Easy Campfire Chili: A Hearty Meal for Your Next Camping Trip

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm, hearty meal after a day of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping in an RV or staying in a tent, campfire chili is a simple and delicious option for a cozy evening at the campground. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup water, as needed
• Shredded cheese, sour cream and green onions for toppings

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over your campfire or camp stove. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease.

2. Add the Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Add a little water if needed to reach your preferred consistency.

3. Let It Simmer

Cover the pot and let the chili simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep the heat low and steady to allow the flavors to blend together.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have come together, serve it warm in bowls. Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream or green onions. Pair it with crackers, cornbread or toasted bread for a filling campfire meal.

Tips for Making Campfire Chili

• Prep Ahead: Dice your onions and measure out your seasonings at home to save time at the campground.
• Use a Dutch Oven: A cast-iron Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly and works well over a campfire or camp stove.
• Customize Your Chili: Add bell peppers, jalapeños or extra spices to give your chili more flavor and heat.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the chili at home, refrigerate it promptly and reheat it thoroughly at the campsite for an easier meal.

The Perfect Meal for a Cozy Night at the Campground

Campfire chili is an easy way to bring everyone together after a day of exploring, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. It’s warm, filling and easy to customize for the whole family.

Whether you’re spending the weekend in your RV, enjoying a fall camping trip or simply looking for an easy outdoor meal, this recipe is a great addition to your camping menu.

Gather around the campfire, enjoy a delicious homemade meal and make memories with family and friends at Terre Haute Campground!