Overland Cooking: Delicious Recipes for Campfire Meals on Your Land Rover Expedition

Embarking on a Land Rover expedition is not just about the thrill of off-road adventure and exploring remote destinations—it’s also an opportunity to indulge in delicious campfire meals that satisfy the soul after a day of exploration. Overland cooking is all about getting creative with limited resources, embracing the simplicity of outdoor cooking, and savoring the flavors of freshly prepared meals in the great outdoors.

As an avid Land Rover enthusiast and experienced overland traveler, I’m excited to share some of my favorite campfire recipes that are perfect for your next expedition. From hearty breakfasts to savory dinners and sweet treats, these recipes are sure to elevate your outdoor dining experience and leave you craving seconds.

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and that’s especially true when you’re embarking on a Land Rover expedition filled with off-road excitement and exploration. Start your day off right with these delicious breakfast recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, leaving you energized and ready for whatever the trail throws your way.

1. Campfire Breakfast Burritos:

Ingredients:

• Flour tortillas
• Eggs
• Breakfast sausage or bacon
• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over your campfire or portable stove and cook the breakfast sausage or bacon until browned and crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté diced bell peppers and onions until tender.
3. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble until cooked through.
4. Assemble the breakfast burritos by spooning the scrambled eggs onto a flour tortilla, followed by the cooked sausage or bacon, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheese.
5. Roll up the tortillas, folding in the sides, to form burritos.
6. Wrap the burritos in aluminum foil and place them on a grill or over the campfire, turning occasionally, until heated through and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot with your favorite hot sauce or salsa.

2. Dutch Oven Breakfast Casserole:

Ingredients:

• Hash browns
• Breakfast sausage
• Eggs
• Milk
• Shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Preheat your Dutch oven over hot coals from your campfire.
2. Brown the breakfast sausage in the Dutch oven, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Remove from the Dutch oven and set aside.
3. Layer the hash browns in the bottom of the Dutch oven, followed by the cooked sausage.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the hash browns and sausage in the Dutch oven.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it over hot coals, adding additional coals on top of the lid to create even heat distribution.
7. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is golden brown on top.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
9. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired, and enjoy a hearty breakfast casserole to fuel your day of adventure.

3. Campfire Pancakes:

Ingredients:

• Pancake mix (store-bought or homemade)
• Water or milk
• Butter or oil for greasing the skillet
• Maple syrup, honey, or your favorite toppings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pancake batter according to the instructions on the package or your favorite homemade recipe.
2. Heat a skillet or griddle over your campfire or portable stove and grease with butter or oil.
3. Pour the pancake batter onto the skillet, using a ladle or measuring cup to control the size of the pancakes.
4. Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges start to look set, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown.
5. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed.
6. Serve hot with maple syrup, honey, or your favorite toppings.

Start your day off right with these hearty and delicious breakfast recipes that are sure to fuel your Land Rover expedition adventures. Stay tuned for the next section of our guide, where we’ll explore savory dinner options and sweet treats to enjoy around the campfire under the starry night sky.

After a day of off-road exploration and adventure, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the campfire to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dinner. From classic comfort foods to inventive one-pot meals, these savory campfire recipes are sure to hit the spot and leave you feeling fully satisfied after a day of outdoor excitement.

1. Campfire Chili:

Ingredients:

• Ground beef or turkey
• Onion, diced
• Bell peppers, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Canned beans (such as kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans)
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, diced avocado

Instructions:

1. Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over your campfire or portable stove.
2. Brown the ground beef or turkey in the Dutch oven, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in canned beans (drained and rinsed), canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the chili to a simmer, then cover and let cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors are well combined and the chili has thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and diced avocado.

2. One-Pot Pasta Primavera:

Ingredients:

• Pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Assorted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and spinach)
• Vegetable broth or water
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over your campfire or portable stove.
2. Add olive oil to the pot and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add assorted vegetables to the pot and cook until softened.
4. Stir in dry pasta and vegetable broth or water, making sure the pasta is submerged in liquid.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

3. Grilled Steak and Veggie Kabobs:

Ingredients:

• Steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes
• Assorted vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms), cut into chunks
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill over the campfire or portable stove.
2. Thread steak cubes and assorted vegetables onto skewers, alternating between meat and vegetables.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers over the campfire, turning occasionally, until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, and enjoy the smoky flavors of grilled steak and veggies straight from the campfire.

4. Campfire Quesadillas:

Ingredients:

• Flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
• Cooked chicken or beef, shredded (optional)
• Salsa
• Guacamole or sliced avocado
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over your campfire or portable stove.
2. Place a flour tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese over half of the tortilla.
3. If using, add cooked chicken or beef on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the cheese and meat, creating a quesadilla.
5. Cook the quesadilla in the skillet, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before slicing into wedges.
7. Serve hot, with salsa, guacamole, or sliced avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro on the side.

