Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

There’s something about cooking over a campfire that makes everything taste better. Maybe it’s the crisp air, the flickering flames, or just the simple joy of gathering around a warm pot of comfort food. This campfire hot dog stew is one of those meals that brings back childhood memories—whether it’s a backyard bonfire or a weekend camping trip. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect one-pot meal for an easy night under the stars.

Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

A bite of nostalgia

I remember the first time I had a version of this stew. It was during a chilly summer camping trip with my family, and after a long day of hiking, we were all starving. My dad, the self-proclaimed camp chef, pulled out a few hot dogs, some leftover veggies, and a can of diced tomatoes. With nothing more than a cast iron pot and an open flame, he whipped up a thick, savory stew that we devoured in minutes. I can still picture the steam rising from my bowl, the smoky scent of firewood mingling with the rich broth, and the way the gooey melted cheese stretched between bites. It was simple, unpretentious, and absolutely delicious.

Where did hot dog stew come from?

Hot dog stew is the definition of resourceful home cooking. Variations of this dish exist in many cultures, often as a way to stretch ingredients and make the most of pantry staples. In the U.S., it’s a popular campfire meal because hot dogs are easy to store and cook. Some versions lean toward a thick, chili-like consistency, while others resemble a rustic vegetable soup. This recipe sits somewhere in between—hearty enough to satisfy, but brothy enough to dip a piece of crusty bread into.

Let’s talk ingredients: simple, comforting, and customizable

  • Hot dogs – These add a smoky, salty bite to the stew. You can use classic beef franks, turkey dogs, or even plant-based hot dogs if you prefer. If you’re feeling fancy, smoked sausage or kielbasa would work well too.
  • Onion & garlic – The base of almost any great stew. Sautéing them first brings out their natural sweetness. Red or yellow onions work best, but in a pinch, a shallot or even some onion powder can do the trick.
  • Carrots & potatoes – These give the stew body and a touch of sweetness. Yukon Golds hold their shape well, while russets break down slightly, adding thickness.
  • Short pasta – Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne help bulk up the stew. If you don’t have pasta, try rice or even broken-up spaghetti.
  • Diced tomatoes – They provide acidity and a subtle sweetness. Fire-roasted tomatoes will add a smoky depth, which is perfect for campfire cooking.
  • Corn – Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds a little pop of texture and sweetness. If using canned, drain it first.
  • Beef broth – The foundation of the stew’s rich, savory broth. You can swap in chicken or vegetable broth, but beef gives it the deepest flavor.
  • Bay leaves & seasonings – A mix of all-purpose seasoning and chili powder gives the stew warmth and depth. If you want extra heat, a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika does wonders.
  • Cheese – The finishing touch! Stir it in for a creamy texture or sprinkle it on top and let it melt over each serving. Cheddar is my go-to, but Colby Jack or pepper jack would be amazing too.
Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

Essential kitchen tools for this one-pot wonder

  • Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – This helps distribute heat evenly and keeps everything from burning. Cast iron is great for campfire cooking.
  • Sharp knife & cutting board – Chopping veggies is easier (and safer) with a good knife.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring everything together without scratching your pot.
  • Ladle – Essential for serving up big, comforting bowls.

Step-by-step: how to make the perfect hot dog stew

  1. Brown the hot dogs – Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add butter and oil. Once melted, toss in the sliced hot dogs and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden and slightly crispy. This step adds an extra layer of flavor. 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 butter and oil for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start sticking, add a splash of broth or a drizzle of extra oil.
  3. Build the broth – Return the hot dogs to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, corn, pasta, broth, bay leaves, and seasonings. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer to perfection – Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. The stew is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
  5. Taste and adjust – Give it a taste (careful, it’s hot!) and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you like a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
  6. Add cheese and serve – Stir in the cheese for a creamy consistency, or sprinkle it over individual bowls. Serve hot, preferably around a cozy fire!
Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

Mix it up: fun variations to try

  • Make it vegetarian – Swap the hot dogs for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth. You can also add extra beans for protein.
  • Go low-carb – Skip the pasta and use cauliflower florets instead. They’ll soak up the flavors just like potatoes.
  • Spice it up – A few dashes of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño will give the stew a fiery kick.
  • Add beans – Black beans or kidney beans make this even heartier.
  • Seasonal swaps – In the summer, add zucchini or bell peppers. In the fall, sweet potatoes work beautifully.

How to serve and enjoy this hearty stew

This stew is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve it with a crusty baguette or some cornbread. A side of coleslaw adds a nice crunch, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce takes it to the next level.

Drinks that pair well with this dish

A cold beer is a classic campfire companion, especially something light like a pilsner or amber ale. If you prefer wine, a medium-bodied red like a Zinfandel works well. For a non-alcoholic option, a warm apple cider is perfect for chilly nights.

Storing and reheating leftovers

This stew keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If freezing, leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating to avoid mushy noodles.

Scaling up or down

This recipe easily doubles for a big crowd. If making a smaller batch, just halve everything, but keep an eye on the liquid—less broth may evaporate in a smaller pot.

Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

Common questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the hot dogs first, then throw everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4.

Can I use different meat?
Absolutely! Smoked sausage, ground beef, or even shredded chicken work well.

What’s the best cheese for this stew?
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but pepper jack or smoked gouda add a fun twist.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is this stew kid-friendly?
Totally! Kids love the hot dogs, and you can control the spice level to keep it mild.

This campfire hot dog stew is pure comfort food, whether you’re out in the woods or just in your own backyard. Try it out, make it your own, and let me know how it turns out!

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Campfire Hot Dog Stew Recipe

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This hearty campfire hot dog stew is a nostalgic one-pot meal perfect for camping or cozy nights at home!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (I like avocado oil)
  • 1 package of hot dogs, sliced (about 12 ounces; a little more or less is fine)
  • 1 small or 1/2 large onion, diced
  • 2 large cloves of garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon if using pre-minced garlic)
  • 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 extra large or 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 cup short pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup of fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels
  • 4 cups of beef broth
  • 12 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 8 ounces of shredded cheese for topping

Instructions

  • Brown the hot dogs – Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add butter and oil. Once melted, toss in the sliced hot dogs and sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden and slightly crispy. This step adds an extra layer of flavor. Remove them from the pot and set them aside.
  • Sauté the veggies – In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and potatoes. Let them cook in the butter and oil for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start sticking, add a splash of broth or a drizzle of extra oil.
  • Build the broth – Return the hot dogs to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, corn, pasta, broth, bay leaves, and seasonings. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Simmer to perfection – Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. The stew is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
  • Taste and adjust – Give it a taste (careful, it’s hot!) and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you like a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
  • Add cheese and serve – Stir in the cheese for a creamy consistency, or sprinkle it over individual bowls. Serve hot, preferably around a cozy fire!

Notes

How to serve and enjoy this hearty stew

This stew is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve it with a crusty baguette or some cornbread. A side of coleslaw adds a nice crunch, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce takes it to the next level.

  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: dinner

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