Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

There’s something about cooking over an open fire that makes everything taste better. Whether you’re out camping or just recreating that cozy outdoor vibe at home, this campfire hot dog stew is the perfect one-pot meal to warm you up. It’s packed with smoky, savory flavors, tender veggies, and a touch of nostalgia—because who didn’t love a good hot dog as a kid?

this RECIPE

I first made this stew on a chilly evening during a camping trip with friends. We had planned a fancy grilled dinner, but after a long hike, all we wanted was something simple, filling, and delicious. Someone had hot dogs, another had some veggies, and before we knew it, we had this bubbling, fragrant stew simmering away over the fire. It was the ultimate comfort food, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen, even when there’s no campfire in sight.

Where did hot dog stew come from?

While this dish doesn’t have an official origin, it feels like a blend of classic American comfort food and hearty Depression-era cooking. Hot dogs became a popular budget-friendly ingredient in the early 1900s, and people got creative with how to use them. Throwing them into stews, casseroles, and skillet meals was a way to stretch a meal and make it extra satisfying. Today, hot dog stew is a beloved campfire dish, easy to prepare with minimal ingredients while still being packed with flavor.

What makes this stew so good?

• Easy to make – Everything goes into one pot, and there’s no need for fancy techniques.
• Budget-friendly – Hot dogs, potatoes, and canned tomatoes keep this meal affordable.
• Feeds a crowd – It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for sharing.
• Customizable – You can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Let’s talk ingredients

• Hot dogs – They add smoky, salty goodness to the stew. You can use classic beef, turkey, or even plant-based hot dogs. If you want a little extra depth, try smoked sausages or kielbasa.
• Onion and garlic – These form the base of the stew, bringing sweetness and rich aroma. Fresh is best, but in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can work.
• Carrots and potatoes – They add texture, heartiness, and natural sweetness. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well, but sweet potatoes could add a fun twist.
• Pasta – Short pasta like elbows or rotini helps make the stew extra filling. If you want a lower-carb version, you can skip the pasta or replace it with cauliflower florets.
• Diced tomatoes – The slight acidity balances the richness of the hot dogs and cheese. If you prefer a smoother texture, use tomato sauce instead.
• Corn – A pop of sweetness that complements the smoky flavors. Fresh, frozen, or canned all work fine.
• Beef broth – Adds deep, savory flavor. You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth if needed.
• Seasonings – A mix of all-purpose seasoning, chili powder, and bay leaves gives this stew warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Cheese – The final touch! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all melt beautifully.

What kitchen tools do you need?

• Dutch oven or heavy pot – This is key for even cooking and maintaining heat, especially if you’re making it over a fire. A cast-iron pot works great.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – You’ll need to chop veggies and slice hot dogs.
• Ladle or wooden spoon – For stirring and serving.
• Can opener – If you’re using canned tomatoes or corn.

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

1. Sauté the hot dogs – Heat your Dutch oven over medium heat and add the butter and oil. Toss in the sliced hot dogs and cook until they’re lightly browned. This helps bring out their smoky flavor. Remove them from the pot and set them aside.
2. Cook the veggies – In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Let them cook in the remaining butter and oil for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. If things start to stick, add a tiny splash of broth or more oil.
3. Bring it all together – Return the hot dogs to the pot, then add the pasta, diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, bay leaves, and seasonings. Give it a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer until tender – Partially cover the pot with a lid and let everything cook for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Once the potatoes and pasta are tender, it’s ready.
5. Taste and adjust – Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Be careful—it’ll be hot!
6. Serve with cheese – You can stir the cheese into the stew for a creamy texture or sprinkle it on top of each bowl.

Want to switch it up? Try these variations

• Spicy kick – Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Smoky BBQ version – Stir in a spoonful of barbecue sauce for a slightly sweet, smoky twist.
• Vegetarian version – Swap hot dogs for plant-based sausages and use vegetable broth.
• Creamy style – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• Extra protein – Add beans, ground beef, or shredded chicken for more protein.

How to serve and enjoy

For a cozy dinner, serve this stew with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. If you’re outdoors, ladle it into sturdy bowls and top with cheese and maybe a few crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.

The best drinks to pair with this dish

• For adults – A smoky red wine like Malbec or a dark beer complements the flavors beautifully.
• For kids – A cold glass of apple cider or homemade lemonade makes a great match.

Storing and reheating leftovers

• Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight!
• Freezer – It freezes well for up to 3 months, but leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it (add fresh pasta when reheating).
• Reheat – Warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Need to make more (or less)?

This recipe scales easily! Just adjust ingredient amounts while keeping the ratios roughly the same. If making a big batch, use a larger pot and extend the cooking time slightly.

Troubleshooting tips

• Stew too thick? Add more broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
• Pasta overcooked? If you’re making this ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Too salty? A squeeze of lemon juice or a little extra potato can balance it out.

Time to get cooking!

This campfire hot dog stew is comfort food at its best—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it at home or over an open fire, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and nostalgia to the table. Give it a try and make it your own with fun variations. I’d love to hear how it turns out!

FAQs

Can I use different meats instead of hot dogs?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even diced ham would work well.

What’s the best way to cook this over a real campfire?
Use a sturdy Dutch oven and keep the fire at a steady, medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook everything except the pasta on low for 6-7 hours, then add the pasta in the last 30 minutes.

What’s the best cheese for topping?
Cheddar is a classic, but Monterey Jack or smoked gouda adds great flavor.

Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Bell peppers, green beans, or zucchini would be great additions.

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