Cooking as a college student can be challenging, especially when you’re juggling classes, work, and social life. But, with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious meals that won’t break the bank or take too much time. Here are some easy meal ideas perfect for busy college students that only require a handful of ingredients! 

Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of mac and cheese? All you need are pasta, cheese, and milk for this classic meal. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups pasta 

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) 

• 1 cup milk 

Instructions: 

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. 
2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the cheese and milk. 
3. Stir over medium heat until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly. Enjoy! 

A college classic, avocado toast is quick, nutritious, and totally customizable! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 ripe avocado 

• 2 slices of bread (whole grain is a good choice) 

• Salt and pepper (optional) 

Instructions: 

1. Toast your bread to your preferred crispiness. 
2. Mash the avocado with a fork and spread it onto the toast. 
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and you’re ready to dig in. You can also add a fried egg or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. 

A simple, filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, with just three main ingredients! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken (or any cooked chicken) 

• 2 tortillas 

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.) 

Instructions: 

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place one tortilla in the pan. 
2. Sprinkle half the cheese on the tortilla, add the chicken, then top with the rest of the cheese. 
3. Place the second tortilla on top and cook until the cheese is melted and both sides are golden brown. Slice and serve with salsa or sour cream if you like. 

This no-fuss recipe saves time and dishes, and you can add any veggies or proteins you like. 

Ingredients: 

• 8 oz pasta 

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth 

• 1 can diced tomatoes (with juices) 

Instructions: 

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. 
2. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens (about 10-12 minutes). 
3. Add Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if you have it! 

Perfect for breakfast or a post-workout snack, this smoothie is healthy and packed with protein. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 banana 

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter 

• 1 cup milk (or a milk alternative) 

Instructions: 

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender. 
2. Blend until smooth, and enjoy a quick, nutritious treat! 

This dish is a great way to use leftover rice and can be customized with any veggies or protein you have on hand. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups cooked rice (day-old works best) 

• 2 eggs 

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 

Instructions: 

1. Heat a little oil in a pan, crack the eggs, and scramble them. 
2. Add the rice and stir, breaking up any clumps. 
3. Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and stir to combine. You can also toss in any leftover veggies or meats. 

Stir-fries are fast, nutritious, and require just a few ingredients. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 bell pepper (sliced) 

• 1 chicken breast (sliced thin) 

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 

Instructions: 

1. Heat a little oil in a pan and cook the chicken until fully cooked through. 
2. Add the bell pepper slices and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. 
3. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to coat the chicken and peppers. Serve over rice or noodles. 

Craving pizza? These mini pizzas are made using English muffins, and you can top them with whatever you like! 

Ingredients: 

• 2 English muffins 

• ½ cup marinara sauce 

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 
2. Split the English muffins in half and spread marinara sauce on each half. 
3. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and any toppings you have (pepperoni, veggies, etc.). 
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 

Baked potatoes are versatile and filling, and you can top them with just about anything! 

Ingredients: 

• 2 russet potatoes 

• 2 tablespoons butter 

• Salt and pepper 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). 
2. Pierce the potatoes with a fork and bake directly on the oven rack for 45 minutes or until tender. 
3. Split the potatoes open and top with butter, salt, and pepper. You can also add cheese, sour cream, or bacon bits if you have them. 

These easy meals require minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for busy college students who need to eat well without spending too much time in the kitchen.