Camp Cuisine: 3 Irresistible Grilled Cheese Recipes
Who says camp cooking only has to be hotdogs and s’mores? Step up your culinary camping game with everyone’s favorite comfort food – grilled cheese! The versions in this guide aren’t your ordinary sandwiches; they’re gooey, golden, and packed with gourmet flair that’ll make you the favorite at your next group campout. Whether you’re a fan of bold new flavors, melty classics, or savory-and-sweet combos, these top 3 grilled cheese recipes will have your taste buds singing. As always feel free to swap out any of the ingredients below for something else. Feel free to take these recipes as inspiration to make your own delectable concoctions. So, grab your skillet, fire up the camp stove, and get ready to upgrade your camping meal experience!
Before we get started, here’s a pro tip from our resident grilled cheese aficionado, Landon:
“If you’re done using your travel Palmolive bottle – don’t just toss it in the trash! Wash it out thoroughly and add some olive oil. Now you’ve got yourself the perfect camping travel bottle for your next meal!” This hack will make sure you’re always ready for perfectly golden bread without the bulky oil bottle.
Want to watch along and see the magic happen, check out our video here walking you through each recipe and how to perfectly cook the sandos.
Recipe #1:
The Triple P Toastie
Meet your new favorite grilled cheese: a savory and salty delight packed with melty provolone, zesty pesto, and prosciutto all nestled between crispy slices of sourdough bread. This one’s a showstopper for any campsite cookoff
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons of pesto (plus extra for dipping if you’re feeling indulgent)
- 2 slices of provolone cheese
- 2 or more slices of prosciutto
Instructions:
- Preheat your cast iron skillet on low to medium heat.
- Spread a thin layer of olive oil or butter on the outside of each bread slice.
- Spread pesto on the inside of each slice, then layer with provolone and prosciutto.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and press gently with a spatula. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking tip: Use a cast iron skillet for an evenly crisp and melty center. Cast iron retains heat better and distributes it more evenly for the perfect toasting.
Recipe #2:
The Classic (with a spin)
If you’re a pickle lover, and you’re craving something bold and hearty, this spin on a classic grilled cheese has you covered. Simple and easy you’ll just need your choice of bread, sharp cheddar, and sliced pickles – it's the perfect fireside fuel. The addition of pickles gives this sandwich a tangy crunch that’ll elevate it to next-level status. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for chilly nights around the campfire.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of sourdough bread
- 2-3 slices of sharp cheddar cheese
- Pickles (Dill or spicy, rounds or slices)
Instructions:
- Spread olive oil or butter on the outside of each bread slice.
- Place sharp cheddar slices and your pickles between the bread.
- Cook on low to medium heat in a skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Why It Works: The sharpness of the cheddar pairs perfectly with the tang of the pickles, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Recipe #3:
The Blackberry, Basil, and Brie - aka the Tripple B
Imagine sitting by the fire, biting into a perfectly crisp French bread sandwich filled with creamy, decadent brie cheese and sweet huckleberry jam. This is elegance made campfire-friendly. It’s simple to make but feels gourmet. It's a perfect way to treat yourself after a day of exploring.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of French bread
- Brie cheese (2-3 slices or a small wedge)
- Blackberry jam (2 tablespoons)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, but recommended)
Instructions:
- Spread olive oil or butter on the outside of each bread slice.
- Spread blackberry jam on the inside of one slice, then layer with brie and basil.
- Cook on low to medium heat in your skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the brie is perfectly gooey.
Cooking Tips: Opt for blackberry jam, not jelly – the added texture and berry chunks make this recipe even more satisfying.
Elevate Your Camp Cuisine
There you have it: three gourmet grilled cheese recipes that will upgrade any camping trip. If you’re looking for more easy recipes to make at the campsite, check out our series Camp Cuisine – and make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Whether you try one – or all three –these recipes are guaranteed to make your next camping trip even better. So, grab your ingredients and get to cooking! We’ll see you out there.
