The open road beckons with the promise of adventure, discovery, and an escape from the daily grind. For many, the best way to answer that call is through the exhilarating experience of RV travel. With an RV or recreational vehicle, you can turn any route into a flexible and comfortable voyage, exploring the nooks and crannies of the world at your own pace.
One of the core joys of RV travel is the freedom it offers, not just in terms of where you can go but in what you can do once you’re there. Savoring meals is a highlight of any great travel experience. But in the wilderness or on the side of a desolate highway, the luxury of a full kitchen is not always at hand. RV cooking has become more than a necessity; it’s an art form that blends convenience, comfort, and creativity.
Engage your taste buds and learn how to master the open-road kitchen with these 10 delightful RV-friendly recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned RV traveler or getting ready to hit your first trail this summer, these dishes are designed to be a hit with the entire camping crew.
Quick and Easy Breakfast Ideas
RV Omelette-in-a-Bag
Start your day right with a classic breakfast that’s easy to clean up, thanks to a simple trick. All you need are a few eggs, cheese, and a selection of your favorite omelet fillings. Crack eggs into a large resealable freezer bag and mix in your toppings. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and drop it into a pot of boiling water for about 13 minutes. The heat will gently cook the eggs to perfection!
The ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- Cheese (shredded or sliced)
- Omelet toppings of your choice (such as chopped vegetables, meat, herbs, etc.)
Directions:
- Crack and beat eggs in a large resealable freezer bag.
- Mix in desired omelet fillings.
- Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully drop the bag into the boiling water and let it cook for about 13 minutes.
- Once done, carefully remove the bag from the pot and open it to reveal your perfectly cooked omelet-in-a-bag!
Campfire French Toast
Giving a sweet twist to a savory morning, this recipe is bound to please. Dip bread slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Cook them on a lightly greased griddle over medium heat, then serve with syrup and powdered sugar. It’s the perfect breakfast indulgence for lazy mornings at camp.
The ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Cinnamon (to taste)
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon.
- Dip each slice of bread in the mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Heat a lightly greased griddle over medium heat.
- Place the bread slices on the griddle and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with syrup and powdered sugar.
Simple Lunch Options
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with a Twist
A simple grilled cheese can be elevated with the addition of tomato, bacon, or a slice of havarti instead of standard American cheese. No need for a stove; your RV’s stovetop or even an electric skillet in your outdoor setup will do the trick. The secret to the perfect grilled cheese lies in patience, so golden brown and delicious will be your reward.
The ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread
- Butter or mayonnaise (for spreading)
- Cheese slices (of your choice)
- Optional: Sliced tomato, cooked bacon, Havarti cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the stovetop or electric skillet to medium heat.
- Spread butter/mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice, buttered side down, on the heated surface.
- Layer with cheese and any other toppings of your choice.
- Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
Another easy yet satisfying lunch option, these ham and cheese roll-ups can be made with just a few ingredients. Spread a tortilla with cream cheese, add deli ham slices and shredded cheese, then roll it up tightly. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a fun finger food lunch on the go.
The ingredients:
- 1 large tortilla
- Cream cheese
- Deli ham slices
- Shredded cheese
Directions:
- Spread cream cheese evenly on the tortilla.
- Layer with ham slices and shredded cheese.
- Roll up tightly, starting from one end to form a log.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve and enjoy!
Delicious Dinner Recipes
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
A good pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, and one-pot meals save on cleanup. In a large pot, combine pasta, broth, cream, and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. In 15 minutes, dinner will be ready with minimum fuss and mess.
The ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, etc.)
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine pasta, broth, cream, and vegetables.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Grilled Salmon Packets
This dish requires some aluminum foil to create individual serving packets filled with salmon, lemons, and herbs. Place the packets on a grill (or use your RV’s oven) for about 15 minutes. The result is a tasty, healthy meal with very little cleanup.
The ingredients:
- 4 salmon filets
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Lemon slices
- Fresh herbs (such as dill or thyme)
Directions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Season salmon filets with salt and pepper.
- Lay each filet on a large piece of aluminum foil.
- Place lemon slices and herbs on top of the filets.
- Fold up the sides of the foil to create a packet, leaving room for air to circulate inside.
- Grill or bake for about 15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Snacks and Treats
Trail Mix Bars
For a power-packed snack, combine your preferred trail mix ingredients with a binding syrup like honey. Press into a baking dish and refrigerate to set. Cut into bars and pack them up for a portable, energy-filled nosh that won’t crumble in your hand.
