These campfire nachos are the easiest camping food idea—perfectly cheesy, loaded with beef, onions, and avocado, and cooked right in a foil packet or Dutch oven over open flames. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or grilling in the backyard, this recipe delivers comfort food simplicity every time.

This is the perfect meal, no matter if you are looking for a fun and delicious recipe for you’re camping or need an outdoor dinner idea to cook over the fire pit in the backyard.

Dutch oven nachos are always a hit with my family. It’s a fun recipe and changes up our dinner routine.

The Easiest Campfire Nachos

Campfire Nachos Ingredients

Tortilla Chips

1 lb ground beef

1 package taco seasoning

2/3 cup water

1 cup cheddar cheese

1 small onion, chopped

1 tbsp cilantro, chopped

1 large avocado, chopped

How to make Dutch Oven Nachos

Cook ground beef until browned

Add in water, and stir in taco seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.

In a large cast iron dutch oven, layer with chips, cheese, beef and onion.

Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Once cheese is melted, top with cilantro and avocado.

Serve immediately. 

READ NEXT: 15 Easy Camping Recipes

Grilled Nachos Recipe

This recipe really is that simple! I like this dish because it works great with leftover taco meat. Or you can the meat ahead of time and can heat up easily in the dutch oven.

Tips for Perfect Campfire Nachos

• Preheat a layer of hot coals or firewood before cooking—aim for medium-high heat.
• Use cast iron Dutch ovens or double foil layers to prevent burning.
• Let cheese “sit” 2 minutes after cooking for gooey melt.

Nacho Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip beef, add black beans + corn.
• Spicy kick: Mix diced jalapeños or hot salsa in cheese layer.
• Breakfast Nachos: Use scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, cheddar, and serve with salsa.

Campfire Nachos – FAQ

• Can I make this ahead and reheat later?
  Yes! Pre‑cook beef, layer ingredients in foil packets, refrigerate. Reheat over coals or grill for 8–10 min until hot.
• How do I keep chips from getting soggy?
  Use sturdy, thick tortilla chips and cook on medium heat (not high). Let packets rest 2 minutes before opening.
• Can I swap beef for another protein?
  Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant‑based crumbles all work great.
• What’s the best cheese to use?
  Sharp cheddar melts well—but pepper jack or Monterey Jack add extra flavor options.

Campfire Nacho Toppings

The toppings for these campfire nachos are endless. Other toppings that pair nicely are black beans, tomatoes, sour cream and salsa. 

I enjoy cooking over the campfire. Especially when the weather is gorgeous. This beef stew recipe is a great hearty recipe, cowboy grilled cheese is a crowd pleaser and queso is a great late night snack while sitting around the bonfire.

Want more campfire cooking ideas? Try our Dutch oven beef stew or check out 15 easy camping recipes that are family‑approved.

Campfire Nachos Recipe

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Loaded campfire nachos topped with cheese, onions and avocado. Outdoor cooking is fun with this easy recipe!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 16 ounces Tortilla Chips
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• 1 large avocado, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook ground beef until browned
2. Add in water, and stir in taco seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a large cast iron dutch oven, layer with chips, cheese, beef and onion.
4. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
5. Once cheese is melted, top with cilantro and avocado.
6. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 624Total Fat: 34gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 67mgSodium: 389mgCarbohydrates: 56gFiber: 7gSugar: 1gProtein: 27g

A Cowboy’s Life is all about finding Joy in the Everyday! I enjoy sharing fun dinner recipes, family travel ideas and outdoor adventures to explore with your family.