No camping trip or Land Rover expedition is complete without a sweet treat to satisfy your sweet tooth and indulge your senses. From gooey s’mores to decadent campfire pies, these dessert recipes are guaranteed to delight and leave you craving more.

1. Classic Campfire S’mores:

Ingredients:

• Graham crackers
• Marshmallows
• Chocolate bars (such as Hershey’s)

Instructions:

1. Toast marshmallows over the campfire until golden brown and gooey.
2. Place a toasted marshmallow between two graham crackers, along with a piece of chocolate.
3. Press the sandwich together gently to melt the chocolate and sandwich the marshmallow between the crackers.
4. Enjoy the classic combination of graham crackers, melted chocolate, and gooey marshmallow goodness.

*As a side note for this one, some very awesome people at a great Land Rover event we attend, brought Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and introduced us to a whole new level of Smores! It is a must try!

2. Campfire Banana Boats:

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas
• Chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
• Optional toppings: caramel sauce, whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Leave the banana peel intact and slice each banana lengthwise, cutting through the peel and just into the banana flesh.
2. Gently pry open the banana, creating a pocket for the fillings.
3. Fill the banana pockets with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts, pressing them down into the banana flesh.
4. Wrap each banana in aluminum foil, sealing it tightly to prevent any fillings from leaking out.
5. Place the foil-wrapped bananas on the grill or over the campfire, cooking for 5-10 minutes, or until the fillings are melted and the bananas are soft and caramelized.
6. Carefully remove the bananas from the heat and let them cool slightly before unwrapping them.
7. Serve hot, with optional toppings such as caramel sauce and whipped cream.

3. Campfire Apple Crisp:

Ingredients:

• Apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• Lemon juice
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Butter, cold and diced
• Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well coated.
2. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and diced cold butter until crumbly.
3. Layer the sliced apples in the bottom of a cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the top of the apples.
5. Cover the skillet or baking dish with aluminum foil and place it on a grill or over the campfire, cooking for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve hot, with optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

4. Campfire Banana S’mores:

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas
• Chocolate chips
• Mini marshmallows
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Optional toppings: caramel sauce, whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Leave the banana peel intact and slice each banana lengthwise, cutting through the peel and just into the banana flesh.
2. Gently pry open the banana, creating a pocket for the fillings.
3. Fill the banana pockets with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs, pressing them down into the banana flesh.
4. Wrap each banana in aluminum foil, sealing it tightly to prevent any fillings from leaking out.
5. Place the foil-wrapped bananas on the grill or over the campfire, cooking for 5-10 minutes, or until the fillings are melted and the bananas are soft and caramelized.
6. Carefully remove the bananas from the heat and let them cool slightly before unwrapping.
7. Serve hot, with optional toppings such as caramel sauce and whipped cream.

5. Campfire Peach Cobbler:

Ingredients:

• Canned or fresh peaches, sliced
• Lemon juice
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Butter melted
• Milk
• Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss sliced peaches with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well coated.
2. Spread the peach mixture evenly in the bottom of a cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the batter over the peaches in the skillet or baking dish.
5. Cover the skillet or baking dish with aluminum foil and place it on a grill or over the campfire, cooking for 25-30 minutes, or until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve hot, with optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Indulge your sweet tooth and treat yourself to these irresistible campfire desserts on your next Land Rover expedition. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night around the campfire with friends and family or simply savoring the solitude of the great outdoors, these sweet treats are sure to enhance your outdoor dining experience and leave you with memories to cherish for years to come.

Amid your Land Rover expedition, there will inevitably be moments when hunger strikes between meals or you need a quick boost of energy to keep you going on the trail. That’s where having a selection of convenient on-the-go snacks and quick-to-eat foods comes in handy. These portable options are perfect for fueling up while on the move or satisfying cravings between meals, ensuring that you stay energized and focused on the adventure ahead.

1. Trail Mix:

Trail mix is a classic snack choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a satisfying combination of nuts, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or other sweet treats. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, trail mix provides a quick and convenient source of energy to keep you going on the trail. You can easily prepare your own trail mix at home by combining your favorite ingredients, such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, raisins, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate chips. Store your trail mix in resealable bags or containers for easy access while on the go.

2. Protein Bars:

Protein bars are a convenient and portable snack option that is perfect for refueling during your Land Rover expedition. Whether you prefer whey protein, plant-based protein, or a combination of both, there are plenty of options available to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Look for protein bars that are low in added sugars and artificial ingredients, and opt for flavors that you enjoy. Keep a stash of protein bars in your Land Rover’s glove compartment or center console so that you always have a quick and easy snack on hand when hunger strikes.

3. Beef Jerky:

Beef jerky is a savory and protein-packed snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching during your Land Rover expedition. Made from lean cuts of beef that have been marinated and dried, beef jerky is lightweight, portable, and shelf-stable, making it an ideal option for outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer traditional beef jerky or enjoy experimenting with flavors like teriyaki, spicy, or peppered, there’s a variety of options available to suit your taste preferences. Just be sure to choose jerky made from high-quality ingredients and minimal additives for the best flavor and nutritional value.

