Fall is one of the best times of year for RVers—cooler weather, vibrant foliage, and the perfect atmosphere for a warm home-cooked meal! If you're ready to embrace the season in your RV kitchen, here's your guide to fall RV cooking. We'll cover easy recipes, cozy decorating ideas, essential cooking tips, and even some outdoor cooking inspiration to make the most of your autumn adventures!
3 Fall-Inspired RV Recipes
One-Pot Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients: 1 lb. Ground turkey or beef, 1 15oz. Can black beans, 1 15oz. Can diced tomatoes, 1 15oz. Can pumpkin puree, 1 yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 Tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp Salt, 1/4 tsp pepper.
Instructions: In a large pot, brown the meat with onions and garlic until cooked through. Add the tomatoes, beans, pumpkin puree, and spices. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Top with shredded cheese or sour cream if desired. This one-pot wonder is hearty and filling and celebrates the flavors of fall!
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Ingredients: 1 lb. Bread, 8 large eggs, 2 cups (480ml) milk, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 cup sugar, 3 cups (2 large apples) apples (peeled and diced), 2 tsp vanilla extract.
Instructions: In a greased baking dish, layer pieces of bread. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla, then pour the mixture over the bread. Sprinkle diced apples on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Perfect for a cozy morning breakfast!
Turkey & Stuffing Casserole
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or cubed; rotisserie chicken works great, too), 1 box stuffing mix, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, 1 cup chicken or turkey broth, 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans), ½ cup dried cranberries (optional), Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
Instructions: Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions and set aside. Mix the cooked turkey, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, frozen veggies, cranberries (if using), and seasoning in a greased RV-safe baking dish or casserole pan. Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the turkey mixture. Preheat your RV oven (or toaster oven) to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes. Serve in a bowl complete with flavors of the season!
Decorating for Fall in Your RV
- Fall Foliage Garlands: Use artificial fall leaves, acorns, cranberries, or pinecones to create garlands that you can drape over cabinets, windows, or the dining area. It's a perfect way to bring in fall colors without taking up much space.
- Pumpkin Decor: Mini pumpkins are perfect for adding a seasonal touch to small spaces. Place them on countertops, tables, or even by the entryway to add a festive feel. If you want to avoid attracting unwanted critters, opt for faux pumpkins.
- Battery-Powered Candles & Warmers: For a safe, fire-free option, use battery-operated candles to create a warm, inviting glow. Choose cinnamon or pumpkin-scented ones for that extra autumn aroma. Use candle warmers with all your favorite fall scents for a more fragrant feel.
Essential RV Cooking Tips
- Prep in Advance: Chop vegetables, marinate meat, or mix spices before hitting the road. Prepping ingredients beforehand saves space and time, making meal prep a time saver.
- One-Pot or One-Pan Meals: Stick to recipes that require only one pot or pan. This reduces cleanup and allows you to make a hearty meal without needing a full-sized kitchen.
- Use Collapsible Cookware: Space is at a premium in an RV, so opt for collapsible mixing bowls, colanders, and measuring cups. They save space without sacrificing functionality.
- Get Creative with Storage: Hanging organizers and stackable containers maximize your cabinet and counter space, making it easier to keep your kitchen organized.
- Embrace the Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: These are RV kitchen lifesavers! They allow you to set it and forget it, giving you more time to enjoy your travels without the stress of constantly checking the stove.
Outdoor Cooking Tips
- Portable Grill: A compact, portable grill is ideal for RV living. Use it to make everything from burgers to roasted vegetables and enjoy the luxury of having a hot cooked meal out in nature.
- Foil Packet Meals: Foil packets let you cook entire meals without pots or pans, perfect for the fire pit or grill. Combine your favorite fall ingredients like sweet potatoes, sausage, and apples, seal them in foil, and cook them over the flame. Easy to prepare and even easier to clean up!
- Dutch Oven Delights: While parked at a campsite with a fire ring, enjoy cooking with a Dutch oven for delightful meals like stews, casseroles, or even freshly baked bread. It's a wonderful and rustic experience that brings warmth and flavor to your outdoor adventure.
- Be Mindful of Wildlife: As this season brings increased animal activity, it's a great opportunity to ensure that food is stored properly and the area is cleaned thoroughly. This will help create a welcoming environment while preventing any unwanted visitors.
Embrace Fall with Optimum RV
With these cooking tips, recipes, and decor ideas, you're ready to embrace the fall season in your RV fully. Here's to a fantastic fall season on the road! Whether you're parked at a scenic spot surrounded by autumn foliage or cozied up by a campfire, these tips will make your RV experience unforgettable this season. Happy fall travels!