Thanksgiving Campfire Feast: Fun Recipes to Celebrate in the Great Outdoors

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and enjoy delicious food with loved ones. For those who love the outdoors, celebrating Thanksgiving while camping offers a unique twist on tradition. Whether you’re in an RV, under the stars, or huddled around a cozy campfire, you can still indulge in a festive meal with these easy, camp-friendly recipes. Here are a few classic Thanksgiving dishes adapted for the campsite, so you can savor the holiday flavors no matter where you are.

Campfire Roasted Turkey Foil Packets

Turkey may be the star of Thanksgiving, but cooking a whole bird at the campsite isn’t always practical. That’s where these Turkey Foil Packets come in. They’re simple, delicious, and easy to clean up!

Ingredients:

• Turkey tenderloins or boneless turkey breast, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 carrots, sliced
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
• Olive oil
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the campfire or grill to medium heat.
2. On a large piece of foil, place a few turkey slices, veggies, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Fold the foil over and crimp the edges to seal.
4. Place the foil packet on the grill or near the coals of the campfire and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

This method keeps the turkey moist and flavorful while minimizing the cleanup!

Skillet Stuffing

Stuffing is a Thanksgiving classic, and it can be just as delicious around a campfire. Using a cast-iron skillet, you can create a savory, herb-filled stuffing in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of cubed stuffing mix or pre-made croutons
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Butter
• Fresh sage and thyme
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the stuffing mix and fresh herbs. Gradually pour in the broth, stirring to moisten.
4. Cover the skillet with foil and place it over indirect heat on the campfire, cooking for 10-15 minutes until the stuffing is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.

Dutch Oven Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

For a touch of sweetness, these campfire-friendly sweet potatoes are the perfect addition.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven, add sweet potatoes, butter, and brown sugar. Cover and place the pot near the fire, cooking until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes.
2. Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and cook for a few more minutes, just until the marshmallows are melted and golden.

A Toast to Thanksgiving in the Wild

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a toast! Try a warm drink like spiced cider or hot chocolate to keep the chill away. Simply warm cider over the fire, add a cinnamon stick, and enjoy.

Celebrating Thanksgiving outdoors is a unique way to appreciate nature’s beauty and spend quality time with loved ones. So gather around the campfire, share what you’re grateful for, and dig into these camping-friendly Thanksgiving dishes. Happy Thanksgiving, campers!