50+ Delicious Cast Iron Dutch Oven Campfire Recipes for Your Next Outdoor Adventure!

Camping is a cherished tradition for many, offering a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a chance to reconnect with nature.

One of the joys of camping is the opportunity to cook over an open fire, and nothing enhances this experience quite like a cast iron Dutch oven.

These versatile cooking vessels are perfect for preparing hearty, delicious meals that bring comfort to your outdoor adventures. In this article, we’ve gathered 25+ mouthwatering Dutch oven campfire recipes that are sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, these recipes will help you create memorable meals right by the campfire.

50+ Delicious Cast Iron Dutch Oven Campfire Recipes for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

With these 25+ recipes, you have a variety of options to suit any taste, from savory stews and casseroles to sweet treats and comforting sides.

Each recipe is designed to be simple yet flavorful, making it easier for you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals in the great outdoors.

So pack up your Dutch oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create unforgettable campfire meals that will leave everyone talking long after the last ember fades.

Campfire Beef Stew

Campfire Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for cooking over a campfire. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a savory broth, creating a delicious stew that’s both filling and flavorful.

The slow cooking process in a cast iron Dutch oven allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making this a great option for a satisfying outdoor meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Return the beef to the Dutch oven and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
5. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Place additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
7. Let the stew cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
8. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Campfire Beef Stew is the ultimate outdoor comfort food. The cast iron Dutch oven’s even heat distribution ensures that the beef becomes tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. This stew is ideal for a chilly evening around the campfire, offering a warm and satisfying meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy the hearty flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal, even while camping.

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Dutch Oven Campfire Chili

Dutch Oven Campfire Chili is a spicy and robust dish that’s perfect for a camping trip. This recipe features ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili spices, all simmered together in a cast iron Dutch oven. The rich and hearty chili is easy to prepare and cook over a campfire, making it an excellent choice for feeding a group after a day of outdoor adventures.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
5. Place the Dutch oven on a bed of hot coals and add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain a simmer.
6. Let the chili cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the chili has thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Dutch Oven Campfire Chili is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a group meal around the campfire. The blend of spices and the richness of the beef create a hearty chili that’s sure to please everyone. Cooking it in a cast iron Dutch oven allows the flavors to develop fully, making this chili a standout option for outdoor dining.

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Campfire Apple Crisp

Campfire Apple Crisp is a delicious dessert that’s easy to make over a campfire. This recipe features tender, spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble, all cooked together in a cast iron Dutch oven. The result is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for enjoying after a day of outdoor activities.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, ½ cup flour, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Place the apple mixture in the preheated Dutch oven and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples, covering them completely.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even cooking temperature.
7. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Campfire Apple Crisp is a delightful and easy dessert that brings a touch of home-cooked comfort to your outdoor experience. The combination of sweet, spiced apples with a crisp, buttery topping creates a treat that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy this warm dessert around the campfire, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

Campfire Chicken and Rice

Campfire Chicken and Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for cooking over a campfire. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with rice, vegetables, and a savory broth, all cooked together in a cast iron Dutch oven. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and ideal for a filling outdoor meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.
5. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, frozen peas and carrots, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the Dutch oven, placing it on top of the rice mixture.
7. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
8. Cook for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Check occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Campfire Chicken and Rice is a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and mixed vegetables creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for outdoor dining. This recipe is great for feeding a crowd and makes clean-up a breeze with its one-pot preparation. Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal after a day of camping adventures.

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Dutch Oven Campfire Cornbread

Dutch Oven Campfire Cornbread is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for cooking over a campfire. This cornbread is rich and buttery with a slightly sweet flavor, and it bakes to a golden brown perfection in a cast iron Dutch oven. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any campfire meal and is sure to be a hit with your camping crew.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed.
5. Grease the inside of the preheated Dutch oven with a bit of butter or oil.
6. Pour the cornbread batter into the Dutch oven and smooth the top.
7. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even cooking temperature.
8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Dutch Oven Campfire Cornbread is a fantastic addition to any campfire meal. Its buttery, slightly sweet flavor and golden-brown crust make it a comforting side dish that pairs well with stews, chili, and other outdoor favorites. This easy-to-make cornbread will quickly become a campfire classic and a crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor gathering.

