Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

There’s something about cooking over a fire that makes everything taste better. Maybe it’s the smoky air, the crackling flames, or just the fact that you’re out in the great outdoors, fully present in the moment. This campfire hot dog stew is one of those recipes that brings back childhood memories of family camping trips, where dinner was a simple yet comforting affair. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and packed with nostalgic flavors that remind me of sitting around a fire, telling stories, and enjoying the warmth of good food and good company.

this RECIPE

A little backstory: how this stew became a camping tradition

One summer, my family took a trip to the mountains, and we had planned everything—except dinner. As the sun set, we rummaged through the cooler and found a package of hot dogs, some leftover veggies, and a can of tomatoes. My dad, always resourceful, threw everything into a pot over the fire, added some broth, and let it simmer. The result? A rich, smoky stew that we devoured in minutes. Since then, it’s been a staple on every camping trip, and over the years, I’ve refined it to perfection.

Why you’ll love this stew

This dish is perfect for camping, but it’s just as good for a cozy weeknight dinner. It’s made with simple, affordable ingredients, and you can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand. The combination of browned hot dogs, hearty potatoes, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth makes it feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it all comes together in one pot, which means easy cleanup—always a win!

Let’s talk ingredients

Each ingredient in this stew plays a role in making it hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Hot dogs – The star of the show! They add a smoky, salty bite. You can use classic beef hot dogs, turkey dogs, or even plant-based alternatives.
• Onion and garlic – These build the savory base of the stew. Fresh is best, but in a pinch, you can use onion powder and pre-minced garlic.
• Carrots and potatoes – These add heartiness and a touch of sweetness. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well, but russets work too for a softer texture.
• Pasta – Short pasta like elbows or rotini soaks up the broth and makes the stew extra filling. You can swap it with rice or omit it for a lower-carb version.
• Diced tomatoes – They add acidity and depth. Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a subtle smokiness.
• Corn – A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements. Frozen, canned, or fresh all work fine.
• Beef broth – The backbone of the stew. For a lighter version, chicken or vegetable broth works too.
• Seasonings – A mix of chili powder, all-purpose seasoning, and bay leaves gives it a cozy, well-rounded flavor.

Essential kitchen tools

This is a simple recipe, but having the right tools makes it even easier:

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – Retains heat well and allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping veggies and slicing hot dogs.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching the pot.
• Ladle – Makes serving easy, especially when you’re dishing it out around a campfire.

Step-by-step: how to make campfire hot dog stew

1. Brown the hot dogs for extra flavor

Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and melt the butter with the oil. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook for a few minutes until they get that golden, slightly crispy edge. This step might seem small, but trust me—it adds so much depth to the stew. Remove them from the pot and set them aside.

2. Sauté the veggies

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Let them cook in the leftover butter and oil for about 7-8 minutes until they start to soften. If they begin to stick, add a little more oil. This step builds the base of the stew, making it rich and flavorful.

3. Bring it all together

Return the hot dogs to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, bay leaves, chili powder, and all-purpose seasoning. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle boil.

4. Simmer and let the flavors develop

Cover the pot partially and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the broth will have thickened slightly.

5. Final touches

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’re adding cheese, you have two options: stir it into the pot for a creamy consistency or sprinkle it on individual bowls for a gooey topping. Either way, it’s delicious!

Variations to try

• Spicy version – Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Vegetarian-friendly – Swap hot dogs for plant-based sausages and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta or replace it with rice.
• Southwest twist – Add a can of black beans and a teaspoon of cumin for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Cheesy overload – Stir in extra shredded cheese for an ultra-creamy version.

How to serve it up

Ladle the stew into bowls and top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even some crushed tortilla chips for crunch. If you’re serving it around a campfire, a slice of crusty bread or a warm biscuit makes the perfect side.

The best drinks to pair with this stew

• For kids – A glass of apple cider or hot cocoa complements the smoky-sweet flavors.
• For adults – A dark beer like a porter or stout pairs beautifully, or try a glass of red wine like a Zinfandel.

Storing and reheating leftovers

This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. It also freezes well—just leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

Scaling the recipe up or down

If you’re cooking for a crowd, double the ingredients and use a larger pot. For a smaller batch, halve everything, but keep an eye on the liquid levels so it doesn’t evaporate too quickly.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Overcooked pasta – If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when serving.
• Too thick? – Add extra broth or water to loosen it up.
• Too bland? – A dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten up the flavors.

Give it a try!

Whether you’re making this stew over a campfire or in your kitchen, it’s a foolproof way to create a comforting meal that everyone will love. Try it out, make it your own, and let me know how it turns out!

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well, so you can cook it in advance and warm it up when needed.

What’s the best way to cook this over a campfire?
Use a cast iron Dutch oven and place it over a grill grate or low-burning coals. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even ground beef work well.

What if I don’t have beef broth?
Chicken or vegetable broth will do just fine. You can even use water with a bouillon cube.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the hot dogs and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.

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