When you’re a student on a budget, cooking can seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are 20 quick and easy recipes that won’t break the bank. From comforting mac and cheese to protein-packed stir-fries, these meals are perfect for busy students who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast option like scrambled eggs with toast or a convenient lunchtime solution like a quesadilla with salsa and sour cream, we’ve got a recipe that fits your needs. And the best part? All of these meals can be made in 30 minutes or less, so you won’t have to sacrifice precious study time to get a delicious meal on the table.
Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your mac and cheese cravings with this super-speedy recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes. Perfect for a solo snack or a quick lunch, this microwave mug version is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup macaroni
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe mug, combine butter, milk, and 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese. Microwave on high for 20-25 seconds or until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the mug, followed by the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 30-35 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 seconds
5-Minute Avocado Toast
In just a few minutes, you can create a nutritious and flavorful snack with this simple recipe. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add any optional toppings you like (e.g., lemon juice, red pepper flakes).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This recipe is a simplified take on the traditional Italian dish, featuring spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small skillet, cook the garlic over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the olive oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and cooked garlic to the pot with the spaghetti. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is well coated with the garlic and oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice
Easy Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice: A Quick and Delicious Meal Solution!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a fluffy and flavorful breakfast treat that’s ready in just minutes! This simple recipe uses only three ingredients to create a delicious banana pancake.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas and flour until well mixed.
2. Crack in the egg and mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the banana mixture by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip the pancakes and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Scrambled Eggs with Toast
Start your day off right with a classic breakfast combo: fluffy scrambled eggs and crispy toast. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Optional: chopped herbs, chili flakes, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are just set (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, toast the bread to your liking.
5. Serve the scrambled eggs hot with toasted bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Instant Ramen Upgrade with Egg and Veggies
Elevate your instant ramen game by adding protein-packed eggs and a medley of colorful veggies. This simple upgrade transforms a humble college staple into a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Instant Ramen
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, sliced carrots, diced bell peppers)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant ramen according to package instructions.
2. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly. Set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the cooked ramen noodles and stir well.
4. Pour the whisked eggs over the noodle mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
5. Sprinkle soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy your upgraded instant ramen!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
This timeless combination of gooey melted cheese, crispy bread, and warm tomato soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy evening. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this satisfying treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1-2 slices of cheddar or American cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can of condensed tomato soup
– Freshly ground black pepper, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Add cheese to the bread and top with the second slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve with warmed tomato soup and a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Overnight Oats with Peanut Butter
Kick-start your day with a creamy and delicious bowl of peanut butter overnight oats! This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped peanuts or chia seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, and peanut butter. Stir until the peanut butter is fully incorporated.
2. Add honey or maple syrup if desired, then stir to combine.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top.
4. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
5. In the morning, give the oats a good stir to redistribute the peanut butter and almond milk.
6. Top with chopped peanuts or chia seeds if desired.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours to overnight
Quesadilla with Salsa and Sour Cream
This classic Mexican dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of melted cheese, crispy tortillas, and tangy toppings is a match made in heaven. This recipe brings it all together in a simple and delicious way.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salsa and sour cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve with salsa and sour cream on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pasta with Garlic Butter and Parmesan
Pasta with Garlic Butter and Parmesan: A Simple yet Satisfying Classic
This recipe is a timeless favorite that combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to brighten up any evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Combine the cooked spaghetti, garlic butter mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Microwave Scrambled Eggs
Start your day with a delicious and convenient breakfast that’s ready in just minutes! This microwave recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re short on time.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs (e.g., parsley, chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add the milk and whisk until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Microwave on high for 30-40 seconds or until the eggs are almost set.
5. Remove from the microwave and stir gently to break up any remaining egg whites.
6. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 10-15 seconds, or until the eggs are fully scrambled.
Cooking Time: 45-60 seconds
Simple Tuna Salad Wrap
A classic wrap that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein and flavor! This tuna salad wrap is perfect for a satisfying lunch or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of chopped celery
– 1 tablespoon of chopped hard-boiled egg
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, onion, celery, and egg. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Add Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
4. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
5. Add lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices if desired.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a tight wrap.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepare and serve)
Baked Potato with Cheese and Beans
This recipe is a classic combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its crispy outside, fluffy inside, gooey cheese, and creamy beans, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with softened butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, combine the black beans and shredded cheese in a bowl.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with the bean and cheese mixture.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Easy Homemade Hummus with Pita
A classic Middle Eastern dip that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a healthy addition to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Pita bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly add olive oil and water. Continue blending until creamy and smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with pita bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Stir-Fried Noodles with Soy Sauce
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with springy noodles. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice noodles or soba work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, 30 seconds.
4. Pour in soy sauce and water mixture; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked noodles; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, coating noodles evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Frozen Veggies
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to transform leftover rice into a flavorful and nutritious meal by adding scrambled eggs, frozen veggies, and a few simple seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, chili flakes, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the frozen veggies and cook until thawed and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the veggies.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and always a hit! This simple sandwich brings together the creamy richness of peanut butter and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter
– Optional: honey, granola, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
2. Spread one slice with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top the peanut butter with sliced banana.
4. Place the second bread slice on top to create a sandwich.
5. Cut the sandwich in half or into quarters, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Microwave Mug Omelette
Start your day with a delicious and fluffy omelette in just minutes! This microwave mug recipe is perfect for busy mornings or late-night snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Optional fillings (choose one):
+ 1-2 slices of cooked bacon, diced
+ 1-2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese
+ Chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives)
– Cooking spray or butter
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a microwave-safe mug.
2. Add milk, salt, and optional fillings (if using).
3. Sprinkle cooking spray or butter on top of the mixture.
4. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Carefully remove the omelette from the microwave and fold it in half.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-45 seconds
Greek Yogurt with Honey and Granola
A classic combination of creamy yogurt, sweet honey, and crunchy granola makes for a satisfying snack or light breakfast. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– Optional: fresh fruit (such as berries, sliced banana, or diced apple)
Instructions:
1. Spoon the Greek yogurt into a bowl.
2. Drizzle the honey over the yogurt, spreading it evenly with a spoon if needed.
3. Sprinkle the granola on top of the yogurt and honey.
4. Add fresh fruit to taste, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Summary
Discover delicious and budget-friendly recipes perfect for students! From comforting mac and cheese to quick avocado toast, this collection has something for everyone. Whip up a one-pot spaghetti dish or cook up some easy veggie stir-fry with rice. Treat yourself to banana pancakes, scrambled eggs with toast, or upgrade instant ramen with egg and veggies. Enjoy classic grilled cheese with tomato soup, overnight oats with peanut butter, or quesadillas with salsa and sour cream. These 20 quick and easy recipes will keep you fueled without breaking the bank.
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