When it comes to cooking, students often face a dilemma: they want to eat well, but they don’t have a lot of time or money. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 18 budget-friendly recipes that are perfect for busy students like you. From comforting mac and cheese to protein-packed scrambled eggs, these recipes are all quick, easy, and affordable.
Whether you’re looking for something to fuel your morning or a satisfying dinner after a long day of classes, we’ve got you covered. Our recipes use simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, making them perfect for students with even the busiest schedules. So go ahead, grab your apron, and get cooking!
Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes. Perfect for a solo snack or late-night treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup macaroni
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine macaroni, butter, and milk.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to soften the pasta.
3. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Microwave for an additional 15-20 seconds to melt the cheese further.
Cooking Time: 45-50 seconds
Enjoy your creamy, comforting microwave mug mac and cheese!
5-Minute Avocado Toast
Start your day with a creamy and nutritious twist on classic toast. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (such as whole wheat or sourdough)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or chopped herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toast.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add any desired optional toppings (such as red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or chopped herbs) if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Butter
Savor a classic Italian dish with ease by cooking spaghetti, garlic butter, and savory sauce all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add softened butter and stir until melted.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated with sauce.
7. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
Whip up a quick and satisfying meal with this easy ramen noodle stir-fry recipe, perfect for a busy day or a comforting snack. This simple dish combines the flavors of savory vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and spicy seasoning in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Scrambled Eggs with Spinach
Start your day off right with these fluffy scrambled eggs packed with nutritious spinach. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Add the chopped spinach to one half of the skillet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the eggs over the spinach.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup Recipe
A comforting combination of gooey melted cheese, crispy bread, and savory tomato soup is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– 4 cups tomato soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 a cheese slice, followed by a tomato slice.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve with tomato soup warmed to your liking.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Overnight Oats with Banana and Honey
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast that’s both easy to make and packed with goodness. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of banana with the warmth of honey, all wrapped up in a creamy overnight oats package.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tsp honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, and yogurt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add sliced banana and honey to the mixture. Stir gently.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings (e.g., nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Simple Veggie Quesadilla
A classic Mexican favorite gets a veggie twist! This simple quesadilla recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, packed with sautéed veggies and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together bell peppers, mushrooms, and cilantro.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, followed by half of the veggie mixture and half 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.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Instant Noodles with Egg and Veggies
This recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for a busy day when you need a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of instant noodles
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked noodles, egg mixture, and vegetables in a bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Potato with Beans and Cheese
A comforting and satisfying recipe perfect for a cozy evening: Baked Potato with Beans and Cheese!
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven.
5. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
6. While the potatoes are baking, heat the black beans in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water until warmed through.
7. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each with the warm black beans, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using).
8. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 60-70 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Get ready to start your day with a delicious and nutritious smoothie! This creamy treat combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of peanut butter, and the convenience of yogurt for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of flavorful garlic, rich olive oil, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 3-4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the garlic and olive oil. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Salad Wrap
A classic combination of tuna, mayonnaise, and vegetables wrapped in a flour tortilla, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 flour tortilla
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, cucumber slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, onion, bell pepper, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay the flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
3. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a wrap shape.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
Microwave Scrambled Eggs
Start your day with a fluffy and delicious breakfast that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe for microwave scrambled eggs is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re short on time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– Salt to taste
– Optional: any desired fillings (e.g., diced veggies, shredded cheese, cooked meats)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
3. If using, add your desired fillings to the egg mixture.
4. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Remove from the microwave and stir gently with a fork to distribute any fillings evenly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-45 seconds
Stir-Fried Rice with Frozen Veggies
This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and frozen veggies, making it a perfect solution for a busy day. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup frozen mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the frozen veggies and cook until thawed and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for another minute to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Hummus and Veggie Sandwich
A flavorful and nutritious sandwich that combines the richness of hummus with the crunch of fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices whole wheat bread
– Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, cucumber, carrots, spinach)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of hummus on each bread slice.
3. Arrange vegetables on top of the hummus.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing another bread slice on top.
5. Cut into halves or quarters, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Easy Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Easy Pancakes with Maple Syrup Recipe
Summary: Whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes and top them off with the sweet, rich flavor of maple syrup for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter onto the skillet or griddle, leaving space for the pancakes to spread.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over toasted bread. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel up with these 18 quick and easy recipes perfect for students on a budget! From comforting mac ‘n cheese to protein-packed scrambles, and from simple stir-fries to indulgent pancakes, this list has got you covered. Discover how to whip up a delicious meal in no time using affordable ingredients. Try the Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese, 5-Minute Avocado Toast, or One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Butter for a flavorful fix. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these budget-friendly recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!