Backpacking, as much fun as it is, can be a grueling experience. Long hikes, steep inclines, and treacherous footholds lurk around every corner. It’s just a part of the lifestyle and one thing people can’t escape from, no matter how long they ignore it, is hunger.
People get famished after covering all that terrain and, even if they’re not hiking and just enjoying a simple camp and fire, one of the best ways to satisfy that hunger in an easy and efficient way is prepackaged Mountain House Meals. Just add hot water and dive right in. It’s that easy!
Mountain House Meals are the go-to breakfast, lunch, and dinner options because of how easy they are to prepare, not to forget how delicious they tend to be. With a plethora of menu items and even a large variety of deserts, a true backpacker will never go hungry or dissatisfied with the vast selection available from Mountain House.
Table of Contents
Breakfasts
Most people have heard the age-old adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. This couldn’t be more true for backpackers who need all the nutrition and supplements they can get.
Nobody wants to be on a long trail with hunger pains, let alone malnutrition. Mountain House knows this and, thanks to their pledge to supply hearty and healthy food options, their breakfast meals are packed with generous portions, delicious flavors, and plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters.
Breakfast Skillet
No meal company’s breakfast list is complete, freeze-dried or not, without a great Breakfast Skillet. Mountain House is no exception and their version of the dish packs a lot of flavors and hearty portions.
Scrumptious scrambled eggs, filling hash browns, healthy vegetables, and plenty of sausages all combine to truly bring forth a Breakfast Skillet that will leave the stomach full, the tastebuds satisfied, and the body ready to take on some tough trails, until lunchtime anyway.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fast prep-time.
- Nice flavor.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- Jerky-like and chewy bacon.
- Eggs can be gritty.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 400.
- Total Fat- 24 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 7 grams.
- Cholesterol- 245 mg.
- Sodium- 920 mg.
- Carbs- 30 grams.
- Fiber- 4 grams.
- Protein- 14 grams.
- Sugars- 5 grams.
Allergens
- Egg, wheat, milk, and soy.
Biscuits and Gravy
Mountain House delivers a favorite among breakfast lovers with their classic Biscuits and Gravy, just like Mom used to make but much faster to prepare, not to mention eat. Made with real pieces of buttermilk biscuits and real, savory sausage crumbles, this hearty trail breakfast will keep one full and energized for hours of outdoor adventure.
The Gravy is thick, the biscuits fluffy, and the sausage is plentiful. Perfect for those who just can’t get enough of an age-old classic.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Packed with flavor.
- Fast prep-time.
- Biscuits not mushy.
Cons
- Sage spice overpowering.
- Sausage crumbles can be small.
- Too salty for some.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 310.
- Total Fat- 14 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 6 grams.
- Cholesterol- 10 milligrams.
- Sodium- 900 milligrams.
- Carbs- 36 grams.
- Fiber- 2 grams.
- Protein- 8 grams.
- Sugars- 6 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, soy, wheat.
Scrambled Eggs with Ham, Red and Green Peppers
Scrambled Eggs, as good as they can be on their own, can only get better with more ingredients, especially if they come together to make for one excellent, all-in-one, scramble.
Made with real, savory ham, red and green peppers that pop, and layered over a generous bed of scrambled eggs, this classic dish will both satisfy one’s hunger and cravings for an authentic breakfast that tastes homemade.
Prep-Time
5-6 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- 30 year taste guarantee.
- Fast prep-time.
- Eggs are fluffy.
- Gluten free.
Cons
- Smoky ham flavor can be overpowering.
- Too salty for some.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 3/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 190.
- Total Fat- 11 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 3.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 330 mg.
- Sodium- 630 mg.
- Carbs- 7 grams.
- Fiber- 0 grams.
- Protein- 15 grams.
- Sugars- 4 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, eggs
Spicy Southwest Breakfast Hash
A surprising twist on a popular breakfast meal, Mountain House makes their Breakfast Hash Spicy Southwest-style! All the great flavor of hash with just the right amount of kick to, well, kickstart a day of adventure. Ingredients for this flavorful breakfast dish include spicy shredded beef, black beans, hash browns, vegetables, and a forgiving amount of hot sauce. Great for outdoor enthusiasts who love having a little spicy flavor with their meals.
