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Easy Meals That Take No Time for Busy College Students

College life can get hectic with packed schedules, late-night study sessions, and social activities. Eating out might seem convenient, but it can quickly drain your wallet. Luckily, there are plenty of easy meals you can whip up in no time to fuel your busy days. Check out these simple and quick meal ideas perfect for college students on the go! 

1. Microwave Scrambled Eggs

When you’re pressed for time but need something nutritious, microwave scrambled eggs are a lifesaver. All you need is a microwave-safe mug and a few eggs. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 eggs 
  • Splash of milk (optional) 
  • Salt and pepper to taste 
  • Shredded cheese (optional) 

Instructions: 

  1. Crack eggs into a mug, add milk if desired, and whisk with a fork. 
  2. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds or until fully cooked. 
  3. Add salt, pepper, and cheese, and you’re good to go! 

Pro Tip: Toss in some pre-cooked veggies or deli meat for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. 

2. One-Pot Pasta

Pasta is a college staple, and this one-pot version makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. With minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in under 20 minutes. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup pasta 
  • 1 ½ cups water or broth 
  • ½ cup marinara sauce 
  • Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese 
  • Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions: 

  1. Add pasta, water, and a pinch of salt to a pot and bring to a boil. 
  2. Cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. 
  3. Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. 
  4. Sprinkle with cheese, salt, and pepper. Done! 

3. Quesadilla in Minutes

Quesadillas are a versatile and satisfying meal that you can customize with whatever you have on hand. They’re also quick to make and easy to clean up! 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 tortilla 
  • Shredded cheese 
  • Cooked chicken, beans, or veggies (optional) 
  • Salsa and sour cream (optional) 

Instructions: 

  1. Place the tortilla in a hot skillet and sprinkle one half with cheese. 
  2. Add any cooked protein or veggies on top. 
  3. Fold the tortilla over and cook until the cheese is melted, flipping once. 
  4. Serve with salsa and sour cream for dipping. 

4. Overnight Oats

Mornings can be rushed, but with overnight oats, you can have a nutritious breakfast ready when you wake up. Just prepare it the night before, and you’ll have a grab-and-go meal. 

Ingredients: 

  • ½ cup rolled oats 
  • ½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative) 
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional) 
  • Toppings like fruit, nuts, or honey 

Instructions: 

  1. Mix oats, milk, and chia seeds in a jar or bowl. 
  2. Add your favorite toppings, seal, and refrigerate overnight. 
  3. In the morning, give it a stir, and enjoy cold or warmed up! 

5. Ramen Stir-Fry

Ramen noodles are a budget-friendly favorite for college students, but you can elevate them into a more substantial meal by turning them into a stir-fry. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 pack instant ramen (ditch the seasoning packet) 
  • 1 cup frozen stir-fry veggies 
  • Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce 
  • Cooked protein (optional) 

Instructions: 

  1. Cook ramen according to package instructions and set aside. 
  2. Sauté frozen veggies in a pan with a little oil until heated through. 
  3. Add the ramen noodles and soy or teriyaki sauce, and toss everything together. 
  4. Optional: Add cooked protein like chicken or tofu. 

6. Mason Jar Salads

If you need a quick, portable meal, mason jar salads are a perfect solution. They’re great for prepping ahead of time and storing in the fridge for easy access. 

Ingredients: 

  • Greens (spinach, lettuce, etc.) 
  • Protein (chicken, beans, hard-boiled eggs) 
  • Veggies (tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots) 
  • Salad dressing 

Instructions: 

  1. Layer the ingredients in a mason jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom to avoid soggy greens. 
  2. Follow with proteins, veggies, and top with the greens. 
  3. When ready to eat, shake it up and enjoy! 

7. Microwave Mac and Cheese

Craving comfort food but don’t have time to cook a full meal? Microwave mac and cheese is a game-changer. 

Ingredients: 

  • ½ cup elbow macaroni 
  • ½ cup water 
  • ¼ cup shredded cheese 
  • Splash of milk 

Instructions: 

  1. Combine macaroni and water in a large microwave-safe bowl. 
  2. Microwave for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through. 
  3. Stir in the cheese and a splash of milk, then microwave for another 30 seconds. 
  4. Mix until creamy and enjoy! 

8. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is a trendy, nutritious, and super easy meal that’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. Plus, it takes less than five minutes to prepare! 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 slice of bread, toasted 
  • ½ ripe avocado 
  • Salt, pepper, and seasoning (like red pepper flakes or garlic powder) 

Instructions: 

  1. Mash the avocado on top of your toasted bread. 
  2. Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. 
  3. For extra flavor, top with a fried egg or tomato slices. 

These quick and easy meals are perfect for busy college students looking to save time and money without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Whether you’re between classes or studying late into the night, these recipes will keep you fueled without the fuss! 

CPFSU

Author CPFSU

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