4. Fresh Fruit:

Fresh fruit is a refreshing and nutritious snack option that provides natural sweetness and hydration on the trail. Apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes are all excellent choices for portable fruits that are easy to eat on the go. Pack whole fruits in your Land Rover’s cooler or storage compartments, or opt for pre-cut fruit cups or slices for added convenience. Fresh fruit not only provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants but also helps to keep you hydrated during outdoor activities.

5. Nut Butter Packs:

Nut butter packs, such as individual servings of almond butter or peanut butter, are convenient and mess-free options for on-the-go snacking during your Land Rover expedition. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, nut butter provides long-lasting energy to keep you fueled for hours of off-road adventure. Pair nut butter packs with whole grain crackers, apple slices, or bananas for a satisfying and portable snack that’s perfect for refueling between meals.

6. Energy Gels and Chews:

Energy gels and chews are quick and convenient sources of carbohydrates and electrolytes that are designed to provide an immediate boost of energy during intense physical activity. These gel-based snacks come in single-serve packets or chewable form and are typically consumed during endurance sports like running, cycling, or hiking. While energy gels and chews may not be everyone’s preferred snack choice, they can be a useful option for maintaining energy levels during long days of off-road driving and exploration.

7. Cheese and Crackers:

Cheese and crackers make for a simple yet satisfying snack option that’s perfect for on-the-go munching during your Land Rover expedition. Choose individually wrapped cheese sticks or single-serve cheese portions for easy portion control and packable convenience. Pair your favorite cheese with whole-grain crackers or pretzels for added crunch and fiber. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while crackers offer carbohydrates for sustained energy, making this snack combo a balanced and tasty option for refueling on the trail.

8. Veggie Sticks and Hummus:

Veggie sticks and hummus are a nutritious and satisfying snack option that’s perfect for on-the-go munching during your Land Rover expedition. Pack pre-cut vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber in resealable bags or containers for easy transport and snacking. Pair your veggie sticks with single-serve portions of hummus for added flavor and protein. Hummus provides a creamy and satisfying dip for your veggies, while also offering essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and healthy fats to keep you fueled and satisfied on the trail.

9. Granola Bars:

Granola bars are a convenient and versatile snack option that’s perfect for on-the-go fueling during your Land Rover expedition. Whether you prefer chewy or crunchy, chocolate-coated or fruit-filled, there’s a granola bar out there to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Look for granola bars made with whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a nutritious and satisfying snack option. Pack a variety of granola bars in your Land Rover’s snack stash to keep hunger at bay and fuel your adventures with ease.

10. Dried Fruit:

Dried fruit is a portable and delicious snack option that’s perfect for on-the-go munching during your Land Rover expedition. Whether you prefer classic options like raisins, apricots, and dates, or enjoy more exotic choices like mango, pineapple, and kiwi, there’s a wide variety of dried fruits to choose from to suit your taste preferences. Dried fruit provides natural sweetness, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for refueling on the trail.

Mastering the art of overland cooking and snack preparation can significantly enhance your Land Rover expedition experience. By incorporating a diverse range of recipes and snack options into your outdoor culinary repertoire, you can elevate your camping meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re savoring a hearty campfire dinner, indulging in a sweet treat under the stars, or enjoying a quick and convenient on-the-go snack while exploring off the off-the-beaten path, good food has the power to fuel your adventures and create unforgettable memories along the way.

From savory campfire chili and grilled steak kabobs to indulgent desserts like campfire banana boats and peach cobbler, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to enjoy during your outdoor escapades. These recipes not only satisfy your hunger but also nourish your body with wholesome ingredients that provide essential energy for the journey ahead. Additionally, preparing meals and snacks on the trail allows you to connect with nature in a unique and meaningful way, fostering a deeper appreciation for the landscapes and environments you’re exploring.

In addition to mealtime delights, having a well-stocked selection of on-the-go snacks and quick-to-eat foods ensures that you’re always prepared for whatever the trail may bring. From protein-packed protein bars and beef jerky to refreshing fresh fruit and energizing nut butter packs, these portable snacks provide convenient fuel to keep you going strong throughout your Land Rover expedition. With the right snacks on hand, you can power through long days of driving, hiking, and exploring without missing a beat.

Ultimately, the key to successful overland cooking and snacking lies in preparation, creativity, and a sense of adventure. With the right tools, ingredients, and mindset, you can turn any Land Rover expedition into a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress even the most discerning of outdoor enthusiasts.

As you embark on your next epic road trip adventure in your Land Rover, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Take the time to savor the flavors of the great outdoors, whether you’re enjoying a gourmet meal by the campfire or nibbling on a quick snack between activities. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with new recipes, flavors, and ingredients, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your outdoor cooking endeavors.

So pack your cooler, fire up the camp stove, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other. The open road awaits, and with it, a world of delicious possibilities.

Happy cooking, and bon appétit!