Prep-Time
9-10 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Great green chile flavor.
- Large amount of beef.
- Perfect amount of spice.
- Gluten-free.
Cons
- Texture can be off-putting.
- Longer to prepare than other meals.
- No eggs.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 3/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 250.
- Total Fat- 9 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 1.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 20mg.
- Sodium- 750mg.
- Carbs- 31 grams.
- Fiber- 5 grams.
- Protein- 11 grams.
- Sugars- 5 grams.
Allergens
No known allergens.
Side by side comparison (Whole Pouch)
Meal | Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Price |
Breakfast Skillet | 2 | 800 | 48g | 60g | 5.99 |
Biscuits & Gravy | 2 | 620 | 28g | 72g | 6.99 |
Scrambled Eggs With Ham & Peppers | 2 | 380 | 22g | 14g | 6.99 |
Southwest Breakfast Hash | 2 | 500 | 18g | 62g | 8.99 |
Entrees
Breakfast is important, no debating that, and even though it’s the ultimate start to an adventurous day of backpacking, calories need to be replenished as quickly as they are used. Hunger, like always, will come howling again. For lunch, then dinner, and so on.
That’s where Mountain House delivers, yet again, with their large selection of lunch and dinner entrees that will keep even the most extreme outdoor enthusiasts full and well-nourished.
Beef Stew
This one really is a classic, both at Mountain House and at home. Who doesn’t love a thick and tasty Beef Stew? When on the trail, or a mountain, eating flavorful food that is quick to prepare can really boost morale and keep the adventure going that much longer.
Mountain House Beef Stew is made with tender and succulent roast beef, peas, carrots, and potatoes to make a hearty stew perfect for lunch or dinner that will really stick to the ribs.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fast prep-time.
- Filling.
- Nice, non-mushy texture.
Cons
- Not gluten-free.
- Sodium heavy
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.5.
- Calories Per Serving- 190.
- Total Fat- 6 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 1 gram.
- Cholesterol- 20mg.
- Sodium- 860mg.
- Carbs- 22 grams.
- Fiber- 3 grams.
- Protein- 13 grams.
- Sugars- 2 grams.
Allergens
- Soy, wheat.
Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and Dumplings have always been a classic homemade dish that most have enjoyed at least once in their lives. So, why not enjoy it on the trail as well? Mountain House comes swinging with just that, a thick and hearty portion made to give the body a real energy boost.
Mountain House hit a home run when they mixed juicy chicken, plump dumplings and plenty of vegetables in a thick white gravy to bring homemade to the outdoors. It doesn’t get much better when it comes to lunch and dinner options, especially so far away from a true kitchen.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes (After boiling water)
Pros
- 30-year taste guarantee.
- Creamy sauce.
- Homemade taste.
Cons
- Too salty for some.
- Could have bigger portions.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 310.
- Total Fat- 14 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 4 grams.
- Cholesterol- 35mg.
- Sodium- 970mg.
- Carbs- 31 grams.
- Fiber- 2 grams.
- Protein- 15 grams.
- Sugars- 7 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, wheat.
Chicken Fajita Bowl
Another “south of the border” favorite from Mountain House are their Chicken Fajita Bowls, all ready to cook in a convenient pouch and zesty enough to satisfy anyone who loves tex-Mex style dishes.
This delicious meal comes packed with tender chicken, black beans, rice, corn, onions, bell peppers and the right amount of spicy seasonings to fill that empty belly with a truly satisfying take on the classic cuisine.
Prep-Time
9-10 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Gluten-free.
- Seasoned well.
- Good texture to add tortillas.
Cons
- Some may find it’s not as tasty as the Wrap version (discontinued).
- Lacking flavor for some
- Longer prep-time than other meals
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 3/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 280.
- Total Fat- 11 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 1 gram.
- Cholesterol- 60mg.
- Sodium- 690mg.
- Carbs- 25 grams.
- Fiber- 3 grams.
- Protein- 20 grams.
