10 Simple Campervan Meals

Cooking on the road in your campervan while exploring Australia’s breathtaking coastline, rugged outback, and lush national parks can feel like a challenge. Limited space, a small fridge (unless you hire our 4 Berth Henty or 6 Berth Derwent for extra storage), and a kitchen stocked with the basic necessities might make it seem tricky, but trust us —there’s no need to resort to endless packets of two-minute noodles or snagging overpriced takeaway at every stop.

With some Aussie flair and a little creativity, you can whip up tasty meals using fresh, pantry-friendly, and easy-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re parked up in Byron Bay, free camping in the Nullarbor, or overlooking the Great Ocean Road, these recipes are practical, delicious, and oh-so-doable. Let’s dive in!

 

 

One-Pot Veggie & Pasta Delight

Why it works: It’s quick, comforting, and uses simple, shelf-stable ingredients.

• Ingredients: Pasta, a tin of diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, pasta sauce, and whatever fresh veg you’ve picked up at the local farmers’ market (zucchini, capsicum, spinach).
• How to Make It: Cook the pasta, drain, and set aside. In the same pot, sauté your veggies in olive oil, stir in the diced tomatoes, and season with herbs. Toss the cooked pasta back in.

Aussie Twist: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or sprinkle in some Vegemite for a unique savoury flavour boost (sounds wild, but it works!).

 

 

Grilled Ham, Cheese & Tomato Toasties

Why it works: Classic Aussie comfort food that’s quick and easy.

• Ingredients: Sliced bread, ham, cheese, tomato, and butter.
• How to Make It: Spread butter on the outside of two slices of bread, layer ham, cheese, and tomato in the middle, and cook in a pan or grill until golden.

Aussie Twist: Add a little tomato chutney or barbecue sauce for that authentic Aussie touch. Pair with a cuppa tea or soup for a heartier meal.

 

 

Microwave Jacket Potatoes

Why it works: Potatoes are cheap, hearty, and easy to find anywhere in Oz.

• Ingredients: Large potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced bacon.
• How to Make It: Poke holes your spud with a fork, microwave for 6-8 minutes (or until cooked), and top with sour cream, cheese, and cooked bacon pieces.

Note: You’ll need to be plugged into a powered site you use the microwave.

 

 

Campfire Brekkie Skillet

Why it works: A hearty, all-in-one breakfast using just a frypan.

• Ingredients: Pre-cooked potatoes, eggs, bacon rashers, onions, and a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes.
• How to Make It: Fry your bacon, then toss in the onions and pre-cooked potatoes. Push everything to the side of the pan and crack in a couple of eggs. Stir in the spinach or tomatoes just before serving.

Aussie Twist: Serve with a dollop of tomato sauce or your favourite Aussie-made relish.

 

 

Veggie Omelette

Why it works: Only one pan required and ready in under 5 minutes.

• Ingredients: Eggs, diced capsicum, spinach, grated cheese, and a dash of milk.
• How to Make It: Whisk eggs, milk, and veggies in a pan, season, and cook.

Aussie Twist: Top with smashed avo or add a side of salad to give it a café-style vibe.

 

 

BBQ Sausage & Veggie Wraps

Why it works: Sausages are cheap, readily available, and great for easy meals.

• Ingredients: Beef or pork sausages, tortillas (or bread), lettuce, shredded carrot, and barbecue sauce.
• How to Make It: Cook your sausages and slice them up, then wrap in a tortilla with fresh lettuce, carrot, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.

Aussie Twist: Swap the lettuce for coleslaw or add beetroot slices for that iconic Aussie flavour.

 

 

Tuna & Corn Quesadillas

Why it works: These are budget-friendly, quick, and use pantry staples.

• Ingredients: Tortillas, canned tuna, canned corn, shredded cheese, and sweet chilli sauce.
• How to Make It: Spread tuna, corn, and cheese on one tortilla, drizzle with sweet chilli sauce, and cover with another tortilla. Toast in a skillet until golden and the cheese is melted.

Aussie Twist: Add a sprinkle of lemon myrtle spice (if you’ve picked some up locally!) or serve with a dollop of sour cream.

 

 

Stir-Fry with Rice

Why it works: Fresh, healthy, and adaptable to whatever’s in your fridge or pantry.

• Ingredients: Pre-cooked microwave rice or standard rice, frozen stir-fry veggies, soy sauce, and protein (tofu, leftover BBQ chicken, or prawns if you’re by the coast).
• How to Make It: Heat the veggies in a skillet, add the protein and cooked rice, and drizzle with soy sauce. Cook until heated through.

Aussie Twist: Splash in some sweet soy sauce or sprinkle with crushed peanuts for a Southeast Asian-inspired flavour.

 

 

Microwave Mac & Cheese for One

Why it works: Perfect for solo travellers who want something quick and comforting.

• Ingredients: Macaroni, grated cheese, a splash of milk, and butter.
• How to Make It: Cook macaroni in a microwave-safe bowl, drain, and stir in cheese, milk, and butter. Microwave for another 30 seconds, stir, and enjoy.

Aussie Twist: Add Vegemite for a salty, umami kick or mix in some diced ham or peas.

 

 

Grilled Pizza Wraps

Why it works: All the joy of pizza without the need for an oven.

• Ingredients: Tortillas, tomato paste, shredded cheese, and your favourite pizza toppings (olives, pineapple, ham, or salami).
• How to Make It: Spread tomato paste on the tortilla, layer on toppings and cheese, then fold and grill in a skillet until crispy.

Aussie Twist: Throw on some leftover roast lamb and drizzle with mint sauce for a gourmet Aussie-inspired pizza wrap.

 

Tips for Aussie Motorhome Cooking

1. Shop Local: Stock up at farmers’ markets or roadside stalls for fresh, affordable produce. Local honey, jams, and chutneys also make great additions to simple meals.
2. Stock Up on Essentials: Pantry staples like rice, pasta, tinned beans, tuna, and spices are lifesavers when you’re in remote areas.
3. Embrace One-Pot Cooking: Save space and water (for washing up) by using recipes that only need one pan or pot.
4. Get Creative with Leftovers: A leftover snag from last night’s BBQ can be tomorrow’s lunch in a wrap or stir-fry.

 

FAQs

Q: What’s the best way to manage fresh food on longer trips through remote Australia?
A: Focus on long-lasting veggies like carrots, onions, and potatoes. Store fresh herbs in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag to make them last longer. Also, stock up on canned or frozen options but remember to plug inti a powered site to keep your fridge/freezer (and campervan’s battery) running.

Q: Can I make these meals vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be adapted with plant-based alternatives like tofu, lentils, or vegan cheeses.

Q: What are some good snacks to keep on hand?
A: Aussie favourites like shapes, muesli bars, dried fruit, and nuts are perfect for road trips and don’t require refrigeration.

 

Happy Cooking!

There you have it—10 simple and delicious meals with an Aussie twist to keep your motorhome adventures satisfying and stress-free. Whether you’re cooking up brekkie before hitting the road or enjoying dinner under the stars, these recipes will help you savour every moment of your journey.

Looking for more ways to save money on your road trip? Check out our top tips here!

Ready to start your trip? Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans we have available at our branches!