Easy Recipes You Can Make in Your College Residence Hall
As college students, we are all super busy and try to find convenience where we can. Given that eating is something we all need to do, we are known for making cheap, quick, and easy meals. But when I got to college, I wanted to branch out and try things other than just the stereotypical ramen. Sometimes we don’t feel like going to the dining hall, or maybe it’s just late and we want a quick snack. So here are some quick and easy ideas I have loved over the years!
Mug Cake
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe mug, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the mug. Stir until smooth.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips.
- Microwave on high for 1 to 1.5 minutes, or until the cake has risen and set in the middle.
- Let it cool for a minute before enjoying it.
I know it seems like a lot, but just bring the ingredients from home, and make them over and over again to enjoy as a nice sweet treat!
Mug omelet
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fillings of your choice (cheese, diced vegetables, cooked ham, etc.)
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe mug, mix together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper
- Add your choice of fillings and stir gently.
- Microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
- Allow it to cool for a moment before eating.
This is a great way to get some protein in with little effort. Just a quick trip to the grocery store and you’re set!
BLT
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread
- 4 slices of (microwavable) bacon, cooked
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
- Toast the bread slices if desired/you have a toaster.
- Spread mayonnaise on one or both slices of bread
- .Arrange bacon, lettuce, and tomato slices on one slice.
- Top with the other slice of bread to make a sandwich.
This is a classic, so easy, yet so good. It only requires 5 ingredients and can be assembled within a minute for a quick and easy meal.
Cup of noodles
Ingredients:
- Instant noodles
- Water
Instructions:
- Boil water in a kettle or make it very hot in the microwave.
- Place the instant noodles in a bowl and pour the hot water over them.
- Let it sit for a few minutes until the noodles are cooked.
- Add seasoning from the noodle packet and stir.
This is probably a fan favorite among college students, and what we are known for eating. It gets the job done and is cheap. All you need is a microwave, the noodles, and some water and you’re good to go! If you want to add a little spice, add some protein and sauces of your choice.
“Stir Fry”
Ingredients:
- Microwavable rice packet of your choice
- Microwavable vegetables
- Soy sauce
Instructions:
- Microwave rice packet for time instructed and put on bottom of bowl.
- Microwave packet of vegetables for time instructed and place on top of the rice.
- Pour some soy sauce or sauce of your choice on top for some good flavor.
- ENJOY!
This is a really simple yet good recipe. It is pretty healthy and affordable. The rice can be found for a dollar or two and you can get a big bag of frozen veggies for around $2-$3 as well. If you have access to a protein, feel free to add that as well.
Baked Potato
You can typically find these in the produce section of grocery stores. They are potatoes that come wrapped in plastic and ready to microwave. After about 8 minutes, you have a potato ready to eat! I personally don’t mind just throwing some butter and salt on there. But, if you want to make it more interesting you could load it up with some cheese, sour cream, or even bacon to make it a filling meal!
Some good microwavable/frozen options
There are also many good microwavable options that you could just throw in there for a whole meal in just a couple of minutes. Some of my favorite brands are:
- Trader Joes
- Stouffers
- Amy’s
- Healthy Choice
- Marie Callender
I hope this gave you some new ideas to try out in your dorm room. Fueling our bodies is essential to be able to function throughout the day with our busy lives as college students.
