Heading into the great outdoors? Packing a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare can make all the difference on your adventure. Whether you’re trekking through the wilderness or summiting a mountain, knowing what to bring and how to cook it can be a game-changer. That’s why we’ve put together 20 easy backpacking meal recipes that are perfect for any adventurer.
From hearty stews and one-pot meals to trail mix granola and peanut butter wraps, these recipes are designed to fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds on the go. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, even for those who don’t consider themselves expert cooks. So grab a pot, fire up your camp stove, and get ready to feast in the wilderness!
Dehydrated Beef and Vegetable Stew
Dehydrated Beef and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Summary:
This hearty stew is perfect for a cold winter’s day, with tender beef and flavorful vegetables all in one delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dehydrated beef strips (reconstituted)
– 2 cups mixed dehydrated vegetables (such as carrots, peas, corn, and green beans)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Reconstitute the dehydrated beef by soaking it in warm water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the reconstituted beef, mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the flavors have melded together and the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 1-2 hours
Instant Mashed Potatoes with Bacon Bits
Elevate the classic mashed potato dish by adding crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant mashed potatoes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water for the instant mashed potatoes to a boil.
2. Add the contents of the potato package and stir until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf
Transform a simple meal into a nutritious and flavorful dish with this easy-to-make One-Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf recipe. This hearty pilaf combines the natural sweetness of lentils with the comforting warmth of rice, all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add rinsed lentils, cooked rice, and vegetable broth to the pot.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Freeze-Dried Chicken Curry with Rice
This recipe brings together the warmth of Indian spices and the convenience of freeze-drying, creating a hearty and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed at any time. With its tender chicken, aromatic curry sauce, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or broth as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, then set aside.
4. Combine cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small bowl.
5. Stir spices into the pan with the onion mixture.
6. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
8. Combine cooked chicken, rice, and curry sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes (including rice cooking time)
Trail Mix Granola with Dried Fruit
A sweet and crunchy granola perfect for snacking on-the-go or adding to your favorite trail mix blend.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, oil, and vanilla extract. Pour mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spread granola mixture onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Stir in dried fruit and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap
Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap Recipe
A classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana, wrapped up in a soft tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or granola for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread one half of the tortilla with the peanut butter, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Arrange the sliced banana on top of the peanut butter.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Optional: drizzle with honey or sprinkle with granola for added flavor and texture)
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Note: This recipe is best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This quinoa and black bean salad is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of protein-rich quinoa, fiber-packed black beans, and crunchy veggies makes for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, red bell pepper, onion, and jalapeño.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ramen Noodles with Tuna and Veggies
Transform a simple packet of ramen noodles into a satisfying meal with the addition of tuna and vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the flaked tuna to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, along with soy sauce to taste. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oatmeal with Nuts and Honey
Start your day off right with this simple and satisfying oatmeal recipe, packed with the sweetness of honey and crunch of nuts. This classic breakfast dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Add the chopped nuts and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Couscous with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the traditional North African dish couscous with the sweet and tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped parsley and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Pour the tomato mixture over the couscous and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate and Nut Energy Bars
A delicious and healthy snack perfect for on-the-go! These chewy bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, rich chocolate flavor, and a satisfying crunch from the nuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and chocolate chips.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dehydrated Chili Mac and Cheese
This dehydrated recipe is a clever twist on the classic comfort food, chili mac and cheese. With just a few simple rehydration steps, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and warm meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dehydrated chili mac and cheese mix
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the dehydrated chili mac and cheese mix and 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture has rehydrated to your desired consistency.
3. Add olive oil and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tortilla Pizza with Pepperoni
Discover a twist on traditional pizza with this crispy tortilla topped with savory pepperoni and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place a tortilla on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tortilla and sprinkle with salt.
4. Top with sliced pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to form a triangle or simply leave it flat.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Tortilla Pizza with Pepperoni!
Spicy Peanut Noodles
Add a kick of spice and creamy peanut flavor to your noodles with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped peanuts or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, chili flakes, and water. Whisk until smooth over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Pour the peanut sauce over cooked noodles and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Grits
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, cheesy, and garlicky twist on traditional grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
2. Stir in the butter until melted. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Trailside Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful pancakes, perfect for a camping trip or a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef Jerky and Cheese Quesadilla
Elevate your snack game with this savory and satisfying quesadilla filled with tender beef jerky and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked beef jerky, chopped
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the beef jerky and cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Backpacker’s Pad Thai
A quick and easy recipe for a flavorful Pad Thai that’s perfect for backpackers on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or tofu; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Pour into the wok and stir to combine.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Add to the wok and stir to combine with the Pad Thai mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a delicious and comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a hearty serving of oats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup diced apple (about 1 medium-sized apple)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the diced apple and salt.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pasta with Pesto and Parmesan
A classic Italian dish that combines the creamy richness of pesto sauce with the salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the pesto in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add the warmed pesto and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your next backpacking adventure with these easy and delicious meal recipes! From hearty stews and curries to quick energy-boosters like peanut butter and banana wraps, there’s something for every taste. Try dehydrated beef and vegetable stew, instant mashed potatoes with bacon bits, or one-pot lentil and rice pilaf for a satisfying meal on the trail. Or, mix it up with quinoa and black bean salad, ramen noodles with tuna and veggies, or cheesy garlic grits. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite and keep you going all day long.
