Winter camping at Zion River Resort offers a unique and cozy experience. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of Zion National Park, nothing beats gathering around a crackling campfire and cooking delicious meals to keep warm after a day of exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or it’s your first camping trip, easy-to-make campfire recipes are essential. In this blog, we’ll share some comforting, winter-friendly campfire recipes that will make your stay at Ferber Resorts even more memorable.
1. Dutch Oven Breakfast Hash
A hearty breakfast is a must for fueling up before a long day of hiking or exploring Zion. Dutch oven breakfast hash is a perfect winter recipe that’s both filling and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 6 potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 6 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or oil for cooking
– Cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your campfire coals and place the Dutch oven over the hot coals.
2. Melt some butter or oil and sauté the onions and bell pepper until soft.
3. Add the potatoes and cook until they start to crisp, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
4. Stir in the sausage and cook until everything is heated through.
5. Create small wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and cook until the eggs are done to your liking.
7. Top with cheese and serve. This recipe is perfect for a cold morning by the fire, filling you up before the day’s adventures.
2. Campfire Foil Pack Dinners
Foil packs are easy, versatile, and fun to make. You can fill them with anything you like, and they cook beautifully over campfire coals. Here’s a simple recipe that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef or chicken
– 4 potatoes, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay out a large piece of foil and grease it with butter.
2. Place a portion of meat and vegetables in the center of the foil.
3. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Add a pat of butter on top of the ingredients.
5. Wrap the foil tightly, making sure there are no gaps.
6. Place the foil packs on the hot coals and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
7. Carefully open the foil and enjoy your warm, hearty meal by the campfire.
These foil packs are easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different veggies or meats. You can even throw in some beans or instant rice to make the meal even more filling.
3. Classic Hot Dogs on a Stick
No camping trip is complete without hot dogs over an open fire. It’s a fun, quick, and easy meal that kids and adults both enjoy. Plus, you don’t need much prep!
Ingredients:
– Hot dogs
– Skewers or sticks
– Buns
– Condiments like ketchup, mustard, and relish
Instructions:
1. Stick your hot dogs on skewers or long sticks.
2. Hold them over the campfire and slowly rotate until they’re cooked to your liking.
3. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
For an extra treat, wrap the hot dogs in crescent roll dough or bread dough before cooking. This adds a layer of soft, crispy breading, turning a simple hot dog into a warm and comforting meal.
4. Campfire Chili
Chili is a winter camping staple. It’s warm, hearty, and full of flavor. The best part? You can make it in a Dutch oven or a large cast iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cans of beans (your choice)
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 packet of chili seasoning
– Cheese and sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat your Dutch oven over the campfire coals and brown the meat.
2. Add the onions and cook until soft.
3. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning.
4. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Serve with cheese and sour cream on top.
This campfire chili is perfect for feeding a crowd and is guaranteed to keep you warm throughout the evening.
5. S’mores – The Ultimate Campfire Dessert
Of course, no campfire is complete without s’mores. This timeless treat is always a hit, whether you’re enjoying it after dinner or as a snack while watching the stars.
Ingredients:
– Marshmallows
– Graham crackers
– Chocolate bars
Instructions:
1. Stick a marshmallow on a skewer or stick.
2. Hold it over the campfire, turning it slowly until it’s golden and crispy on the outside.
3. Place the roasted marshmallow between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate.
4. Press the crackers together, and let the chocolate melt slightly before eating.
For a fun twist, try adding peanut butter or caramel sauce to your s’mores for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Grilled Steak and Veggies
If you’re looking to elevate your winter camping meals, grilled steaks with veggies are a great option. It’s simple but tastes amazing when cooked over an open fire.
Ingredients:
– 2 steaks (ribeye or sirloin work great)
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– Olive oil
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
– Skewers for the veggies
Instructions:
1. Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Toss the vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steaks on a campfire grill over hot coals, cooking to your desired doneness.
4. Thread the veggies onto skewers and grill alongside the steaks until they’re tender and slightly charred.
This delicious meal is great for impressing your fellow campers and is a perfect way to cap off a long day of exploring the great outdoors.
7. Campfire Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Who doesn’t love a grilled cheese sandwich, especially when you’re out camping? These sandwiches are easy to make and taste amazing when cooked over a campfire.
Ingredients:
– Bread
– Butter
– Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– Optional: Pickles or ham for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Butter the outside of two slices of bread.
2. Place cheese (and any other fillings) between the slices.
3. Place the sandwich on a cast iron skillet or directly on a campfire grill.
4. Cook over hot coals, flipping until both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
This simple but comforting dish is perfect for a quick lunch or even dinner.
Conclusion: Warm Up with These Campfire Recipes
Cooking over a campfire during your winter camping trip at Zion River Resort is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy the great outdoors. With these campfire recipes, you’ll be well-prepared to make delicious meals that keep you warm and satisfied. From hearty Dutch oven dishes to classic s’mores, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, next time you head out for winter camping, try these ideas and make your campfire meals the highlight of your trip!
