05/16/2026
Campfire Breakfast Chili
Servings: 4–6
Cook Time: 25–35 minutes over the fire
Ingredients:
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• 1 packet chili mix (your favorite brand – mild, medium, or hot)
• 1 large bag (28–32 oz) diced potatoes with onions and peppers (frozen works great; no need to thaw completely)
• 1 can (14.5–15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice – do not drain)
• Optional: salt, black pepper, or hot sauce to taste (if you want extra seasoning)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the fire: Get your open fire grill going with a good bed of hot coals. You want medium-high heat – hot enough to brown the sausage but not so raging that everything burns.
2. Brown the sausage: Place the metal pot directly on the grill grate over the fire. Add the breakfast sausage and break it up with your spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. The fat from the sausage will render and create a flavorful base.
3. Add the veggies: Pour in the entire bag of diced potatoes, onions, and peppers. Stir well to combine with the sausage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the potatoes start to soften and the onions/peppers begin to release their aroma. The fire will give everything a nice smoky char.
4. Build the chili: Sprinkle the entire packet of chili mix over the mixture and stir thoroughly so the spices coat everything evenly.
5. Add tomatoes and simmer: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (including all the juice). Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble – adjust the pot’s position on the grill if needed to control the heat (move it slightly off direct flames for simmering).
6. Simmer: Cover the pot (if it has a lid) or partially cover with foil. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened slightly. The flavors will meld beautifully with that campfire smokiness.
7. Taste and finish: Give it a taste and add salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired. Remove from the fire and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
