23 Easy Camping Meals for a Crowd: Simplify Your Trip!

Feeding a hungry crowd in the great outdoors? No problem! These 25 camping meals for a crowd make it easy to keep everyone happy and full, with recipes that pack big flavors into big servings—perfect for those unforgettable group camping trips!

BrianBioAvatar
Written by: | Reviewed by: Kieran James Cunningham
Last Update:

Sharing is caring!

With a hungry crew to feed, you’ll want to make sure your camping meals are both delicious and satisfying. From classic favorites to creative twists, these 23 crowd-pleasing recipes will guarantee that your campsite dining experience is a memorable one.

So, are you ready to elevate your camping menu and impress your fellow campers with these mouthwatering dishes?

camping meals for a crowd easy and delicious ideas

23 Camping Meals for Large Groups

From make ahead camping breakfasts to easy to make one-pot stews, we’ve drawn on our camping experience to draw up this list of 23 easy camping recipes.

Dutch Oven Cowboy Stew

1. Cowboy Stew

The sizzling campfire Dutch oven begs for a sturdy cowboy stew, a comforting marriage of sautéed chunks of beef commingling with aromatic veggies, beans, and a flavor-packed broth.

This heart-of-gold one-pot wonder perfectly captures the rugged spirit of outdoor cooking-seamlessly serving as a segue from a trail-side supper into a soul-warming repast in front of the crackling flames.

Savored, bite by bite, layers unfold in a dance of rustic complexity, with each mouthful an ode to the art of camping cuisine.

Peachy Nutty Pancakes

2. Peachy Nutty Pancakes

Peachy Nutty Pancakes beckon with a harmonious blend of succulent peaches and crunchy nuts, creating a tantalizing symphony of flavors that dances upon the palate.

Crafted over an open fire, these golden discs of delight are an idyllic breakfast treat, their aroma wafting through the crisp morning air.

The peaches, caramelized to perfection, infuse each bite with a burst of sweetness, complemented by the satisfying crunch of the nutty morsels, ensuring a truly indulgent and nourishing start to an adventurous day in the great outdoors.

Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

3. Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

Savor the robust flavors of land and sea with Shrimp Boil Foil Packets, an ingenious fusion of shrimp, andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and red-skinned potatoes, enveloped in a fragrant melody of Old Bay seasoning and melted butter.

This all-encompassing, effortless meal encapsulates the quintessence of al fresco dining, effortlessly prepared by sealing the sumptuous medley within foil parcels and surrendering them to the gentle embrace of a campfire or grill, emerging as a succulent delight that harmoniously blends the richness of the sea with the heartiness of the land.

Campfire Chili Cheese Fries

4. Chili Cheese Fries

Savor the epitome of campfire cuisine with Chili Cheese Fries, a harmonious blend of crisp golden fries smothered in a richly spiced chili con carne and a luscious layer of melted cheese.

This indulgent dish, ideal for hearty communal feasts around the fire, is effortlessly assembled by layering piping hot fries with a robustly flavored chili simmered to perfection, then crowned with a generous helping of gooey cheese, allowing the flavors to meld into a delightfully gooey and irresistibly savory treat.

Mountain Man Breakfast

5. Mountain Man Breakfast

The Mountain Man Breakfast is a robust and satisfying meal, perfect for fueling up before a day of outdoor adventures. It’s a one-skillet wonder featuring a delectable medley of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, diced potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, all sizzled together over an open fire.

This camping classic is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites, with its rich flavors and ample portions.

Cast Iron Skillet Breakfast Nachos

6. Campfire Nachos

Campfire Nachos beckon with a symphony of flavors, where crispy tortilla chips mingle with an indulgent blend of melted cheese, savory proteins, fresh vegetables, and zesty salsas – a veritable fiesta on a plate.

As the perfect shareable snack or a heartwarming main course, these nachos come to life over the dancing flames, their aromas wafting through the crackle of the fire, enticing every soul within the campsite’s vicinity.

Customizable to cater to diverse palates, Camping Nachos offer a delightfully interactive culinary experience that epitomizes the joys of outdoor cooking.

Bacon Basil Tomato Ciabatta Sandwich

7. Bacon Basil Tomato Ciabatta Sandwich

The Bacon Basil Tomato Ciabatta Sandwich is a scrumptious and nutritious offering, flawlessly suited for an alfresco culinary escapade. Its amalgamation of crisp bacon morsels, verdant basil foliage, ruby-hued tomato slices, and a yielding ciabatta foundation coalesce to yield a handheld masterpiece that tantalizes the senses.