The ingredients:
- 2 cups of your favorite trail mix ingredients (such as nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips)
- 1/4 cup honey
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine trail mix ingredients.
- Heat honey in a small pan until it becomes runny.
- Pour honey over the trail mix and stir until everything is coated.
- Press mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour to set.
- Cut into bars and store in an airtight container for easy snacking on the go!
S’mores Dip
Who says you need a campfire to enjoy s’mores? This simple treat can be made on a stove or in the microwave. Melt chocolate chips and condensed milk together, then top with mini marshmallows and broil until golden brown. Dip graham crackers in for a gooey and delicious snack.
The ingredients:
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup condensed milk
- Mini marshmallows
- Graham crackers (for dipping)
Directions:
- In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove, melt chocolate chips and condensed milk together until smooth.
- Pour mixture into a small baking dish.
- Top with mini marshmallows.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely, until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Serve hot with graham crackers for dipping.
Beverages and Refreshments
Fresh Cranberry Vodka Lemonade
Indulge in a sophisticated drink that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Simply mix vodka with fresh lemonade and add a splash of cranberry juice. Serve over ice with a slice of lemon, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing cocktail to wind down after a long day of travel.
The ingredients:
- 1 shot of vodka
- Fresh lemonade
- Cranberry juice
Directions:
- In a glass filled with ice, pour one shot of vodka.
- Fill the rest of the glass with fresh lemonade.
- Add a splash of cranberry juice for color and flavor.
- Stir and garnish with a slice of lemon.
- Sip and enjoy!
Iced Chai Latte
For a caffeine boost that’s not too heavy, try making your own iced chai latte at home. Brew a strong cup of chai tea, mix in some milk (dairy or non-dairy), and sweeten to taste with honey or sugar. Pour over
Sunset Sangria
Capture the spirit of the open road with a fruity sangria. Combine red wine, brandy, and a medley of fresh fruits in a large pitcher. Refrigerate and allow the flavors to meld. When the sun begins to dip, pour yourself a glass and savor the sunset.
The ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/4 cup brandy
- Assorted fruits (such as oranges, apples, berries)
Directions:
- In a large pitcher, combine red wine and brandy.
- Add in chopped fruit.
- Stir to combine and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Serve over ice and enjoy the beautiful sunset with a refreshing sangria in hand.
Packing Tips and Kitchen Essentials
Packing for an RV trip is an exercise in efficiency and practicality. When it comes to the kitchen, you’ll want to keep things simple but comprehensive.
Of course, how much space you have will depend on the size of your RV. For example, a Class A motorhome is likely to have a larger kitchen than a small camper. While there are some kitchen upgrades you can make to your RV, it’s important to keep in mind that storage space will always be limited.
Here’s a rundown of essential tools and ingredients that can ensure you’re ready to whip up these recipes and more:
- Multipurpose Utensils: Choose tools that can serve multiple functions, such as a good chef’s knife, a sturdy mixing spoon, and tongs for grilling and serving.
- Non-Stick Cookware: In confined spaces, non-stick pans are invaluable. They make cooking and cleaning much more manageable.
- Canned and Preserved Foods: Keep a stock of canned goods like beans, tuna, and soups that can serve as bases for quick meals, as well as ingredients that won’t spoil easily.
- Herbs and Spices: A well-stocked spice rack can turn any basic dish into a gourmet marvel. Think beyond salt and pepper; pack garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and all your favorites.
- Cooking Basics: Olive, vegetable, and other cooking basics are must-haves. They’re versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes.
- Food Safety: A thermometer helps ensure meats are cooked to the proper temperature, and food storage containers keep leftovers safe to eat.
By preparing your RV kitchen with the essentials, you’ll find that cooking on the road can be just as enjoyable as dining out. Plus, it can be much easier on your travel budget.
Adventure Awaits… in the Kitchen and Beyond!
These recipes are not just about convenient eating; they’re about celebrating the rugged splendor of the great outdoors, the camaraderie of travel, and the joy of a well-deserved meal. With some preparation and the right mindset, you can satisfy your appetites and create unforgettable memories on your next RV adventure.
Don’t be afraid to tweak these recipes to your liking or to add your own. After all, the best part of any culinary adventure is making it your own. Happy travels and bon appétit!