23 Tips and Tricks To Simplify Your RV Meal Prep and Cooking
When you’re on the road in your RV, meal prep can be a challenge. Limited counter space, minimal appliances, and the need to conserve water and propane while dry camping can make cooking a bit tricky. But with a little bit of creativity and some RV kitchen hacks, you can whip up delicious and easy meals that will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout your travels.
In this article, we will explore 23 RV kitchen hacks that will make cooking on the road a breeze. From space-saving tools to pre-made mixes and ingredients, these hacks will help you create easy and delicious meals on the road, no matter where your adventures take you.
#1 Plan your meals ahead of time.
Preparing a meal plan before your trip and creating a shopping list of all the ingredients you need will help you avoid buying unnecessary items and ensure that you have everything you need to make delicious meals. It’s important to consider the type of meals you want to make and the ingredients that are easy to find while on the road. For example, canned goods, dry pasta, and frozen vegetables can be great staples to include in your meal plan.
#2 Invest in multi-purpose RV kitchen tools.
Space is limited in an RV kitchen, so it’s important to invest in multi-purpose kitchen tools that can be used to make a variety of dishes. A slow cooker, pressure cooker, and immersion blender are all versatile tools that can save you time and effort. You can use a slow cooker to make stews, soups, and even desserts. A pressure cooker can cook meals quickly and save you energy. An immersion blender can be used to puree soups, sauces, and smoothies.
#3 Use pre-made mixes and ingredients.
Pre-made mixes and ingredients can save you time and effort while on the road. Pancake mix, instant oatmeal, and pre-cut vegetables can be a lifesaver, while pre-made sauces like marinara or Alfredo sauce can add flavor to your meals. You can also make your own spice blends at home and bring them along for easy seasoning.
#4 Make use of RV park amenities.
Many RV parks have amenities that can make cooking on the road easier. Some parks have outdoor grills, picnic tables, and even community kitchens that you can utilize. These amenities can be a great way to expand your cooking options and make your cooking experience more enjoyable. You can also plan to visit local farmers’ markets to pick up fresh produce and unique ingredients to add to your meals.
#5 Store food efficiently in your RV kitchen.
Storage space is limited in an RV kitchen, so it’s important to store your food efficiently. Use stackable containers, such as clear plastic bins, to save space and keep your food organized. Clear containers make it easy to identify what’s inside too. Airtight containers keep your food fresh for longer periods of time. To save even more space, consider vacuum sealing your food before storing it.
#6 Get creative with your meals.
RV kitchen hacks are all about getting creative with your meals. Use leftovers to create new dishes, like turning leftover chicken into a chicken salad or using leftover rice to make a stir-fry. Experiment with new recipes and ingredients to create unique and delicious meals.
#7 Replace parchment paper or foil.
Replace parchment paper or foil with silicone baking mats in your RV kitchen. These mats are reusable, non-stick, and easy to clean, making them a more eco-friendly and efficient option for baking and cooking. Plus, they can save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for disposable parchment paper or foil.
#8 Opt for collapsible RV kitchen accessories.
To save space in your RV kitchen, consider using collapsible kitchen tools such as a colander and strainer, measuring cups and spoons, and food containers. A collapsible bucket is also useful for doing dishes or washing clothes. These handy tools can be easily stored away when not in use, freeing up valuable counter and storage space.
#9 Avoid grease splatters in your RV kitchen.
Make cleaning up easier by cooking bacon in the oven. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil (or even better silicon baking mat) and place the bacon on top. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
#10 Invest in a quality cutting board that fits in your RV sink for easy cleanup.
A cutting board with a built-in colander can save you time and space when washing vegetables and fruits.
#11 Simplify your morning routine and save space with a French press.
A French press is easy to use, and it doesn’t require any electricity or filters. Simply add coffee grounds and hot water, let it steep for a few minutes, and then press down the plunger to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee.
#12 Use a portable induction cooktop for energy efficiency.
Induction cooktops heat up faster, use less energy than traditional stovetops, and can be stored away when not in use. Just make sure to use cookware that is compatible with induction cooking.
#13 Make one-pot meals that require fewer dishes to wash.
One-pot meals like chili or spaghetti are perfect for RV cooking because they require less cleanup and can be made with a variety of ingredients.
#14 Avoid scrubbing a dirty slow cooker. Use a slow cooker liner.
A slow cooker liner can save you time and effort when cleaning up after a meal. Simply remove the liner and dispose of it, and you’re done!
#15 Cook with cast iron skillets and pots that can be used on the stovetop or in the oven.
Cast iron is a durable and versatile material that can be used to cook a variety of dishes. It’s also easy to clean cast iron cookware, and it can last a lifetime with proper care.
#16 Use a muffin tin to make individual servings of quiche or frittatas.
Muffin tin quiches are easy to make and can be customized with a variety of ingredients. They are also perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later.
#17 Make thin slices with a vegetable peeler.
A vegetable peeler can be used to slice cheese, cucumbers, and other vegetables into thin, uniform slices. It’s a versatile tool that can save you money by allowing you to slice your food items instead of buying pre-cut.
#18 Create a salad in a jar by layering dressing, vegetables, and toppings.
Mason jar salads are easy to make, and they can be customized to your taste preferences. They are also easy to transport and stay fresh for several days.
#19 Freeze meals ahead of time.
Preparing meals ahead of time and freezing them can save you time and space when cooking on the road. Simply defrost the meals when you’re ready to cook, and you’re good to go!
#20 Keep your RV kitchen knives organized with a magnetic knife strip.
A magnetic knife strip can be mounted on the wall and used to store your knives within easy reach. It’s also a great way to save counter and drawer space in your RV kitchen.
#21 Create a healthy and portable snack with homemade trail mix and granola.
Trail mix and granola are easy to make and can be customized to your taste preferences. They are also a great snack option for when you’re on the go.
#22 Save space with a roll-up dish rack.
A roll-up dish rack can be easily stored away when not in use, saving you valuable counter space. Use it to dry dishes or as a cooling rack for food.
#23 Cook vegetables and fish quickly and easily with a steamer basket.
A steamer basket is a great way to cook vegetables and fish without using oil. Simply add water to a pot, place the steamer basket on top, and add your vegetables or fish. Cover the pot and steam for a few minutes until the food is cooked to your liking.
Cooking in an RV kitchen can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By using the RV kitchen hacks we’ve shared, you’ll be able to create delicious and healthy meals while traveling in your RV.
But we’re not done yet!
We want to hear from you. What other RV kitchen hacks do you use while on the road?
Maybe you have a favorite recipe or kitchen tool that has made cooking in your RV easier and more enjoyable. Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! Let’s help each other create delicious and healthy meals while traveling in our RVs.
Happy cooking and safe travels!