Effortlessly assembled by layering the constituents upon the bread in a harmonious symphony, this handheld delight is an exemplary choice for a rejuvenating midday repast or an exquisite prelude to an evening of fireside camaraderie under the starry canopy.

Dutch Oven Chili Mac

8. Dutch Oven Chili Mac

Dutch Oven Chili Mac epitomizes a satisfying, crowd-pleasing one-pot wonder, amalgamating the zestiness of chili with the comforting allure of macaroni, slow-simmered to perfection over the dancing flames of a fire.

Ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a symphony of chili seasonings converge, their flavors melding into a harmonious medley, before the macaroni joins the fray, cooking to a tender bliss.

This rustic culinary jewel promises to satiate even the most ravenous of appetites after an adventurous day in nature’s embrace.

Chicken Parmesan Wrap

9. Chicken Parmesan Wrap

A Chicken Parmesan Wrap is a handheld, portable delicacy that encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine in a convenient tortilla blanket.

Crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese meld together, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

This savory wrap is an ideal choice for a substantial lunch or dinner on camping excursions, as it can be prepared in advance and assembled on-site with minimal effort, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful meal in the great outdoors.

White Chili

10. White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a soulful and nourishing medley of tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, aromatic spices, and a velvety broth that tantalizes the taste buds.

Ideal for a satisfying camping dinner, this one-pot wonder effortlessly melds its harmonious flavors through a gentle simmer, ensuring a comforting and deeply satisfying culinary experience.

The methodical layering of ingredients, each meticulously selected and combined, results in a captivating depth of flavor that lingers deliciously on the palate, leaving an indelible impression of culinary artistry in every spoonful.

Beef, Broccoli & Carrot Stir Fry

11. Beef, Broccoli & Carrot Stir Fry

Tantalize your taste buds with a medley of succulent beef morsels, vibrant broccoli florets, and crisp carrot slices, harmoniously stir-fried in a skillet to perfection.

This mouthwatering dish offers a well-balanced blend of protein and vegetables, making it an ideal choice for a filling and nourishing camping meal.

This easy meal is effortlessly whipped up over an open flame or portable stove, this stir fry epitomizes the convenience and flavor sought after by outdoor enthusiasts, providing a delectable respite from the rigors of the trail.

Walking Tacos

12. Walking Tacos

Walking tacos offer an ingenious take on the beloved taco, ingeniously packaged in a single-serve bag of crisp tortilla chips. The filling consists of seasoned ground beef, fresh diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, tangy sour cream, and zesty shredded cheese, all artfully layered atop the crunchy chip base.

This handheld delight is a marvelous choice for casual outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or picnics, as its portable and mess-free nature allows for unencumbered enjoyment amidst nature’s splendor.

Assembling these miniature taco marvels is a delightfully interactive experience, inviting each diner to curate their preferred medley of flavors and textures.

Cajun Chicken Foil Packets

13. Cajun Chicken Foil Packets

Cajun Chicken Foil Packets offer a scrumptious and hassle-free camping entrée, featuring juicy chicken breasts imbued with a piquant blend of Cajun spices and aromatics.

This flavorsome one-packet meal, ideal for lunch or dinner, is effortlessly assembled by encasing the seasoned chicken alongside vibrant veggies in a tightly sealed foil parcel, which concentrates the savory juices during cooking over the fire’s glowing embers.

The amalgamation of zesty Cajun notes, succulent chicken, and tender-crisp vegetables culminates in a delectable and satisfying outdoor dining experience.

Cinnamon Roll-ups

14. Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls

Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls, an ambrosial confection crafted from a pillowy dough, suffused with cinnamon’s redolent essence, and anointed with a velvety cream cheese glaze, beckon the senses with their alluring aroma.

Ideal for a decadent breakfast or an indulgent dessert, these cinnamon-laced swirls are meticulously baked within the capacious confines of a Dutch oven, their spiraling layers ascending to golden perfection amidst the embers’ gentle caress.

Campfire Pizza Sandwiches

15. Pizza Sandwiches

Crafted with layers of tantalizing marinara, gooey melted cheese, and your desired toppings ensconced between buttery bread slices, these Pizza Sandwiches are an epicurean delight. Toasted to crispy perfection over dancing flames, they epitomize the sublime fusion of convenience and indulgence, rendering them an unparalleled camping fare for satiating hunger after an adventure-filled day amidst nature’s splendor.

