Camping shouldn't mean sacrificing delicious food! Many believe that exciting adventures and satisfying meals are mutually exclusive, especially when budgeting for a trip. But we're here to prove that's wrong. These easy cheap camping recipes are designed to be both budget-friendly and incredibly tasty, perfect for fueling your next outdoor excursion without emptying your wallet. Get ready to enjoy delicious homemade cooking under the stars!
One-Pan Campfire Sausage and Veggie Foil Packets
This recipe is a fantastic example of simple, healthy meals you can easily prepare while camping. It's quick, minimal cleanup, and customizable to your liking. These foil packets are perfect for cooking directly on the campfire grates or even embedding them in hot coals for that extra smoky flavor.
Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions:
- Prep the veggies: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the packets: Lay out the aluminum foil sheets. Divide the sausage, vegetables, diced tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper evenly among the four sheets.
- Seal the packets: Fold the foil over the ingredients to create a sealed packet, crimping the edges tightly to prevent leaks. For extra security, double-fold the edges.
- Cook over the campfire: Place the foil packets directly on the campfire grates or bury them in hot coals for a more even cooking. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Flip the packets halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the foil packets from the heat. Let them cool slightly before opening to avoid steam burns. Serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Foil Packets:
- Don't overcrowd the packets: Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking.
- Use heavy-duty foil: This prevents tearing and ensures a good seal.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your campfire. Check for doneness before serving.
Variations:
- Add potatoes: Dice potatoes and add them to the packets for extra heartiness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Add protein: Chicken or shrimp are also great additions to these foil packets.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This recipe provides a great source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy meal for your camping adventure. Enjoy the delicious food recipes and remember that homemade cooking can be simple, even in the great outdoors! These quick dinner ideas will ensure your camping trip is filled with both exciting memories and satisfying meals. Happy camping!