12 Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipes for Camping Meals

What is more comforting and filling than a hearty bowl of pasta? Pasta is a great choice for camping because it’s easy to pack and prepare, and can be a base for all kinds of flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or creamy, vegetarian or meat-based, the pasta possibilities are endless. 

All of these recipes are  delicious and easy to prepare with a camp stove in a few simple steps. Best of all, they only require one pot!

1. Simple One Pot Pasta

This comforting recipe is as simple as it gets – the ingredients don’t require refrigeration, and it all comes together quickly. 

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 x 400 tin tomatoes
• 400 ml stock
• handful fresh basil, torn, or 1/4 tsp dried
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 225 grms pasta
• salt to taste
• handful of parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in your pot and then add the onions. Saute until translucent, then add the garlic and saute until fragrant. 

Dump in the tomatoes and their juices, the stock, basil, Italian seasoning, and the pasta. Give it a big stir to combine everything.

The liquid may not completely cover the pasta yet – that is OK, just stir it fairly often so it cooks evenly; if you add too much liquid your sauce will not thicken up enough by the time the pasta is done. 

Cover your pot until the liquid comes to a boil (this quickens the process and saves you fuel). Once it’s boiling, remove the cover and cook until the pasta is al dente.

The cooking time on the pasta packaging will be a good indicator, but use your judgment as all camp cooking setups are a bit different.

Once your pasta is cooked through, serve, topped with cheese and fresh basil if you’ve got it!

Recipe source: Fresh Off the Grid

2. Easy One Pot Spaghetti (with or without ground beef)

This hearty, filling spaghetti dish is perfect for cooler nights. The ground beef is optional, but it adds a warming heartiness perfect for an outdoor dinner. 

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 500 grms lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 x 400 grm tins crushed tomatoes
• tomato paste
•  fresh parsley chopped for garnish (optional)
• 225 grms dried spaghetti broken in half

Instructions

In a large pot, heat up oil over medium high heat for a minute. Add chopped onion and cook until slightly translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Add ground beef and brown until cooked through – approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add stock, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Add spaghetti and stir well.

Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered 9-11 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente.

Serve up in bowls to make it easy to eat at your camp chair!

Recipe source: The Spicy Apron

3. One Pot Pesto Pasta with Bacon

This yummy pesto pasta is easy to throw together while camping and can be modified to suit your taste. If you are a vegetarian, skip the bacon; if you like some extra spice, add red pepper flakes! 

Ingredients

• 2 slices bacon
• 2 courgettes, sliced
• A handful of cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups pasta
• ¼ cup pesto
• ¼ cup parmesan
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• Salt + pepper

Instructions

Cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, chop and set aside.

Add the zucchini, cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt to the skillet and saute until the zucchini is tender and beginning to brown in spots, 5-7 minutes. Remove the vegetables to a plate or bowl and set aside.

Add the pasta, 3 cups water and ½ teaspoon salt to the skillet. Boil, stirring frequently until the pasta is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, about 10 minutes (but check package directions).

You can add more water if needed or drain at the end if there is excess. Remove from heat.

Toss the pasta with the pesto, then toss in the vegetables, parmesan cheese, chopped bacon and pine nuts. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Recipe source: REI

4. One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Camping Pasta Recipe

This creamy, spicy chicken and pasta dish is bursting with flavor. You can bring raw chicken in a cooler and cook it over a barbeque, or pre-cook the chicken breasts for even easier preparation. 

Ingredients

• 1 litre chicken stock
• 450 grms farfalle pasta
• 2 pre-cooked chicken breasts halves, sliced thin
• 1 x 400 grm tin tomatoes
• 225 grms cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 small jalapeno pepper diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley optional

Instructions

In a 12 inch cast iron Dutch oven, bring chicken broth to boil over high heat using a campfire, camp stove or RV stove for cooking.

Add the pasta and cook covered till al dente and still firm to the bite, about 5-10 minutes. Do not drain any liquid from the pot.

Reduce the heat to medium-high and stir in the chicken, tomatoes, cream cheese, Cajun seasoning, jalapeno, salt and pepper.

Cook covered till the chicken is heated through and cream cheese is melted, stirring occasionally.

Remove cover and continue cooking until the sauce reaches your desired thickness, about 5-10 minutes total.

Top with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Recipe source: Camping for Foodies

5. Vegan Lemon Pasta

This recipe proves that camping meals can be healthy, refreshing, and filling at the same time. Loaded with veggies and herbs, this vegan lemon pasta is a perfect meal for warm summer nights. 