The amalgamation of flavors in these sandwiches elevates outdoor cooking to new gastronomic heights, enveloping your senses in a delectable embrace.

Hawaiian BBQ Pork Walking Tacos

16. Hawaiian BBQ Pork Walking Tacos

Hawaiian BBQ Pork Walking Tacos are a delectable fusion of island flavors and portable convenience, perfectly suited for camping escapades.

Tender, slow-cooked pork is infused with the tantalizing sweetness of Hawaiian BBQ sauce, shredded, and nestled into individual bags of crunchy chips, accompanied by a symphony of toppings like juicy pineapple chunks, melted cheese, and cool sour cream.

This delightful medley celebrates the art of effortless, handheld camping cuisine, offering a taste of paradise in every bite.

BBQ Bacon Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

17. BBQ Bacon Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Bacon Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a delectable revelation, an amalgamation of succulent chicken bathed in zesty barbecue sauce, interspersed with crispy bacon morsels, all nestled between pillowy bread buns.

This delicious, handheld fare epitomizes the quintessential camping repast, effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker, allowing ample leisure time amidst the great outdoors.

The harmonious interplay of flavors and textures coalesces into an unforgettable al fresco dining experience, sure to tantalize even the most discerning of palates.

Grilled Shrimp

18. Grilled Shrimp

Smoky, succulent grilled shrimp skewers marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, herbs, and lemon juice are an irresistible camping treat. Effortlessly assembled by threading plump shrimp alongside vibrant vegetables, these robust yet refreshing skewers are an ideal companion for an alfresco dinner under the stars.

Embrace the simplicity of open-flame grilling that infuses each morsel with a delightfully charred essence, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you to coastal paradises with every savory bite.

Campfire Dutch Oven Cornbread Chili

19. Dutch Oven Cornbread Chili

A delectable medley of savory chili simmered to perfection in a seasoned Dutch oven, crowned with a sumptuous cornbread topping infused with vibrant flavors that tantalize the senses.

Immerse yourself in an alfresco culinary escapade, where the smoky aroma of the fire intertwines harmoniously with the tantalizing aromas wafting from your Dutch oven.

Ideal for satisfying outdoor feasts, this camping delicacy promises to satiate cravings and ignite a sense of adventure within every bite.

Hot Italian Sausage Soup

20. Hot Italian Sausage Soup

Submerge into a bold culinary escapade with the Hot Italian Sausage Soup, a piquant concoction that harmonizes spicy Italian sausage with an orchestra of garlic, oregano, and fiery red pepper flakes, simmered to perfection in a soul-warming, aromatic broth.

Primed for outdoor feasting, this rustic dish melds effortlessly with the preparation convenience of pre-chopped ingredients and the simple joy of camp cooking, inviting you to savor its robust flavors beneath the starry wilderness skies.

Foil Packet Cajun Shrimp Boil

21. Foil Packet Cajun Shrimp Boil

A culinary adventure awaits with the quick and easy Foil Packet Cajun Shrimp Boil, a delightful fusion of succulent shrimp, vibrant corn on the cob, tender baby potatoes, and savory sausage, all enveloped in a zestful Cajun spice medley.

Ideal for gatherings under the starry skies, this one-pot sensation is effortlessly prepared by sealing the ingredients in foil packets, allowing them to mingle and infuse with robust flavors over the flickering flames.

Unveiling a tantalizingly aromatic and flavorful feast, this dish promises to captivate taste buds and ignite a sense of culinary wanderlust amidst the great outdoors.

Big Mac Sloppy Joes

22. Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Savory ground beef simmered in a tantalizing blend of seasonings evocative of the iconic Big Mac, nestled between toasted brioche buns with melted cheese and tangy sauce, Big Mac Sloppy Joes offer a delectable fusion of nostalgic flavors and comforting sustenance.

This hearty, one-pot camping fare is effortlessly assembled by sautéing the beef and uniting it with the zesty sauce. It proves an ideal option for satiating a ravenous crowd amidst the great outdoors.

Garlic Sausage & Asparagus Foil Packets

23. Garlic Sausage & Asparagus Foil Packets

Garlic Sausage & Asparagus Foil Packets beckon the intrepid camper with the savory aroma of sizzling garlic sausage mingling harmoniously alongside crisp asparagus spears, caramelized onions, and a tantalizing medley of seasonings.

