Planning your next campout? Whether you’re a new Scout or a seasoned patrol cook, these simple and satisfying meals will help keep your crew fueled and happy. Every recipe is easy to prepare at camp, Scout-tested, and uses gear you likely already have.
How Hard Are These Meals to Make?
These recipes are perfect for Scouts of all skill levels. Most can be made with just a campfire, propane stove, or Dutch oven. If you’re working on your Cooking merit badge or just want to step up your patrol’s menu, this list is a great place to start.
Tips for Success
- Prep at home. Chop, pre-measure, and bag ingredients to save time at camp.
- Use the buddy system. Cooking is easier (and more fun) when done as a team.
- Clean as you go. Keeping your patrol site tidy helps avoid pests and stress.
- Practice Leave No Trace. Always pack out trash and minimize food waste.
10 Scout-Approved Camping Meals
1. Walking Tacos
Crush a small bag of chips (like Doritos), then top with taco meat, cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream. No plates needed!
2. Foil Packet Dinners (Hobo Meals)
Layer ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions in foil. Seal and cook over coals. Easy cleanup and fully customizable.
3. Campfire Grilled Cheese & Soup
Cook grilled cheese on a cast iron pan and pair with canned tomato soup warmed over a stove or fire. Classic comfort.
4. Breakfast Burritos
Scramble eggs, add cooked sausage or bacon, and wrap in a tortilla with cheese. Wrap in foil and heat near the fire.
5. Dutch Oven Pizza
Layer pre-made dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings in a greased Dutch oven. Cook for ~20 minutes until golden and gooey.
6. One-Pot Pasta
Boil pasta, then mix in sauce and pre-cooked protein (like ground beef or chicken). Add cheese for extra flavor.
7. Campfire Quesadillas
Layer cheese and cooked fillings in a tortilla, fold, and grill on a pan or foil. Great for lunch or dinner.
8. Pancakes & Fruit
Use a just-add-water pancake mix and cook on a griddle. Top with fresh fruit or jam for an energizing breakfast.
9. Chili and Cornbread
Make chili in a pot or Dutch oven using canned beans, meat, and tomatoes. Bake cornbread on top or on the side.
10. Banana Boats
Slice a banana down the middle (leave peel on), stuff with chocolate and marshmallows, wrap in foil, and heat until gooey.
11. Dutch Oven Cobbler (My Personal Favorite)
Dump 1 (or 2 if cooking for a large patrol) boxes of cake mix, 1 (or 2) cans of pie filling – any fruit of your choice, and 6-10 oz of any Soda (Mountain Dew is my favorite) in a Dutch Oven. Cook on coals until delicious
Related Merit Badges
Conclusion
Mastering these meals means less stress and more fun on your next outing. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—just delicious and Scout-friendly. Start with a few of these meals, get creative, and remember: the best seasoning is a good campfire story.
