When you’re planning a backpacking trip, one of the most important things to consider is your food. You’ll need meals that are lightweight, nutritious, and easy to prepare in the great outdoors. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of 18 easy backpacking meal recipes that are perfect for your next adventure. From hearty stews and soups to energy-boosting wraps and bars, these meals are designed to keep you fueled and satisfied on the trail. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal equipment or preparation.
So whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become your new favorite companions on the trail.
Dehydrated Beef and Vegetable Stew
A hearty, flavorful stew perfect for camping or outdoor adventures, this recipe uses dehydrated ingredients to create a lightweight and nutritious meal. With its rich beef broth and tender vegetables, this stew is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dehydrated beef strips
– 1 cup mixed dehydrated vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and peas)
– 2 cups beef broth powder
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the dehydrated beef strips, mixed vegetables, and beef broth powder.
2. Add enough water to rehydrate the ingredients (about 4 cups).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the stew reaches your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Instant Mashed Potatoes with Bacon Bits
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple recipe that combines the convenience of instant mashed potatoes with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon bits. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant mashed potatoes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk (or half-and-half)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the water according to the instant potato package instructions.
2. Add the butter, salt, and pepper to the boiling water and stir until melted.
3. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. When the potatoes are tender, drain excess water and add the crumbled bacon bits.
5. Stir well to combine and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Wrap
A classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana wrapped in a soft tortilla makes for a satisfying snack or quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread one half of the tortilla with the peanut butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the sliced banana on top of the peanut butter.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional minute, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
One-Pot Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf recipe combines the comforting flavors of lentils, rice, and aromatic spices in a single pot. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, rice, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 35-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Trail Mix Granola Bars
These no-bake granola bars are packed with the flavors of trail mix, making them a perfect snack for hikers, campers, or anyone looking for a healthy and tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together honey and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in cranberries and chocolate chips.
5. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is no-bake!
Freeze-Dried Chicken and Dumplings
Enjoy a comforting and convenient meal with our freeze-dried chicken and dumplings recipe. This recipe combines tender chicken with soft, fluffy dumplings for a satisfying and easy-to-prepare meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freeze-dried chicken
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried parsley
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 dumpling mix packets (found in the same packaging as the freeze-dried chicken)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil.
2. Add flour, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Gradually add the freeze-dried chicken, stirring constantly.
4. Follow the package instructions for rehydrating the dumpling mix. Typically, this involves adding hot water and stirring until fluffy.
5. Combine the rehydrated dumplings with the chicken mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ramen Noodles with Tuna and Veggies
Transform a simple bowl of ramen noodles into a satisfying meal with the addition of canned tuna and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Ramen Noodles
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g. bean sprouts, bok choy, sliced carrots)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ramen Noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the flaked tuna to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to combine with the tuna and vegetable mixture.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions or green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oatmeal with Dried Fruit and Nuts
Start your day off right with this hearty oatmeal recipe, packed with the natural sweetness of dried fruit and crunch from toasted nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
3. If using honey or maple syrup, stir it in once the oats are cooked.
4. Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional nuts or fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This hearty quinoa and black bean salad is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With its mix of protein-rich quinoa, fiber-filled black beans, and crunchy veggies, it’s a great way to fuel your body.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Couscous
Elevate your meal with this creamy and aromatic couscous dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish. This recipe combines the simplicity of cooking couscous with the richness of melted cheese and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off the heat.
2. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is fluffy.
3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and mix in the cheesy garlic mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles
A flavorful fusion of spicy and savory, this recipe combines the richness of peanuts with the heat of chili flakes to create a mouth-watering noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 200g noodles (such as rice noodles or udon)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked noodles to the saucepan and toss until well coated with the peanut sauce.
5. Sprinkle chopped peanuts and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dehydrated Chili Mac
Dehydrated Chili Mac: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe takes the classic comfort food of chili mac and gives it a unique twist by dehydrating it. The result is a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup canned chili (drained)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat dehydrator to 135°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together macaroni, chili, cheese, and onion until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto the dehydrator trays lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Once dehydrated, break into smaller pieces and enjoy as a crunchy snack.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Tuna Salad Wraps
Combine the flavors of tuna, mayonnaise, and spices with the convenience of a wrap for a satisfying snack. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or as an after-school treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp of mayonnaise
– 1 tsp of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla (or 2 small ones)
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, and onion until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay the tortilla flat and spoon the tuna salad mixture onto one half of the wrap.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using) on top of the tuna salad.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Backpacker’s Breakfast Scramble
A hearty, protein-packed breakfast that’s perfect for fueling up on the go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup scrambled eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), sliced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Pour in the scrambled eggs and stir to combine with the bell peppers.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are set.
6. Add the cooked sausage and shredded cheese; stir until melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pita Bread with Hummus and Jerky
Savor the combination of warm pita bread, creamy hummus, and spicy jerky for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Jerky (store-bought or homemade, any flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into 2-3 pita breads.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with hummus and jerky.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Coconut Curry Rice
This flavorful rice dish combines the warmth of curry powder with the creaminess of coconut milk, perfect for a comforting and aromatic side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, salt to taste, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir until the mixture is creamy and heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack. Packed with rolled oats, crunchy apple, and warm cinnamon, they’ll provide a natural energy boost to keep you going.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, apples, and cinnamon.
2. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy bites are ready to go after chilling.
Instant Soup with Crackers
Looking for a comforting snack that’s ready in no time? This recipe combines the convenience of instant soup with the crunch of crackers, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of instant chicken or vegetable soup mix
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of butter (optional)
– 6-8 crackers (your preferred type and quantity)
Instructions:
1. Boil the water in a pot, then add the instant soup mix. Stir well to combine.
2. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Add butter if desired, stirring until melted.
4. Serve the hot soup with crackers on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your backpacking adventure with these easy and delicious meal recipes! From hearty stews to satisfying wraps, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Try dehydrated beef and vegetable stew, instant mashed potatoes with bacon bits, or peanut butter and banana wrap. For a one-pot wonder, whip up lentil and rice pilaf or quinoa and black bean salad. And don’t forget the sweet treats – trail mix granola bars, apple cinnamon energy bites, and more! These recipes are perfect for backpackers of all levels, with options that are lightweight, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor.