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Campfire Sausage and Peppers

Campfire Sausage and Peppers is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines hearty sausages with sweet bell peppers and onions. Cooked together in a cast iron Dutch oven over the campfire, this recipe brings out the rich flavors of the sausages and vegetables. It’s a perfect meal for outdoor cooking, offering a satisfying and delicious option that’s both simple and tasty.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the sausage pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the sausage and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is heated through.
5. Return the browned sausage to the Dutch oven and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
7. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the sausages are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Campfire Sausage and Peppers is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. The combination of savory sausage and sweet bell peppers creates a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe is ideal for feeding a group and makes for a delicious and comforting campfire dinner. Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your next outdoor adventure.

Campfire Chili Mac

Campfire Chili Mac is a comforting and filling one-pot meal that combines the heartiness of chili with the classic taste of macaroni and cheese. Cooked in a cast iron Dutch oven over a campfire, this recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a group after a day of outdoor activities.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
5. Place the Dutch oven on a bed of hot coals and add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain a simmer.
6. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the elbow macaroni and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Campfire Chili Mac is a deliciously hearty dish that combines two classic comfort foods into one satisfying meal. The rich chili flavor and creamy cheese sauce make this a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a camping trip. With its easy preparation and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for outdoor dining.

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Dutch Oven Campfire Beef Stroganoff

Dutch Oven Campfire Beef Stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish that brings the classic flavors of beef stroganoff to the great outdoors. Tender beef strips are cooked with onions and mushrooms in a creamy sauce made with sour cream and beef broth. Served over noodles or rice, this comforting meal is perfect for enjoying around the campfire after a day of adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles or cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and the onion is translucent.
4. Return the beef to the Dutch oven and stir in the beef broth and dried thyme.
5. Bring to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
6. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
7. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the Dutch oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles or cooked rice.

Dutch Oven Campfire Beef Stroganoff offers a creamy and comforting meal that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. The combination of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce creates a delicious dish that’s ideal for a satisfying campfire dinner. This recipe brings a touch of home-cooked comfort to your camping experience and is sure to be a hit with your group.

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Campfire Jambalaya

Campfire Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines rice with a mix of savory meats and vegetables. This classic Creole recipe is cooked in a cast iron Dutch oven over the campfire, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. With its blend of spices, sausage, chicken, and shrimp, this jambalaya is a perfect choice for a delicious and satisfying campfire meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
• 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the diced chicken and sausage, cooking until the chicken is browned and the sausage is slightly crispy. Remove the meat and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, paprika, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
5. Return the chicken and sausage to the Dutch oven and stir to combine.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
7. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Stir in the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Campfire Jambalaya is a flavorful and filling dish that brings the taste of Creole cooking to your outdoor adventure. The combination of spicy sausage, tender chicken, and succulent shrimp, along with perfectly cooked rice, makes this a standout meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a hearty campfire feast.

Campfire Pork and Apples

Campfire Pork and Apples is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender pork with sweet apples and savory spices. Cooked in a cast iron Dutch oven over the campfire, this recipe delivers a deliciously comforting meal with a perfect balance of flavors. The apples add a natural sweetness that complements the savory pork, making it a great choice for a satisfying outdoor dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs pork shoulder or pork chops, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Return the pork to the Dutch oven and stir in the sliced apples, apple cider, brown sugar, sage, and thyme.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
6. Cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender and the apples are soft.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Campfire Pork and Apples offers a sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a comforting outdoor meal. The tender pork and juicy apples cook together beautifully in the Dutch oven, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious, home-style meal while camping, making it a memorable part of your outdoor adventure.

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Campfire Stuffed Peppers

Campfire Stuffed Peppers are a tasty and convenient meal that’s easy to prepare in a cast iron Dutch oven. This recipe features bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, all cooked together in a savory tomato sauce. It’s a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a campfire feast and can be easily customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a skillet or pan, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until well combined.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in tightly.
7. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the Dutch oven. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each pepper.
8. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even temperature.
9. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Campfire Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and convenient meal that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese inside tender bell peppers makes for a satisfying and nutritious dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also allows for easy clean-up, making it an excellent choice for your next camping trip.

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Campfire Lasagna

Campfire Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of lasagna to the great outdoors. This recipe layers rich meat sauce with creamy cheese and noodles, all cooked together in a cast iron Dutch oven. It’s a filling and delicious meal that’s perfect for feeding a group after a day of camping.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 9 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over the campfire coals.
2. In the Dutch oven, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. To assemble the lasagna, spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, breaking them as needed to fit.
7. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then add another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it on a bed of hot coals. Add additional coals on top of the lid to maintain an even cooking temperature.
9. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Campfire Lasagna is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings a touch of home-cooked comfort to your outdoor adventures. The combination of layers of meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles creates a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for a campfire feast and will quickly become a favorite among your camping crew.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!