Are you dreaming of campfire stories and breathtaking sunsets, but dreading the endless hours spent prepping and cooking meals during your camping trip? Then get ready to ditch the tedious campfire cooking and embrace the magic of slow cooking under the stars! This post is dedicated to delicious and easy slow cooker camping recipes that will leave you with more time to enjoy nature and less time slaving over a hot stove – or a hot campfire. These recipes are perfect for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, ideal whether you are a seasoned camper or a first-timer.
The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chili
This hearty chili is a camping classic, easily adaptable to your favorite ingredients and perfect for feeding a crowd around the campfire. It's one of the best recipes for a satisfying and healthy meal that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the onion and garlic and cook on low for 30 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For a vegetarian chili, substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of lentils or 2 cups of chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or beef broth for a deeper flavor.
- If you’re making this ahead of time, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in a cooler. Reheat gently on low before serving.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders
This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for a casual camping feast. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender, juicy pulled pork ready to be piled high on slider buns. These easy recipes are great for homemade cooking with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 3 lb pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
Instructions:
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour over the pork shoulder.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded.
- Shred the pork with two forks. Mix some of the cooking liquid back into the shredded pork to keep it moist.
- Serve on slider buns with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – Chili):
Calories: Around 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Enjoy your camping trip and the delicious, effortless meals! Remember to always practice safe food handling techniques when camping. Happy cooking!