How to Cook Great Meals in an RV Kitchen
Cooking in an RV is all about making the most of your space and using simple ingredients that are easy to store and prepare. Whether you have a small kitchen with a stovetop and microwave, or you rely on an outdoor grill, the key to RV cooking is keeping it simple and efficient. With the right tools and a few go-to recipes, you can create meals that are just as delicious as those made in a full-sized kitchen.
1. Stick to Simple, One-Pot Meals
One-pot meals are a lifesaver for RVers because they require minimal ingredients, cooking tools, and clean-up. You can prepare these meals using a stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, making them perfect for a variety of RV kitchen setups.
Here are a few one-pot RV recipes to try:
One-Pot Chili
Chili is a perfect dish for RV living—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. All you need is ground meat, beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and chili seasoning. Brown the meat, toss everything into one pot, and let it simmer for a satisfying meal.
For an easy chili recipe, check out AllRecipes:
One-Pot Pasta
Another easy one-pot dish is pasta. Cook your pasta in the same pot with your sauce, vegetables, and protein. This method saves time and space, and the result is a delicious, creamy dish without a pile of dirty dishes to clean.
For a simple one-pot pasta recipe, try this from Damn Delicious:
2. Use the Grill for Outdoor Cooking
If your RV kitchen feels too cramped, take your cooking outside! A portable grill is an RVing essential and allows you to cook delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors. Grilling is also great for minimizing clean-up since everything is cooked outside on the grill.
Grilled Foil Packets
Foil packets are perfect for RV grilling. Simply wrap your choice of protein (chicken, fish, or steak) along with vegetables in aluminum foil, season with herbs and spices, and grill until everything is cooked through. The best part? There’s almost no clean-up!
For easy foil packet ideas, check out The Kitchn:
Grilled Kabobs
Kabobs are fun, easy, and customizable. Skewer your favorite meat, vegetables, and even fruit, season with your favorite marinades or spices, and grill until perfectly cooked. Serve with a side of rice or salad, and you’ve got a tasty, healthy RV meal.
For great kabob recipes, visit Food Network:
3. Quick Breakfasts: Fuel Your Day on the Road
Mornings in the RV can be busy, especially when you’re getting ready to hit the road or embark on a new adventure. Quick and easy breakfasts are essential for staying energized, and you can make them with minimal effort.
Breakfast Burritos
Make-ahead breakfast burritos are perfect for RV life. Scramble eggs with your choice of fillings like cheese, sausage, or vegetables, then wrap them in tortillas. You can make a batch and freeze them, reheating in the microwave when you need a fast breakfast.
For a simple recipe, visit Taste of Home:
Overnight Oats
If you don’t want to deal with cooking breakfast in the morning, overnight oats are a great solution. Combine oats, milk, yogurt, and your favorite toppings in a jar, refrigerate overnight, and enjoy a quick and healthy breakfast the next day.
For a variety of overnight oats ideas, check out Minimalist Baker:
4. Try Easy RV-Friendly Snacks
RV travel often means long drives, hikes, or spending the day exploring. Packing easy, healthy snacks is a great way to stay fueled without relying on gas station junk food.
Trail Mix
Make your own trail mix by combining your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a touch of dark chocolate for an energizing snack on the go. Store in resealable bags for easy access during your adventures.
Energy Bites
No-bake energy bites are a simple and healthy snack that can be made ahead and stored in your RV fridge. Combine oats, peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips for a bite-sized snack that’s perfect for hiking or road trips.
For a quick energy bite recipe, visit Gimme Some Oven:
5. Don’t Forget Dessert!
No RV trip is complete without a little something sweet. Even with limited space and tools, you can whip up a tasty dessert that everyone will love.
S’mores Dip
When you’re not in the mood to build a campfire, you can still enjoy the classic taste of s’mores by making s’mores dip. Layer chocolate and marshmallows in an oven-safe dish, heat until melty, and serve with graham crackers for dipping.
For the recipe, visit Delish:
Skillet Cookies
If you’re craving something warm and gooey, try baking a cookie in your RV’s skillet. With just a few ingredients, you can make a giant cookie that’s perfect for sharing. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream on top!
For a skillet cookie recipe, check out Bon Appétit:
Final Thoughts
Cooking delicious meals in your RV doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With these must-try RV recipes, you can make the most of your limited space while still enjoying flavorful and satisfying meals. From one-pot dishes and easy grill recipes to quick breakfasts and snacks, there’s something for every RV traveler to enjoy. Plus, with minimal clean-up, you’ll have more time to relax and explore your surroundings.
Happy cooking and safe travels!