If you thought going camping meant having the same camping meals of fire-cooked burgers and hot dogs night after night, think again. The truth is there are lots of creative ways to enjoy diverse dishes even when you’re far away from the kitchen. If you’re looking for some new camping meals that go beyond the typical grill fare, look no further. 

My family has tried a lot of different types of camping meals over the years – some successful and some spectacular failures. Here’s a rundown of seven camping meals that are not only total hits with the whole family but also a nice departure from the usual camping food.

Thai Red Curry Rice With Peanut Coconut Sauce

For a red curry that is simple to prepare yet surprisingly complex in flavor, try this recipe. It makes use of minute rice and dried vegetables and chicken, along with powdered coconut milk, for a meal that won’t need any refrigerating beforehand. Who said camping meals have to be bland?

Sweet & Spicy Cashew Chicken Wrap 

For a camping meal that is more assembly than cooking, this Sweet and Spicy Cashew Chicken Salad Wrap fits the bill. Featuring chopped, pre-cooked chicken breast, roasted cashews, mayo, honey, cilantro and sriracha rolled up in a hearty wrap, it’s a delicious way to give your family energy for all the fun camping activities you have planned.

Dutch Oven Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a great choice for camping because there’s a lot more “heating up” involved than actual cooking. Flour tortilla wraps are stuffed with vegetables and blanketed in a spicy tomato sauce, and then cheese is melted over the entire dish for a very satisfying meal that your family will request even when you’re not camping.

Avocado Toast Breakfast Sandwich

This meal can be made in a single skillet, and what I really love about it is that it is equally suited to breakfast, lunch and dinner. Anything that features both avocado and bacon is a winner in my book, and the addition of egg ensures no one will start nagging you for a snack an hour later. As an added bonus, it’s easy to eat – no silverware required!

Dutch Oven Pizza

I know, I know… making pizza while camping? It sounds a bit too ambitious, but I had to give this a try because who doesn’t like pizza? A Dutch oven works surprisingly well for this, especially if you line it with parchment paper first. Whether you choose to buy the dough or make it yourself, this technique ensures tasty results that you can top however you please.

Campfire Nachos

Here’s one camping dish that you an easily master even if your cooking skills leave a lot to be desired. You don’t even need a Dutch oven for this; you can make it on a camp stove or even over a fire if necessary. The secret to maximum flavor in every bite is layering, and you can use whatever ingredients you like. If fresh ingredients like onions or meat aren’t practical, canned beans, chilis or tomatoes also work. And don’t forget to pile on plenty of cheese!

5-Cheese Ziti Al Forno 

Cheese lovers, this is the dish for you! We made this recipe from Delish in a Dutch oven. It features a simple yet delicious alfredo plus a marinara – that’s right, two sauces! – for a meal that will really stick to your ribs. You can prep and pack all the cheese and other ingredients at home so it will all come together in a snap.

Give these fun camping meals a try the next time you go camping, and let me know what you think!