- Sugars- 4 grams.
Allergens
- Soy.
Chicken Teriyaki with Rice
We wouldn’t think of leaving a teriyaki dish off this list and, thanks to Mountain House and their huge meal selection, we don’t have to! A favorite among some, Teriyaki tends to add a tangy yet sweet flavor to anything it touches.
Mountain House and their Chicken Teriyaki with Rice is a hearty, well-portioned meal to take on any backpacking excursion, especially when the trails are rough. Made with meaty chicken, rice, mushrooms, real bamboo shoots and other nutritious veggies, not to forget the delicious teriyaki sauce, make this one a real winner.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Large portions.
- Fast prep-time.
- Nice texture.
Cons
- Too sweet for some.
- Could have less spices.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.5.
- Calories Per Serving- 220.
- Total Fat- 2 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 0.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 25mg.
- Sodium- 660mg.
- Carbs- 40 grams.
- Fiber- 1 gram.
- Protein- 10 grams.
- Sugars- 12 grams.
Allergens
- Soy, wheat.
Lasagna with Meat Sauce
When it comes to replicating homemade dishes, Mountain House just keeps delivering, and the same goes for their Lasagna with Meat Sauce. Anyone who enjoys the outdoors and Italian cuisine can now rest easy.
Lasagna is a dish almost everyone can relate to, as it has been a staple in diets across the globe for some time. Mountain House knew this and wanted to make it available for hikers and any other adventure-seekers. Made with real meat sauce, noodles, and both Parmesan and Romano kinds of cheese, this one can really stave off that craving for lasagna.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fresh-tasting.
- Fast prep-time
Cons
- Poor cheese texture.
- Some of the noodles can be chewy.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 1/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.5.
- Calories Per Serving- 240.
- Total Fat- 8 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 3.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 30mg.
- Sodium- 390mg.
- Carbs- 29 grams.
- Fiber- 3 grams.
- Protein- 14 grams.
- Sugars- 6 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, wheat
Sweet and Sour Pork with Rice
Like with teriyaki, we love that we can include a sweet and sour dish on this list, thanks again to Mountain House. Their Sweet and Sour Pork with rice is a delicious and tangy way to enjoy an international favorite, all in under fifteen minutes.
Fan of Chinese cuisine? Look no further. Packed with tender pork, savory rice, and onions, and slathered in a sweet and zesty pineapple sauce, this backpacking meal is the go-to lunch or dinner for many hikers and backpackers.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fast prep-time.
- Good texture.
- Nice amount of sauce.
Cons
- Light on calories.
- Too salty for some.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 1/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.5.
- Calories Per Serving- 290.
- Total Fat- 6 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 1.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 30mg.
- Sodium- 770mg.
- Carbs- 49 grams.
- Fiber- 1 gram.
- Protein- 12 grams.
- Sugars- 12 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, soy, wheat, anchovy.
Side by side comparison (Whole Pouch)
Meal | Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Price |
Beef Stew | 2.5 | 475 | 15g | 55g | 9.99 |
Chicken & Dumplings | 2 | 620 | 28g | 62g | 7.99 |
Chicken Fajita | 2 | 560 | 22g | 50g | 8.99 |
Chicken Teriyaki & Rice | 2.5 | 550 | 5g | 100g | 8.99 |
Lasagna & Meat Sauce | 2.5 | 600 | 20g | 72.5g | 8.99 |
Sweet & Sour Pork with Rice | 2.5 | 725 | 15g | 122.5g | 9.99 |
Vegetarian Options
What would an outdoor food company such as Mountain House be without at least a few vegetarian options? Some people just don’t eat meat. Whether it’s for dietary reasons or just a simple belief, these people don’t deserve to go hungry or miss out on the amazing flavor of these quick-to-make meals.
Mac and Cheese
Ah, macaroni and cheese, every child’s favorite dish, let alone the go-to meal for many adults too. It’s always been a simple and filling meal that just doesn’t get turned down often. After all, who doesn’t love cheese?
