’s sure to impress.

18. Gumbo

Gumbo is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s perfect for a camping trip. 

Start by making a roux in your pot by cooking flour and oil until it’s dark brown and nutty. 

Add onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft. 

Stir in sausage, chicken, and your choice of seafood, then add chicken broth and let everything simmer until the flavors are well combined. 

For an authentic touch, add okra and a few dashes of hot sauce.

Serve with rice for a delicious, filling meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

19. Chicken Fajitas

Fajitas are a fun and easy meal that’s perfect for camping. 

Start by marinating chicken strips in lime juice, garlic, and your choice of spices (cumin, chili powder, and paprika work well). 

Cook the chicken in your pot until it’s browned and cooked through, then remove it and set it aside.

In the same pot, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until they’re soft. 

Return the chicken to the pot and stir everything together. 

Serve with tortillas, salsa, and your favorite toppings for a delicious, customizable meal that’s sure to be a hit.

20. Fish Chowder

Fish chowder is a rich, creamy dish that’s perfect for a camping trip by the water. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in your pot until they’re soft.

Add diced potatoes and fish broth, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender. 

Stir in chunks of fish (salmon, cod, or haddock work well) and let the fish cook in the broth. 

Finish with cream or milk, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. 

Serve with crusty bread for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

21. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for camping. 

Start by heating oil in your pot and adding your choice of vegetables—bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas work well. 

Stir-fry the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp, then add your choice of protein (tofu, chicken, or beef). 

Stir in a simple sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and let everything cook together until the flavors are well combined. 

Serve with rice or noodles for a delicious, healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner at the campsite.

22. Risotto

Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make in one pot. 

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your pot until they’re soft. 

Add Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains in the oil. 

Gradually add broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and the risotto is creamy. 

Stir in your choice of additions—mushrooms, peas, or roasted vegetables work well. 

Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. 

This dish is rich and satisfying, and it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of home while camping.

23. Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. 

Start by browning ground beef or lamb in your pot until it’s cooked through. 

Remove the meat and set it aside while you cook onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. 

Stir in frozen peas and corn, then return the meat to the pot. 

Top with mashed potatoes and bake over the campfire until the potatoes are golden and crispy. 

This dish is filling and flavorful, and it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of home while camping.

24. Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special camping trip. 

Start by browning beef chunks in your pot until they’re seared on all sides. 

Remove the beef and set it aside while you cook onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. 

Add red wine, beef broth, and your choice of seasonings (thyme, bay leaves, and rosemary work well), then return the beef to the pot. 

Let everything simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. 

Serve with crusty bread for a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

25. Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for camping. 

Start by cooking diced chicken in your pot until it’s browned and cooked through.

Remove the chicken and set it aside while you cook onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. 

Stir in frozen peas and corn, then return the chicken to the pot. 

Top with pie crust or biscuit dough, and bake over the campfire until the crust is golden and crispy. 

This dish is filling and flavorful, and it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of home while camping.

26. Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a spring or summer camping trip. 

Start by cooking pasta in your pot until it’s al dente. 

Drain the pasta and set it aside while you sauté onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes work well) in the same pot.

Stir in the pasta, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. 

This dish is light, fresh, and perfect for a quick dinner at the campsite.

27. Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. 

Start by cooking diced chicken in your pot until it’s browned and cooked through. 

Remove the chicken and set it aside while you cook onions, garlic, and carrots in the same pot. Stir in chicken broth and return the chicken to the pot. 

Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top of the stew, cover the pot, and let everything cook until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through. 

This dish is filling and flavorful, and it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of home while camping.

28. Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a flavorful vegetable dish that’s perfect for a summer camping trip. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in your pot until they’re soft. 

Add diced eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes, and let everything simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. 

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. 

This dish is light, fresh, and perfect for a quick dinner at the campsite.

29. Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s perfect for a camping trip. 

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in your pot until they’re soft and fragrant. Add diced chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. 

Stir in your choice of curry paste or powder, then add coconut milk and let everything simmer until the flavors are well combined. 

Serve with rice or naan bread for a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

30. Pasta Carbonara

Pasta carbonara is a rich, creamy dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner at the campsite. 

Start by cooking pasta in your pot until it’s al dente. 

Drain the pasta and set it aside while you cook diced bacon or pancetta in the same pot until it’s crispy. 

Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, then return the pasta to the pot. 

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese, then stir the mixture into the pasta. 

The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. 

This dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy night by the campfire.

31. Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

A quinoa and black bean bowl is a nutritious, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick campsite dinner. 

Start by cooking quinoa in a vegetable broth in your pot until it’s tender. 

Stir in canned black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. 

Let the mixture simmer until the flavors are well combined. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. 

This dish is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients to keep you energized for your camping adventures.

32. Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to make over a campfire. 

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in your pot until they’re soft. 

Add Arborio rice and cook until the grains are lightly toasted. 

Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and the risotto is creamy. 

Stir in sautéed mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for a rich, earthy flavor. 

This dish is elegant yet simple, making it a great option for a cozy dinner at the campsite.

33. Mutton Biryani

Mutton Biryani is a fragrant, flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a camping feast. 

Start by marinating mutton with yogurt, spices like garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder, and let it soak up the flavors. 

In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden brown, then add the marinated mutton and cook until tender.

Layer parboiled basmati rice over the mutton, and sprinkle with saffron-infused milk, fried onions, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. 

Cover and cook on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. 

The result is a rich, aromatic dish that’s sure to be the highlight of your camping trip.

34. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a healthy, satisfying meal that’s easy to make in one pot. 

Start by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds. 

In your pot, cook ground beef or turkey with onions, garlic, and your choice of seasonings until the meat is browned. 

Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese, then stuff the mixture into the bell peppers. 

Place the peppers back in the pot, add a little water or broth to the bottom, and cover with a lid. 

Let the peppers cook until they’re tender and the filling is heated through. 

This dish is colorful, nutritious, and perfect for a simple yet impressive campsite meal.

35. Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a quick, flavorful meal that’s easy to whip up over a campfire. 

Begin by sautéing sliced chicken breast in your pot with a little oil until it’s cooked through. 

Add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, and stir-fry until they’re tender-crisp. 

Pour in a simple stir-fry sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. 

Serve this stir-fry over instant rice or noodles for a satisfying, healthy meal that’s ready in minutes.

Conclusion

Camping meals don’t have to be bland or boring. 

With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy a variety of delicious, one-pot meals that are easy to make and perfect for the great outdoors. 

From hearty stews to flavorful curries, these recipes are designed to satisfy your hunger and warm you up after a long day of exploring. 

Plus, with only one pot to clean, you’ll have more time to relax by the campfire and enjoy the beauty of nature.

So next time you’re planning a camping trip, try out a few of these recipes and elevate your outdoor dining experience. 

And don’t forget to share your favorite camping meals with your friends or pin this article for later. 

Happy camping and bon appétit!