There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of a campfire meal wafting through the air, bringing back memories of backyard gatherings under the stars. Imagine the flavors of summer captured in a single dish—tender beef, mini potatoes, sweet corn on the cob, and juicy cherry tomatoes—all nestled together in a cozy foil packet. That’s exactly what you’ll find in my Slow Cooker Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes, a copycat of Cracker Barrel’s beloved dish.
With every bite, you’ll savor the rich, smoky essence that transports you straight to the great outdoors, while enjoying the convenience of a slow cooker. Family-friendly and packed with 35 grams of protein per serving, this easy recipe offers a hassle-free way to whip up a nutritious meal after a long day. Let’s gather around the table and enjoy the warmth of togetherness, one delicious bite at a time!
Why is Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, smoky flavor: The homemade campfire seasoning elevates each bite, delivering a taste reminiscent of summer gatherings.
One-pot wonder: Cooking everything in the slow cooker means fewer dishes to clean afterward—who doesn’t love that?
Nutrient-packed: With 35 grams of protein per serving, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
Versatile base: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or even different cuts of meat for a personalized touch!
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of tender beef, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes makes it a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy this delightful dish and check out our tips for making it even more amazing!
Ingredients for Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes
• For the Beef Base
- Beef Stew Meat – the main protein source; chuck, bottom round, or sirloin tip cuts work best for tenderness.
- Beef Broth or Water – ensures moisture in the slow cooker while the beef cooks.
• For the Vegetables
- Mini Potatoes – these provide heartiness; cut them in half if they are larger for even cooking.
- Corn on the Cob – adds a natural sweetness; cut into manageable chunks for easy serving.
- Cherry Tomatoes – for a burst of juiciness and flavor; include five tomatoes in each foil packet.
- Red Onion (optional) – adds depth to the flavor profile; cut into wedges for a hearty addition in the packets.
• For the Campfire Seasoning
- Smoked Paprika – imparts that smoky essence we love in campfire meals.
- Garlic Powder – adds savory depth to the overall flavor.
- Onion Powder – enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
- Kosher Salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper – adds a subtle heat that complements the other ingredients.
- Chili Powder – for a touch of spice, balancing the dish perfectly.
- Sugar – helps to balance the flavors and mellow any acidity.
Get ready to indulge in this hearty Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes that’s sure to bring comfort to your dining table!
How to Make Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes
Make Seasoning: In a bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, and sugar until well combined. This will create a flavorful campfire seasoning mix.
Prepare Beef: Layer the beef stew meat in your slow cooker. Season it generously with the homemade campfire seasoning, and then pour in beef broth or water to maintain moisture throughout the cooking process.
Season Vegetables: In a separate bowl, mix the halved mini potatoes, cherry tomatoes, corn chunks, and optional red onion with a drizzle of olive oil and some of the remaining seasoning. This ensures every veggie is coated in that delicious smoky flavor.
Assemble Foil Packets: Cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Divide the seasoned vegetables evenly among the packets and fold them tightly, sealing all the edges to lock in flavors.
Cook: Place the foil packets on top of the seasoned beef in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, noting that cooking on LOW yields more tender beef.
Serve in Foil: Carefully open the packets (be cautious of steam) and serve the contents on plates, drizzling them with some of the savory juices from the slow cooker.
Optional: Top with freshly chopped herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes?
Gather your family around the table and complete your meal with these delightful pairings that enhance every bite of savory goodness.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from your dish and adds a satisfying crunch.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad brings crisp textures and vibrant flavors, balancing the hearty richness of the beef and veggies.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for extra color, nutrients, and a sweet, caramelized flavor.
Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the warm, tender meat and enhances the meal with a refreshing element.
Quinoa: Serve over a bed of quinoa for a fiber-rich, nutritious foundation that complements the protein-packed beef without overpowering it.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy, herb-infused rice adds a comforting layer of flavor and texture, making it a warm side that everyone will love.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink choice to cleanse the palate and keep the dining experience light and enjoyable.
Chocolate Dessert: Finish with a light chocolate mousse for a sweet conclusion that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy nights! You can assemble the foil packets with the seasoned vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. To maintain quality, tightly seal each packet to lock in flavors and prevent oxidation that can lead to browning. On the day you plan to enjoy this hearty meal, simply layer the beef in the slow cooker, add the broth, and place the chilled foil packets on top. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours for tender results, and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful, hassle-free dinner that brings everyone together.
Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes
Feel free to personalize your dish with these simple swaps and additions that will make each bite even more delightful!
Steak Swap: Substitute beef stew meat with your favorite steak cuts for a different texture and flavor experience.
Butternut Squash: Replace potatoes with butternut squash for a lower-carb option that adds a hint of sweetness.
Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Mix in additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for extra vibrant colors and nutrients.
Creamy Finish: Drizzle a bit of your favorite cream or cheese sauce over the top just before serving for a rich and comforting twist.
Different Proteins: Try substituting chicken or turkey for a lighter version—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix for even more campfire-like smokiness in every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing for best results.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a pot on low until warmed through, ensuring the meat stays tender and flavorful.
Make-Ahead: For convenience, you can prep and assemble foil packets a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Simply cook when you’re ready for a delicious meal!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Campfire Beef
• Prep Ahead: Prepare the seasoning the night before to ensure flavors meld beautifully and save time on cooking day.
• Low and Slow: Cooking on LOW is key for tender beef—don’t rush it unless you’re in a hurry! HIGH cooking may toughen the meat.
• Veggie Variations: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color, nutrients, and taste in your Crockpot Campfire Beef.
• Avoiding Mushiness: Be cautious not to overcook on HIGH to maintain the ideal texture of potatoes—keep an eye on those foil packets!
• Serving Ideas: Serve with crusty bread or over quinoa to maximize fiber and nutrients, making this a complete meal that everyone will love.
Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting beef stew meat?
Absolutely! When choosing beef stew meat, I recommend looking for cuts like chuck, bottom round, or sirloin tip, as these are tender and flavorful. Avoid any meat that has dark spots or looks slimy. Fresh beef should have a bright red color without excessive fat.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of beef broth while reheating can help keep the dish moist.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, you can freeze Crockpot Campfire Beef for up to 3 months! Pack it in individual portions using heavy-duty freezer bags; be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For best results, label the bags with the date.
What if my beef isn’t tender after cooking?
If your beef turns out tough, it may have been cooked on HIGH too long. To avoid this, stick to cooking on LOW for 8 hours. If you’ve already cooked it and find it isn’t tender, try adding a splash of broth and simmering it gently on the stove to tenderize the meat further.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This dish is family-friendly and high in protein, making it a great meal for everyone. However, if anyone has a beef allergy or is following a vegetarian diet, you can substitute the beef with hearty veggies or plant-based proteins like tofu for a delicious alternative.
Can I make the seasoning ahead of time?
I often recommend pre-making the seasoning mix! Store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. That way, when you’re ready to cook, you just need to grab it and go for a quicker meal prep!
Hearty Crockpot Campfire Beef with Potatoes, Corn & Tomatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, and sugar until well combined.
- Layer the beef stew meat in your slow cooker. Season it generously with the homemade campfire seasoning, and then pour in beef broth or water.
- In a separate bowl, mix the halved mini potatoes, cherry tomatoes, corn chunks, and optional red onion with a drizzle of olive oil and some of the remaining seasoning.
- Cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Divide the seasoned vegetables evenly among the packets and fold them tightly.
- Place the foil packets on top of the seasoned beef in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours.
- Carefully open the packets and serve the contents on plates, drizzling them with some of the savory juices from the slow cooker.
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