When it comes to outdoor cooking, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting dish cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. The classic camping companion is perfect for whipping up a meal around the campsite, and with its versatility and ease of use, it’s no wonder why many outdoor enthusiasts swear by it.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering Dutch oven recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic campfire fare like chili and beef stew, to sweet treats like peach cobbler and blueberry buckle, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of delicious options.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out on your outdoor adventure, these recipes are sure to become instant favorites. So grab your Dutch oven, fire up the campfire, and get ready to indulge in some serious culinary delight.
Dutch Oven Campfire Chili
Warm up by the campfire with a hearty, comforting pot of chili cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven. This recipe is perfect for camping trips or cozying up around the fire pit at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven over the campfire or stovetop to medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ground beef in the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the water; bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low; let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Camping Dutch Oven Beef Stew
This hearty beef stew is a camping classic, perfect for fueling up after a long day of hiking or exploring the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown beef stew meat in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add potatoes and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight (8-10 hours)
Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
This classic comfort food dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth come together in a Dutch oven for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour for dumplings
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add broth, thyme, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Cover Dutch oven and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix dumpling ingredients in a bowl. Drop by spoonfuls onto surface of chicken mixture.
6. Simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked and broth has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Campfire Pizza
Enjoy a delicious and gooey pizza cooked directly over the campfire with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it on the campfire grate for 10-15 minutes.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch and place it in the preheated Dutch oven.
3. Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and basil.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the toppings.
6. Place the lid on the Dutch oven and cook for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
This peach cobbler recipe is a twist on the classic dessert, using a Dutch oven to create a warm and gooey treat perfect for summer gatherings. With minimal prep and easy cooking, this cobbler is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of biscuit or cobbler mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour melted butter into the peach mixture and stir to coat.
4. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared Dutch oven.
5. Open the biscuit or cobbler mix and follow package instructions for mixing with water.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the peach mixture, spreading slightly to cover.
7. Cover the Dutch oven and cook for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Dutch Oven Cornbread
Moist and flavorful cornbread cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven – it’s the perfect accompaniment to your next outdoor adventure or cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the preheated Dutch oven and smooth out the top.
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork
Slow-cooked pulled pork, tender and juicy, with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork in the preheated Dutch oven and add the water.
5. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
8. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Dutch Oven Campfire Lasagna
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for camping trips or outdoor adventures. This Dutch oven lasagna is easy to prepare and cooks to perfection over a campfire.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over campfire coals for 10 minutes.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a separate pan, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and beaten egg. Mix well.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading half of the noodle mixture in the Dutch oven, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
8. Cover Dutch oven with lid; cook for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Breakfast Skillet
This recipe makes a delicious and satisfying breakfast skillet that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight meal. With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, you’ll be hooked on this Dutch oven breakfast skillet from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Add the sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, bell peppers, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to distribute them evenly.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dutch Oven Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of roasted chicken with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and chopped herbs.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in the preheated Dutch oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 15 minutes to keep it moist.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Sausage and Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening or outdoor adventure. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights or camping trips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Add the olive oil and cook the sausage slices until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cubed potatoes and stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Campfire Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a campfire twist! This recipe combines creamy macaroni and cheese with the cozy warmth of a Dutch oven, perfect for a chilly camping evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it over the campfire for 10-15 minutes, or until the interior reaches a temperature of 300°F (150°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In the preheated Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the milk and stir until smooth.
5. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef and Vegetable Soup
Dutch Oven Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe
A hearty and comforting soup made with tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and rich flavors, all cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven.
- 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Dutch Oven Blueberry Buckle
This recipe combines the richness of a buckle with the convenience of cooking in a Dutch oven. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this blueberry buckle is easy to make and deliciously moist.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared Dutch oven.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve with: Confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Dutch Oven Campfire Nachos
Gather around the campsite and get ready to indulge in a warm, gooey, and deliciously cheesy snack – Dutch Oven Campfire Nachos!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven over a campfire or in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in an even layer on the bottom of the Dutch oven.
3. Spread refried beans over the chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beans.
5. Add chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeño on top of the cheese.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Honey Glazed Carrots
Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich honey glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these glazed carrots are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby carrots
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, then add the carrots in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they start to brown.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
4. Pour the glaze over the carrots, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and the carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dutch Oven Cowboy Beans
A hearty, slow-cooked bean dish that’s perfect for a cowboy’s breakfast or dinner. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal supervision.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in the preheated Dutch oven, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the soaked and drained navy beans, diced tomatoes, and water.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Dutch Oven Campfire Bread
Perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings, this Dutch oven campfire bread is an easy and delicious treat that’s sure to please. With a crispy crust and soft interior, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite outdoor activities.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased Dutch oven or campfire cooking vessel.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with a lid or foil.
7. Cook for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Apple Crisp
Experience the cozy comfort of a classic apple crisp, easily prepared in your Dutch oven. This recipe yields a deliciously tender and flavorful dessert perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to the preheated Dutch oven.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dutch Oven Shrimp Boil
Experience the flavors of a traditional Lowcountry shrimp boil in the comfort of your own home with this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup smoked sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, parsley, scallions, potatoes, and sausage.
3. Add the butter and chicken broth to the bowl and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the preheated Dutch oven and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your camping cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering Dutch oven recipes! From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and savory pizzas, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, these easy-to-make dishes will transport you back to the campsite with their bold flavors and comforting aromas. So why settle for plain old trail mix when you can have campfire chili, nachos, or peach cobbler? Try one (or two, or three…) of these recipes today and take your camping experience to the next level!
