One of the joys of RV living is the opportunity to enjoy delicious meals without the hassle of eating out or relying on expensive takeout. With limited space and equipment in your RV kitchen, it’s important to have recipes that are simple, quick, and require minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire, using your stovetop, or working with an Instant Pot, these five camping recipes are perfect for fueling your adventures.
1. Campfire Foil Packets
Foil packets are a camping classic for good reason: they’re versatile, mess-free, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- Protein: Chicken breast, shrimp, or sausage
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and baby potatoes
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices
Instructions:
- Cut your protein and vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss them in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder or paprika.
- Divide the mixture evenly among foil sheets, seal them tightly, and place over the campfire or on a grill.
- Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the protein is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
The best part? Everyone can customize their packet with their favorite ingredients.
2. One-Pot Chili
Nothing beats a warm bowl of chili after a long day of exploring. This recipe is easy to make and even easier to clean up.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the diced onion until translucent.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and spices. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips for a hearty, satisfying meal.
3. Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that you can make ahead and reheat when needed.
Ingredients:
- Eggs (6-8)
- Cooked bacon, sausage, or chorizo
- Shredded cheese
- Diced bell peppers and onions
- Flour tortillas
Instructions:
- Scramble the eggs and sauté the bell peppers and onions in a skillet.
- Warm the tortillas on a stovetop or griddle.
- Assemble the burritos by layering the eggs, veggies, meat, and cheese on each tortilla.
- Roll them tightly and wrap in foil.
Make these in advance and reheat over the campfire or in your RV microwave for a quick, grab-and-go breakfast.
4. S’mores Dip
Dessert doesn’t have to be complicated when camping. S’mores dip is a crowd-pleaser that brings the campfire classic to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- Graham crackers for dipping
Instructions:
- In a cast-iron skillet, spread the chocolate chips evenly.
- Top with mini marshmallows.
- Place the skillet over low heat on the campfire or stovetop until the chocolate is melted and marshmallows are golden brown.
- Serve with graham crackers for dipping.
It’s a fun, sharable dessert that’s perfect for any camping trip.
5. Skillet Cornbread
Cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soup, or as a standalone snack. This easy skillet recipe is ideal for camping.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Tip: For a spicy version, add a few TBSPs of the juice from pickled jalapenos and top with the slices
Instructions:
- Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine them to form a smooth batter.
- Grease a cast-iron skillet with butter and pour in the batter.
- Cook over low heat on the campfire or RV stovetop, covering the skillet with foil or a lid.
- Check after 20-25 minutes to ensure the cornbread is cooked through and golden brown.
Enjoy it warm with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Made Easy in Your RV
RV kitchens may be small, but with a little creativity and planning, you can whip up meals that are as delicious as those from a traditional home kitchen. These five recipes are perfect for busy adventurers who want to enjoy good food without spending hours in preparation or cleanup.
Next time you’re planning an RV trip, try these recipes and bring the comforts of home cooking to the great outdoors. Do you have a favorite RV-friendly recipe? Share it with us in the comments below!