Mountain House has prepared a delightful, freeze-dried version of the world-famous meal for those who love the great outdoors. Vegetarian or not, this has probably made the shopping list for many hikers and backpackers. Its tasty contents and high-protein profile make it an excellent candidate for our list of the best Mountain House meals.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- High in protein.
- Fast prep-time.
- Not too salty.
Cons
- Some don’t care for the texture of the pasta.
- Cheese flavor could be stronger.
- Can be soupy.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 1/4 cup.
- Servings per container- 3.
- Calories Per Serving- 320.
- Total Fat- 15 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 7 grams.
- Cholesterol- 35mg.
- Sodium- 680mg.
- Carbs- 31 grams.
- Fiber- 1 gram.
- Protein- 13 grams.
- Sugars- 5 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, wheat.
Pasta Primavera
Perhaps the most veggie-packed dish we have on our list,
Pasta Primavera is a classic vegetarian dish with loads of flavor and portions that will leave one fully energized and ready for the next challenging trail or trek up another tall mountain.
Mountain House really went above and beyond, at least in our opinion, on this dish. It’s loaded with spiraled macaroni and Parmesan cheese sauce, a treat in and of itself, but it doesn’t stop there. It’s also infused with generous amounts of broccoli, peppers, zucchini, and cauliflower. All the fixings for a well-balanced, vegetarian diet. Not vegetarian? No worries; it’s still delicious and packed with enough nutrients to keep one satisfied and full.
Prep-Time
8-9 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fast prep-time.
- Lots of vegetables.
Cons
- Can be too salty for some.
- Could have larger portions.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.5.
- Calories Per Serving- 210.
- Total Fat- 6 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 3 grams.
- Cholesterol- 20mg.
- Sodium- 580mg.
- Carbs- 33 grams.
- Fiber- 2 grams.
- Protein- 7 grams.
- Sugars- 6 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, soy, wheat.
Apple Crisp
Apples, especially in a crisp, cinnamon glaze, can only be great nutrients for hikers, backpackers, and any other outdoor enthusiast looking to take the next step into getting healthy and satisfying food on the trail.
Dessert has never been better, considering the time and effort Mountain House has put into this delicious and dessert-like treat. With real cinnamon apples and crispy granola, this vegetarian treat makes both a great meal or shared snack.
Prep-Time
5-6 minutes(After boiling water)
Pros
- Fast prep-time.
Cons
- Some may find it not sweet enough.
- Not a lot of protein.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 2/3 cup.
- Servings per container- 3.
- Calories Per Serving- 180.
- Total Fat- 4 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 1.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 0mg.
- Sodium- 80mg.
- Carbs- 35 grams.
- Fiber- 3 grams.
- Protein- 2 grams.
- Sugars- 18 grams.
Allergens
- Wheat, coconut.
Granola with Milk and Blueberries
Maybe one of the best breakfast options available for vegetarians is Mountain House’s Granola with Milk and Blueberries. Made with crunchy oats, real blueberries, and powdered milk, this one will keep one full and satisfied while taking on some of the most tenacious terrains.
Prep-Time
Minutes (Just stir in cold water, mix, and enjoy)
Pros
- Fast prep time.
- Can be enjoyed hot or cold.
- Can add less water for thicker granola.
Cons
- Could have bigger portions.
- More fruit would be nice.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1/2 cup.
- Servings per container- 2.
- Calories Per Serving- 250.
- Total Fat- 9 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 4.5 grams.
- Cholesterol- 10mg.
- Sodium- 65mg.
- Carbs- 37 grams.
- Fiber- 4 grams.
- Protein- 8 grams.
- Sugars- 16 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, soy, wheat, coconut.
Side by side comparison (Whole Pouch)
Meal | Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Price |
Mac & Cheese | 3 | 960 | 45g | 93g | 7.99 |
Pasta Primavera | 2.5 | 525 | 15g | 82.5g | 6.99 |
Apple Crisp | 3 | 540 | 12g | 105g | 7.99 |
Granola with Milk & Blueberries | 2 | 500 | 18g | 74g
|
4.99 |
Desserts
Who doesn’t love dessert? It’s the ultimate icing on the cake, sometimes literally, and can help deliver the necessary calories needed for an extended backpacking adventure. It can, also, be the defining factor whether one goes for a late-night snack hours after supper, which is usually when an adventure-seeker should be getting the well-rested sleep required to keep moving forward.