Ingredients

• 150 grms penne pasta
• 200 grms fresh green beans
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• ⅓ lemon – juiced
• 1 handful basil – finely chopped
• 50 grams green olives – sliced
• 4 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp chili flakes
• ½ tsp salt – plus extra to boil the pasta

Instructions

 Begin by boiling the pasta submerging it with 10 cm of water on top.

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a dash of salt, stir then place the lid on top to cook for 7 – 12 minutes.

Add the trimmed and halved green beans, then return to the heat for 7 minutes.

Drain then return the pasta and green beans to the pot.

Add the garlic, peeled and chopped, along with the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, basil, olives, nutritional yeast, chili flakes and salt.

Stir on the heat for 3 minutes then serve and enjoy.

Recipe source: Veggie Vagabonds

6. Campfire Chili Mac

This hearty and flavourful one-pot pasta dish combines the best of both worlds—spicy chilli flavour and the rich, creamy texture of macaroni. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly night by the campfire.  

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
•  2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chilli powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, and then stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, beef broth, chilli powder, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the flavours meld together. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

Recipe source: Fresh Off the Grid

7. Garlic and Herb One-Pot Pasta

Elevate your camping dining experience with this aromatic and flavorful garlic and herb-infused pasta. Not only is the sauce easy to make, but it’s also packed with fresh-tasting herbs that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup of fresh well-chopped basil
• 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped oregano
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 225 grams linguine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat, add the minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.

Stir in the basil, parsley, and oregano, ensuring you’re coating the garlic in the herbs.

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, and linguine, then sprinkle some salt, and pepper to your taste.

Bring the pasta to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente. Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe source: Sweet Simple Vegan

8. Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

What better way to satisfy your camping cravings than to indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish filled with earthy mushrooms and nutritious spinach?

This one-pot wonder is sure to transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise right at your campsite. With its delightful combination of creamy textures, earthy flavours, and vibrant greens, this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a comforting yet gourmet addition to your camping menu.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 200 grams mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves, washed
• 300 grams of pasta
• 2 tablespoons white miso
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, then cook until softened. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re brown and release their moisture.

In a small bowl, add half of the reserved pasta water, whisk together with the miso, and add to your sauce.

Then stir in spinach until wilted, add vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Then sprinkle some salt and black pepper to taste.

Once the liquid boils, add the pasta and boil until the sauce thickens. Then garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle some lemon juice before serving.

Recipe source: Eating Well

9. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Bring a taste of the sea to your camping trip with this zesty and refreshing lemon garlic shrimp pasta. Quick to make and bursting with flavours, it’s a delightful choice for seafood lovers.

It’s also a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor dining experience, capturing the essence of coastal cuisine but with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 225 grams of linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 570 grams of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes
• 25 grams grated parmesan cheese

Instruction

Cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, and then add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.

Add minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, butter, and oregano. Toss everything together until well combined and add the cooked pasta.

Season with salt and red pepper flakes, then sprinkle fresh parsley and cheese before serving.

Recipe source: Tasty.co

10. Mediterranean One-Pot Orzo with Roasted Vegetables

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this flavorful one-pot orzo dish. Packed with roasted vegetables and Mediterranean herbs, it’s a light yet satisfying option for a campfire dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 capsicum, diced
• 1 courgette, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic.

Sauté until the vegetables start to caramelize. Stir in orzo, dried oregano, dried thyme, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a simmer and cook until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Recipe source: The Hungry Bites

11. Creamy Pesto Tortellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Elevate your camping pasta game with this creamy and indulgent pesto tortellini. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes brings a burst of sweetness and tanginess to every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 package (about 255 grams) cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
•  Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a pot, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil pesto, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the cheese is melted, and the sauce is creamy.

Add the cooked tortellini to the pot, tossing until well coated in the creamy pesto sauce.

Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Recipe source: Food.com

12. Caprese Pasta Salad

Elevate your camping culinary experience with this refreshing and vibrant Caprese pasta salad.

Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this dish brings together the goodness of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, creating a light and flavourful pasta salad that’s perfect for outdoor dining.

Ingredients:

•  225 grams bowtie pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix red and yellow)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or vinegar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Balsamic reduction for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Boil bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool to room temperature.

In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the pasta and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Season with salt and black pepper, ensuring a perfect balance of flavours.

Set the pasta salad aside for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle balsamic reduction over the pasta salad just before serving.

Recipe source: Gimmesomeoven

Camp at Broken Head Holiday Park

Located just south of Byron Bay, Broken Head Holiday Park is the perfect location for your next outdoor escape. We have camp barbeques or bring your portable camp stove to make these one pot pasta meals.

Book your next getaway today!