How to Cook Holiday Feast in a Camper

The holidays are a time to come together and enjoy a hearty meal, even if you're hitting the road in an RV or camper. With limited space and appliances, cooking a full Thanksgiving feast can seem daunting, but with a little planning and the right tools, you can whip up a holiday meal that's as memorable as the destination.

1. Plan Your Menu

Start by simplifying your menu to include the Thanksgiving essentials. Focus on dishes that are flavorful but manageable in smaller portions and limited cooking spaces. Here’s a simple menu idea:

• Main Dish: Turkey breast or turkey tenderloin
• Sides: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce
• Dessert: Mini pumpkin or apple pies

2. Essential Tools for RV Cooking

When cooking in an RV or camper, space and utility are key. These tools can make your Thanksgiving prep a breeze:

• Compact Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: Perfect for cooking turkey breast, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
• Countertop Toaster Oven: Ideal for baking pies or casseroles.
• Collapsible Mixing Bowls: Save storage space while prepping ingredients.
• Portable Induction Cooktop: Provides an extra burner when you need it.

Check out this multi-cooker to make the most of your RV kitchen.

3. Cooking the Meal

Turkey

Roasting a whole turkey in an RV is often impractical, but turkey breast is a fantastic alternative. Season it with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and salt, and cook it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. The slow cooking method keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

Sides

• Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes on your stovetop or in an Instant Pot. Use a hand masher or electric mixer for creamy consistency.
• Stuffing: Use a boxed mix for simplicity, and bake it in your toaster oven or slow cooker for a crispy finish.
• Green Beans: Sauté fresh green beans in a skillet with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of almonds for a gourmet touch.

Cranberry Sauce

For a fresh take on the classic, simmer fresh cranberries with orange juice and sugar in a saucepan on your stovetop. This simple dish adds a tangy-sweet flavor to your meal.

4. Dessert

Instead of a full-size pie, opt for mini pies or pumpkin custards baked in ramekins. Your toaster oven is perfect for creating these individual desserts.

5. Maximize Space

RVs come with limited counter and storage space, so organize efficiently. Use collapsible storage containers for leftovers and stackable cookware. Try this collapsible storage set to keep your RV clutter-free.

6. Decorate Your Space

Set the mood with a few festive touches, such as mini pumpkins or a compact centerpiece. This tabletop décor set is perfect for adding Thanksgiving charm to your RV.

Conclusion

Cooking a Thanksgiving meal in an RV or camper doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or tradition. With careful planning, space-saving tools, and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a holiday feast wherever your adventures take you. Happy Thanksgiving!