No worries. Mountain House is at it again with a delicious selection of desserts that will leave taste buds and bellies satisfied and content.
Ice Cream Sandwich
This dessert may seem impossible, especially since it doesn’t need to be refrigerated! Using freeze-dried vanilla ice cream and stuffed between two delicious chocolate wafers, a childhood favorite can now be enjoyed at camp, on the trail, or anywhere else someones sweet tooth kicks in. Just pop open the pouch and dig right in.
Pros
- No refrigeration required.
- Quick and easy.
Cons
- Can be too “chalky” for some.
- High price for a single serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 sandwich.
- Servings per container- 1.
- Calories Per Serving- 170.
- Total Fat- 6 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 3 grams.
- Cholesterol- 20mg.
- Sodium- 135mg.
- Carbs- 28 grams.
- Fiber- 1 gram.
- Protein- 2 grams.
- Sugars- 15 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, wheat, soy.
New York Style Cheesecake Bites
Cheesecake has been a go-to dessert for many people for many years and Mountain House decided to get in on the craze with these delicious, bite-size pieces of the famous dessert. Made with decadent cream cheese, brown sugar, a hint of citrus, and a graham cracker crust, this is a sure winner for any cheesecake fan.
Pros
- No refrigeration required.
- Tastes like real cheesecake.
Cons
- Could have larger portions.
- Priced a little high.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size- 1 package.
- Servings per container- 1.
- Calories Per Serving- 240.
- Total Fat- 14 grams.
- Saturated Fat- 8 grams.
- Cholesterol- 55mg.
- Sodium- 190mg.
- Carbs- 25 grams.
- Fiber- 1 gram.
- Protein- 4 grams.
- Sugars- 14 grams.
Allergens
- Milk, soy, eggs, wheat.
Side by side comparison (Whole Pouch)
Meal | Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Price |
Ice Cream Sandwich | 1 | 170 | 6g | 28g | 2.99 |
New York Cheesecake Bites | 1 | 240 | 14g | 25g | 3.99 |
Further Research:
- The Best Dehydrated Meals to Bring on Your Next Trip: In this article we shopw you the top seven backpacking dehydrated food you should try out, along with suggestions for each brand’s most-loved flavors.
- Must-Have Camping Trip Checklist – Do These Things Before You Leave: Want to make sure you have all your bases covered for your next camping trip? Check out these top things to check off your camping list first!
- Backpacker’s Pantry vs Mountain House – Who Has the Best Meals?: If you’re fairly new to backpacking, both Backpacker’s Pantry and Mountain House are popular brands. Read all their differences here!
- Best Outdoor Survival Emergency Food Ideas to Always Have Ready: Remember, never get hungry on the trails. In this article we show you the best outdoor survival food and meal bars that will keep you going and full that are easy to pack and take anywhere!
FAQs About Mountain House Meals
Are Mountain House Meals Healthy?
Yes. Mountain House offers wide range of frozen and dried meals, offering balanced and nutritious meals outdoors. Even though the ingredients are dried, these meals still taste like home-cooked and are rich in proteins and calories.
How long do Mountain House Meals Last?
Mountain House Meals are an excellent way to stock on food, and since 2016, the company has increased the shelf life of their products for up to 30 years.
Do Mountain House Meals come in a package?
Besides being able to purchase separate meals, the company also offers 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, 4-week and 12-week packed boxes of food, which are rehydrating with cups of water. (You can find the official measurings on the official site).
The All-Outdoors Guide team is comprised of enthusiastic experts that enjoy helping others that aspire to be better at outdoor fun. Part of that is making sure you have the right gear and information when it’s time to go out and have fun. Some of our team have accomplished amazing feats like climbing 6000 feet to the top of mountains, others have explored every dirt trail they could find and we even have some people that have backpacked solo on various continents. No matter what our readers want to learn and do, our team is here to help them accomplish those goals.