Trail Chef Jennifer Bowen

You already know packing more stuff isn’t always better. These tasty, three-ingredient, simple backpacking recipes apply that same philosophy to your menu.

Noodles in the morning? Trust us on this one.

Those instructions on the brownie box? Feel free to ignore them. This simple technique will get you a gooey, chocolatey dessert in just a few minutes.

This classic comfort food is quick to throw together from easy-to-find pantry ingredients.

This Southwest classic will soothe your taco craving.

This Japanese-inspired soup is more filling than the version that’s served in sushi restaurants. Bonus: Miso packs tons of flavor and is a complete protein.

Dehydrated tomato powder makes an incredibly easy, tasty soup that pairs perfectly with gooey grilled cheese.

This version of alfredo sauce is actually closer to the authentic Italian style than the cream-based versions you’re used to.

This pesto is easy to make in the field, and the pasta’s carbs will fuel your next day’s hike.

This simplified classic is a high-calorie, gooey, dream come true.

This hot, salty starter would be at home in a bar.

Primal meets gourmet with campfire cooking. Learn the key techniques for success with this Trail Chef primer on campfire cooking basics.

Fresh accessories help upgrade the backcountry version of this classic Middle Eastern meal. Got leftovers? One word: breakfast. 2 servings

East meets South in this filling finger food. Option: Sub in tofu for a vegetarian version of these chicken tacos.

Go beyond ramen to fulfill your noodle cravings. By skipping the fish sauce, this popular Thai treat works even for day seven.

These breakfast sammies are grab-and-go perfection. Croissants are actually very rugged when flattened a bit, and they elevate every filling.

This delicious snack is quick enough to whip up mid-hike, and doubles as a sandwich spread.

Yes, you can have this living room luxury in the wilderness.

Start your day off right with these hearty, filling meals that still leave you plenty of time to hit the trail early.

There’s no mess with this easy-to-eat treat (unless you let a photographer make it)—the toppings are inside.

Kale provides a nutritional boost and fiber, while cheese adds a salty kick and a bit of protein.

This lazy breakfast is ideal for a cold morning when hands and tummies need warming.

The classic yogurt and granola breakfast bowl goes hot.

Do the hard work at home, then carry this luxurious meal base for a fun, easy first-night treat. We’ve given you four variations, but the trail potatoes possibilities are endless.

This easy, three-ingredient dessert is perfect for a backcountry birthday. Sub in dried cherries or blueberries for a different twist.

Quick-and-easy trail food doesn’t have to be bland. Mix up some flavor-packed spice blends at home to kick your cooking to a new level of yum.

Toasting spices is a time-honored way to guarantee an even bigger flavor burst. Bonus: Hearty quinoa is a complete protein.

People are always impressed with this authentic-tasting Indian dish. Don’t tell ’em how easy it is.

This Buckeye favorite has rich mole flavors without being especially hot. It’s thinner than normal chili, and usually served over hot dogs or spaghetti.

This super-easy, pudding-based treat just might ease your day-three ice cream craving.

Bread pudding is the ultimate way to end your day. Bonus: This decadent treat requires almost no cleanup.