There’s something special about cooking over an open fire – the smoky air, the glowing embers, and the way simple ingredients turn into unforgettable meals. If you’re looking for a campfire recipe that stands out from the usual foil packs and s’mores, Cowboy Stuffed Apples are it. This rustic dish brings together smoky bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and the natural sweetness of apples for a flavor combination that’s both surprising and comforting.
Cowboy Stuffed Apples: A Rustic Campfire Twist on Classic Flavors
Imagine crisp apples hollowed out and wrapped in bacon, then filled with cheddar, onions, and a drizzle of honey. As they roast in a cast iron skillet over the fire, the bacon crisps up, the apples soften into tender shells, and the cheese filling bubbles into a savory-sweet dip. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and down-to-earth – perfect for sharing around the fire.
If you love the tradition of cowboy cooking and rustic campfire meals, this recipe is a modern twist that blends classic flavors with a touch of comfort.
Cowboy Stuffed Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact to create a pocket.
- Wrap each apple with 2–3 slices of bacon, tucking ends underneath.
- In a small bowl, mix the cheddar, onions, honey, pepper, and paprika. Stuff the mixture into each apple cavity.
- Place the apples upright in a cast iron skillet. Use small balls of foil to keep them steady if needed.
- Cover the skillet loosely with foil and set it on a campfire grate or grill over low, hot coals.
- Cook for 20–25 minutes, until apples are tender, bacon is crisp, and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Stuffed Apples aren’t just food – they’re an experience. The smoky, sweet, and savory mix is unlike anything you’ve had before, and it’s guaranteed to be the recipe everyone talks about long after the fire burns down. Simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, this dish captures the spirit of outdoor cooking at its best.
If you’re planning a full campfire menu, pair these Cowboy Stuffed Apples with a hearty main course. Our Steak and Veggie Foil Packet Meals are the perfect companion – simple to prepare, easy to cook over the fire, and loaded with flavor.
FAQ
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape during cooking and balance the smoky bacon and cheese with just the right amount of sweetness.
Yes! You can bake them in a regular oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the apples are tender and the bacon is crisp.
hey pair perfectly with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for scooping. You can also slice them in half and serve alongside grilled meats for a hearty campfire meal.
You can prep the apples by coring and stuffing them earlier in the day, then wrap in foil or refrigerate until ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.
This recipe leans savory with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and green onions, but the apples and honey add a subtle sweet note. It’s a rustic balance of both, making it unique compared to traditional baked apples.