Cooking on a budget in college doesn’t have to mean surviving on ramen alone. With some simple ingredients and a few easy recipes, you can make affordable meals that are tasty, filling, and super easy to prepare. Here are nine budget-friendly recipes to get you started without breaking the bank.
Budget Stir-Fry
This one-pan wonder is packed with flavor and uses affordable ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like frozen stir-fry mix)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Dice the chicken or tofu and cook in a pan with oil until browned.
- Add veggies and stir-fry for a few minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, season with salt and pepper, and serve over rice or noodles.
Microwave Mug Omelet
Quick, easy, and customizable with whatever you have on hand!
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp milk
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: veggies, cheese, or deli meat
Instructions:
- In a mug, whisk eggs, milk, and any add-ins.
- Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then microwave another 30 seconds.
- Season to taste and enjoy a fast, protein-packed breakfast.
Tortilla Pizzas
Make your own pizza with a tortilla, saving both time and money!
Ingredients:
- 1 tortilla
- 2 tbsp marinara sauce or pasta sauce
- ¼ cup shredded cheese
- Optional toppings: pepperoni, veggies, or whatever’s in the fridge
Instructions:
- Spread sauce on the tortilla, sprinkle cheese, and add any toppings.
- Bake in the oven or toaster oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Enjoy a crispy, personal pizza.
Garlic & Olive Oil Pasta
This simple dish uses only a few ingredients and is surprisingly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 serving of pasta (about 1 cup)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, parmesan
Instructions:
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and garlic until fragrant.
- Toss in cooked pasta, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Quesadilla with a Twist
An easy meal that can be made with basic pantry items.
Ingredients:
- 1 tortilla
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- Optional fillings: beans, chicken, veggies
Instructions:
- Place tortilla in a pan, sprinkle cheese and fillings on half.
- Fold in half and cook until cheese melts, flipping once.
- Serve with salsa or sour cream if you have it.
Overnight Oats
No cooking needed! Prep these oats the night before for a grab-and-go breakfast.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- Optional: honey, yogurt, fruit
Instructions:
- Mix oats, milk, and any extras in a jar.
- Refrigerate overnight and top with fruit or nuts in the morning.
Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie
Quick, cheap, and full of nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 cup milk or water
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth, and enjoy!
Basic Fried Rice
A great way to use leftover rice and make it a full meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 egg
- ½ cup frozen vegetables
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan, scramble the egg, then add veggies.
- Stir in rice, soy sauce, and heat everything through.
Upgraded Instant Ramen
Add a few extras to your ramen to make it more filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 pack instant ramen
- 1 egg
- Optional: green onions, veggies, or spinach
Instructions:
- Cook ramen according to the package.
- Add an egg to poach in the broth and throw in any veggies you like.
Tips for Budget Cooking in College
- Buy in bulk for staples like rice, pasta, and oats.
- Freeze leftovers to save both time and money.
- Use versatile ingredients like eggs, frozen veggies, and tortillas.
With these easy, budget-friendly recipes, you’ll be able to save money and build your cooking skills. Enjoy the process and experiment with different flavors to make these meals your own!
Recent Comments