As a student, it can be challenging to balance academics, social life, and personal responsibilities while trying to stay within your means. One area where you might feel like you’re falling short is in the kitchen. Cooking meals from scratch can seem daunting, especially when you’re on a tight budget. But fear not! With these 20 quick and easy recipes, you’ll be well on your way to mealtime mastery without breaking the bank.
From simple breakfast options to satisfying dinner ideas, we’ve got you covered with a range of tasty dishes that won’t leave you feeling empty-handed (or full-priced!). So grab your apron, fire up the microwave, or get cooking with these budget-friendly recipes designed specifically for students like you.
Microwave scrambled eggs with cheese
A convenient breakfast solution for busy mornings! This recipe yields creamy scrambled eggs with a melted cheese topping, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred type)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Add the butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then remove and stir gently.
4. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring between each interval, until the eggs are almost set (about 1 minute total).
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds, or until melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 minutes
5-minute peanut butter banana toast
Kick-start your day with a deliciously easy and satisfying snack! This peanut butter banana toast recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a quick pick-me-up any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each slice.
3. Top with a slice of banana.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-pot garlic butter pasta
This comforting recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the ease of a one-pot pasta dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the saucepan with garlic butter. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to combine with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy ramen noodle stir-fry
This simple recipe turns instant ramen noodles into a flavorful and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll have a delicious stir-fry on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant ramen noodles
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cooked ramen noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until everything is well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave mug mac and cheese
Quick Comfort in a Mug: Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your mac and cheese cravings with this easy and speedy recipe that yields a creamy, cheesy treat in just minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup macaroni
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni in a microwave-safe mug for 30-40 seconds, or until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the milk, butter, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the cheesy mixture over the cooked macaroni in the mug.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Avocado and egg breakfast wrap
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast wrap featuring creamy avocado and a runny egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until they’re cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Spread the mashed avocado along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place the scrambled eggs on top of the avocado.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
3-ingredient pancake cereal
Start your day off right with this 3-ingredient pancake cereal recipe that’s easy to make and fun for the whole family. Made with pancakes, milk, and a hint of vanilla, this breakfast treat is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pancake mix
• 1 cup milk (any type)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix and milk. Stir until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into individual bowls or a serving dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation) + refrigeration time
Overnight oats with frozen berries
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast that’s ready when you wake up! This recipe combines the creaminess of oats with the sweetness of frozen berries for a tasty and nutritious start.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 cup frozen mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Stir until well combined.
2. Add the frozen berries on top of the oat mixture.
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or up to 8 hours.
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings, such as sliced banana or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you wake up.
Grilled cheese with tomato soup
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 slice of cheese (American, cheddar, or your favorite variety)
– 1 medium tomato
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato soup for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese and tomato slices.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your comforting grilled cheese with tomato soup!
Microwave baked potato with toppings
In just a few minutes, you can have a deliciously cooked baked potato topped with your favorite ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 large baking potatoes
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
– Optional toppings:
+ Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
+ Sour cream
+ Chopped chives or scallions
+ Bacon bits or diced cooked bacon
+ Diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Spray the potatoes lightly with cooking spray or oil.
4. Place one or two potatoes (depending on size) in the microwave.
5. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
6. Remove the potatoes from the microwave and add your desired toppings.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per potato
Tuna salad sandwich with crackers
A classic and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for a quick lunch or afternoon pick-me-up. This tuna salad sandwich with crackers is a simple yet satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped onion
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 crackers (your choice of brand and type)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, onion, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Arrange 2-3 crackers on a plate or serving surface.
3. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the crackers.
4. Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Instant noodle hack with veggies
Add some excitement to your instant noodles by incorporating colorful veggies and a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of instant noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the cooked noodles and toss to combine.
4. Add the cooked vegetables on top of the noodle mixture and toss gently.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quesadilla with canned beans
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the convenience of canned beans with the warmth and comfort of a quesadilla. This flavorful treat is ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (14 oz)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add 1/4 cup of canned beans on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Microwave rice bowl with soy sauce
Ready in just a few minutes, this simple microwave rice bowl is a perfect solution when you need a quick and satisfying meal. With the rich flavor of soy sauce, it’s also a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
– Your choice of protein (e.g., cooked chicken, tofu, or edamame)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine rice and water.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), and your chosen protein.
4. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until heated through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Pita bread pizza with leftovers
Transforming last night’s leftovers into a delicious Pita Bread Pizza is a culinary hack worth sharing! This recipe turns humble ingredients into a satisfying snack or meal, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 pita breads (depending on size)
– Leftover sauce (marinara, pesto, or your favorite variety)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of choice (e.g., cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, sliced pepperoni, olives, etc.)
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Split the pita breads in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Brush each pita half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon leftover sauce over the pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Boiled egg and avocado rice bowl
A simple yet satisfying bowl that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of boiled egg, all on a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Boil the eggs for 10-12 minutes, then slice into wedges.
3. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice into small pieces.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, sliced boiled egg, and diced avocado.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-fried frozen vegetables with rice
This recipe is a great way to use up frozen vegetables and cook a nutritious meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry seasoning
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the frozen vegetables and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek yogurt with honey and granola
Start your day with a delicious and satisfying breakfast or snack that’s perfect for any time of the year. This simple recipe combines creamy Greek yogurt, sweet honey, and crunchy granola for a treat that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons granola
– Optional: fresh fruit (such as berries or sliced banana)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the Greek yogurt, leaving a small border at the top.
2. Drizzle the honey over the yogurt, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
3. Sprinkle the granola over the honey, breaking up any clumps with your fingers or a spoon.
4. If desired, add fresh fruit on top of the granola for extra flavor and texture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None ( Assembly only)
Spaghetti aglio e olio with chili flakes
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on the traditional Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, adding a spicy kick from chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (chili flakes)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add chili flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, then combine with cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave mug chocolate cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and moist microwave mug cake, perfect for a late-night craving or an impromptu treat. This recipe yields one delicious serving that’s ready in just minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. If desired, top with chocolate chips and microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Time: 1:15 – 1:30 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and easy recipes perfect for students on a budget! From microwave scrambled eggs with cheese to instant noodle hacks, these 20 quick and easy recipes are sure to please. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast wrap or a satisfying pasta dish, this collection has something for everyone. Try making one-pot garlic butter pasta, easy ramen noodle stir-fry, or even microwave mug mac and cheese. With ingredients readily available and minimal cooking time required, these recipes are perfect for busy students looking to eat well without breaking the bank.
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