Your Complete Guide To RV Crock-Pot Cooking

Successful RV cooking can be challenging. With a lack of counter space, minimal storage, and a tiny fridge, there are many obstacles to overcome. Luckily, the amazing Crock-Pot is here to help!

I wasn’t always on the RV Crock-Pot cooking train. When we were in the process of downsizing to live full-time in an RV one of the first items to get donated was my Crock-Pot. At the time I thought it was too big, too heavy, and too impractical for RV living.

It took me over three years, but I’ve finally seen the error in my ways and am now the proud owner of a new Crock-Pot! I’ve only had it about a month, but I’ve already used it six times and love how easy it makes meal time.

If you’re on the fence about Crock-Pot RV cooking, here are few perks that might change your mind.

• Convenience and flexibility: There is nothing better than coming home after a long day of exploring to a hot, home-cooked meal ready to eat. Or, fill the pot in the evening and let it cook overnight for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
• Save money: We all know that home cooking saves money but did you also know that Crock-Pot meals can be incredibly economical? That’s because dishes cooked in a Crock-Pot often use cheaper cuts of meat, frozen vegetables, and inexpensive pantry staples like dried rice and beans.
• No mess, no fuss: Most Crock-Pot meals require no other cooking utensils aside from maybe a cutting board, a knife, and occasionally a bowl or two. This makes for very simple and quick clean up when the meal is done. For even less clean up, get yourself a box of Crock-Pot liners.

• Use less propane: The majority of RVs are equipped with a propane stove. Propane can be expensive and one of the ways to save on propane is by using electric cooking appliances such as a Crock-Pot.

Choosing the right Crock-Pot for your RV

• Crock-Pots come in a range of sizes from the tiny 1.5-quart model to the large family size 7-quart beast. A model on the smaller size is the most practical for RV use. A 4 or 4.5 quart Crock-Pot is perfect for a family of four, or a family of two who wants leftovers for the next day or the freezer.
• When choosing a Crock-pot for your RV, consider your storage and counter space, the type of meals you plan to cook, and how many people you want to feed.
• A Crock-Pot with a programmable timer is a must! Most will switch to warm once the cooking time is done, so even if you’re not home when it finishes the meal will stay nice and warm.

Is it safe to leave my Crock-Pot unattended?

There are some concerns about using a Crock-Pot in an RV, mainly regarding the use of electric appliances while you are away from your RV. There is always a risk when you leave an electric appliance unattended—that applies to both a stationary home and an RV.

But for the most part, Crock-Pots are considered extremely safe. The outside gets warm but not hot, and the bottom is wide, reducing the risk of tipping over.

If you don’t feel comfortable leaving a Crock-Pot on inside your RV, a great option is to plug it in outside and leave it on the picnic table. Of course, if you’re camping in bear country this might not be the best idea.

Can I drive with my Crock-Pot on?

The other issue that comes up a lot with RV Crock-Pot cooking is whether it’s okay to use it when you are driving down the road.

Some people swear by this method and love having a hot meal ready when they arrive, while others would never dream of leaving a large pot of hot food cooking in a moving vehicle.

As the owner of a travel trailer, I don’t feel comfortable using the Crock-Pot while driving since I can’t see it to know if something has gone wrong. Judging by the number of things that shift around back there all I can imagine is the lid flying off and the food going everywhere! However, if I had a motorhome I might consider it.

If you do plan to use your Crock-Pot while driving down the road, make sure you get one that fits in your sink and wrap it with towels to prevent it from moving around. Also, consider purchasing a Crock-Pot that comes with clips to secure the lid while you’re on the move.

Crock-Pot power use

One of the main reasons why I resisted a Crock-Pot in my RV for so long was because we like to dry camp without power hook-ups. Without a 120-volt power source, I didn’t think it would be possible to use a Crock-Pot.

I have since learned that a Crock-Pot can be run off the RV batteries provided you use an inverter (a device that converts 12-volt power from the batteries to the 120-volt power required by the Crock-Pot).

I have not tried it, but I know others who successfully run their Crock-Pot off their RV batteries while dry camping. Before you try it check the bottom of the Crock-Pot to see how much power it uses and make sure your inverter and batteries can handle the load. Also, keep in mind that the Crock-Pot will use less power when set on low.

RV-friendly Crock-Pot Recipes

There are so many delicious meals that can be made in a Crock-Pot. From breakfast to dessert and all the meals between, Crock-Pot cooking is incredibly versatile. We’re not just talking about soup and pot roast either (although those are both delicious).

How does Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Ginger Orange Cheese Cake, or Hot Spiced Caramel Cider sound?

Here is a great list of tasty recipes to get you started on your RV Crock-Pot cooking:

• Pesto Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms
• Bacon Wrapped Apple Barbecue Chicken
• Crock-Pot Breakfast Casserole
• Slow Cooker Nutella French Toast with Caramelized Bananas
• Crock-Pot Pork Ribs with Killer Barbecue Sauce
• Honey Garlic Crock Pot Meatballs
• Slow Cooker Honey Balsamic Pork Roast
• Crock-Pot Cheddar Beer Chicken Tacos
• Minty Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
• Shredded Beef Nachos

RV Crock-Pot cooking: No recipe required

You don’t need to follow a recipe to make delicious meals in your Crock-Pot. Some of the best Crock-Pot dishes are the simplest. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat + Sauce: Put a large piece of pork, beef, or chicken parts in the cooker, cover with your favorite sauce (BBQ, tomato, etc) and cook until finished.
• Baked Potatoes: Wash and season regular or sweet potatoes. Pierce them all over with a fork, rub with oil, and wrap in foil. Place the potatoes in the cooker and set it on low for 8-10 hours.

• Simple Soup or Stew: Combine veggies and meat or beans with a broth of your choice. Let simmer until cooked through. Add a generous amount of kale or spinach to top of the soup, close the lid and let it steam for a few minutes. Stir in and add spices to taste.
• Overnight Oats: Add steel cut oats, water, dried fruit and spices of your choosing to the cooker. Set on low and let simmer overnight.
• Poached Pears or Apples: Cut the fruit in half and toss with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Place them cut side down in the Crock-Pot and cook on high for 1-2 hours. Serve with ice cream!

What are your waiting for? RV Crock-Pot cooking is simple, affordable, and convenient. Shop around for the Crock-pot that fits your needs and your space, and start enjoying delicious home cooked meals in your RV today.