A delightfully uncomplicated yet immensely satisfying entrée, these foil packets effortlessly transform humble ingredients into a flavor-laden repast by harnessing the very flames that kindle our adventurous spirits.

Conveniently assembled beforehand or crafted on-site, this rustic fare epitomizes the inimitable joys of dining amidst nature’s splendor.

Camping Food for a Large Crowd: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Ingredients in These Recipes for Dietary Restrictions?

When dealing with dietary restrictions, ingredient swaps are key. Look for allergy alternatives and recipe modifications to accommodate your needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for substitution suggestions if you need to adjust a recipe.

How Do I Adjust Portion Sizes for Different Group Sizes?

When planning for a crowd, remember portion planning is key. Adjusting recipes for group meal prep guarantees everyone gets enough. Imagine it like a potluck puzzle—each serving size a piece to fit perfectly into the delicious feast you create together.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available?

Looking for meatless alternatives? You’re in luck! Explore plant-based options perfect for vegetarian camping and vegan-friendly meals. These crowd-pleasing dishes offer delicious choices that cater to a variety of dietary preferences.

Can These Recipes Be Prepared in Advance and Reheated at the Campsite?

You can definitely prepare meals in advance for your camping trip. Utilize meal prepping to make group cooking easier. Explore various reheating options in your camp kitchen for portable meals that will keep everyone satisfied and energized. Another option for easy camping meals is to prepare make-ahead foil packet dinners that can be cooked over the campfire or on a portable grill. These packets can contain a variety of ingredients such as chopped vegetables, seasoned meats, and even potatoes, all wrapped up and ready to be cooked when you’re out in the wilderness. By utilizing these meal prep and cooking methods, you can spend less time worrying about food and more time enjoying the great outdoors with your camping companions.

What Are Some Alternative Cooking Methods if I Don’t Have a Campfire?

If you lack an open fire, you can utilize stove cooking, grill options, Dutch ovens, portable cookers, or even solar ovens for your camping meals. These methods offer versatility and convenience for your outdoor cooking needs.

Conclusion

Get ready to impress your camping crew with these 23 crowd-pleasing meals that are sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. With options ranging from classic campfire fare like hot dogs and s’mores to more gourmet dishes like shrimp skewers and foil packet fajitas, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy camping meal ideas. Whether you’re cooking over an open flame or using a portable stove, these recipes are simple to prepare and delicious to eat, making them perfect for feeding a hungry group of outdoor enthusiasts. So, pack up your gear and get ready to enjoy some unforgettable meals in the great outdoors! If you’re short on time and need to whip up some quick camping meals, don’t worry. Many of the recipes in this collection can be prepared in a flash, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the beauty of nature and less time slaving away at the campsite kitchen. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to create delicious meals that will keep everyone satisfied and ready for their next outdoor adventure. So, pack your cooler, grab your cooking utensils, and get ready to impress with these crowd-pleasing camping meals. And with easy meal prep camping meals like make-ahead breakfast burritos and one-pan chicken and potato dinners, you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying nature. Don’t forget to pack some extra snacks and treats like trail mix and homemade granola bars for quick energy boosts throughout the day. With these tasty meal options, your camping trip is sure to be a culinary adventure that your friends and family won’t soon forget!

From breakfast to dinner, these easy-to-make recipes will have everyone asking for more.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the camp stove, and get ready to enjoy delicious meals under the stars. But you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to enjoy great food while camping. There are plenty of easy camping recipes that are simple to make and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re cooking over an open flame or using a portable grill, these recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger and enhance your outdoor experience. So pack your cooler, gather your supplies, and get ready to discover a whole new world of outdoor cooking with these easy camping recipes.

Your camping trip just got a whole lot tastier!

outdoor camping meals for a crowd

Sharing is caring!

Last update on 2025-01-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

My Open Country Store Tee Banner Ad
BrianBioAvatar

Brian has been an avid hiker and backpacker since he was a small kid, often being taken out into the wilderness on trips with his father. His dad knew everything about nature and the wilderness (or at least that's how it seemed to a ten year old Brian).

After high school, he went to university to read for both a BS and MS in Geology (primarily so he could spend his time outside rather than in a classroom). He's now hiked, camped, skied, backpacked or mapped on five continents (still need to bag Antarctica) & 30 of the US states.

Email - Portfolio

Leave a Comment