Campfire Food – Easy & Delicious Recipes for Outdoor Cooking
There’s nothing more comforting than enjoying campfire food under the stars. From hearty foil packet meals to smoky grilled favorites, campfire cooking is more than just food—it’s an experience. The crackling fire, the fresh outdoor air, and the aroma of sizzling meals make every bite extra special.
Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, having a backyard firepit night, or preparing for a family cookout, this easy campfire recipe will give you a warm, filling, and flavorful meal. Today, we’re making Campfire Foil Packets with Sausage, Potatoes, and Veggies—a classic one-pack dinner that’s simple, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the Fire – Build a campfire and let the flames burn down until you have glowing hot coals. Alternatively, preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Prep the Foil Packets – Tear 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches each). Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Assemble Ingredients – Divide sausage, potatoes, peppers, zucchini, and onion evenly among the foil sheets.
- Season & Oil – Drizzle each packet with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Seal the Packets – Fold the foil tightly, sealing all edges to keep steam inside.
- Cook Over Campfire – Place packets on hot coals (or grill) and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check & Serve – Carefully open a packet (watch out for steam!) and check that potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with cheese and parsley before serving.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 packets (1 per person)
Tips & Variations
- Protein Swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or ground beef instead of sausage.
- Veggie Options: Add mushrooms, corn, or broccoli for more variety.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Top with mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for melty goodness.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, Cajun seasoning, or hot sauce.
- Breakfast Twist: Swap sausage for bacon and add scrambled eggs for a hearty morning campfire meal.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Use a light spray of cooking oil instead of olive oil.
- Low-Carb / Keto: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or broccoli.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure sausage is certified gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip sausage and add chickpeas or plant-based sausage.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This campfire food recipe is best enjoyed straight from the foil packet for a rustic outdoor vibe. Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even roasted marshmallows for dessert. It’s hearty, flavorful, and requires little cleanup—perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why foil packet meals are a campfire favorite. Quick, easy, and customizable, they’re the perfect outdoor comfort food.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I prepare campfire food ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the foil packets at home, store them in a cooler, and cook them when ready.
Q2: How do I prevent food from burning in foil packets?
Make sure to double-layer the foil, keep packets away from direct flames, and place them on hot coals instead.
Q3: Can I cook this recipe without a campfire?
Absolutely! These foil packets can be cooked on a grill or baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Q4: What’s the best sausage to use?
Smoked sausage or kielbasa works best, but chicken or turkey sausage is a lighter option.
Q5: Can I make dessert campfire food in foil packets?
Yes! Try foil packet s’mores, baked apples, or cinnamon sugar bananas for a sweet campfire treat.
