10 Budget-Friendly Dorm Recipes With Simple Kitchen Tools

As university students gear up for a new term, managing both time and budget can be a challenge. Simplify your meal prep with these 10 budget-friendly dorm recipes that use essential kitchen tools. Each recipe is designed to be easy to prepare, affordable, and perfect for small spaces. Let’s explore some delicious options that make dorm life a little bit easier.

1. Microwave Mug Omelette

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated cheese
• 1/4 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)

Instructions:

1. In a microwavable bowl (500ml), whisk together eggs and milk.
2. Stir in cheese, vegetables, salt, and pepper.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until eggs are fully cooked.
4. Let it cool for a minute before eating.

2. Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss chicken and vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Spread evenly on an oven tray.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

3. No-Cook Wraps

Ingredients:

• Tortilla wraps
• 4 slices of deli meat (turkey, ham, etc.)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup salad greens
• 1/4 cup hummus or mayonnaise

Instructions:

1. Spread hummus or mayonnaise over the tortilla.
2. Layer with deli meat, cheese, and salad greens.
3. Roll tightly and wrap in cling wrap or place in a toasted sandwich bag.
4. Refrigerate until ready to eat.

4. Bamboo Skewer Veggie Kebabs

Ingredients:

• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Thread vegetables onto bamboo skewers.
2. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Roast in the oven on an oven tray for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.

5. Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (or a milk alternative)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup fresh fruit (berries, banana slices, etc.)

Instructions:

1. In a microwavable bowl (900ml), combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Stir well and cover with cling wrap.
3. Refrigerate overnight.
4. In the morning, stir in fresh fruit before eating.

6. Cake Tin Pizza

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza dough
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Roll out dough and press it into a cake tin.
3. Spread pizza sauce over the dough.
4. Sprinkle cheese and add your desired toppings.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

7. Roasted Veggies in a Roasting Bag

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs

Instructions:

1. Place vegetables in a roasting bag.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Seal the bag and place it on an oven tray.
4. Roast at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes.

8. Tasty Tuna Melts

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread
• 1/2 can tuna, drained
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Mix tuna with mayonnaise.
2. Spread the mixture onto one slice of bread and top with cheese.
3. Place the other slice of bread on top and place in a toasted sandwich bag.
4. Toast until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

9. Tin Foil Baked Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Rub potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each potato in tin foil.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.

10. Microwave Mug Cake

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons flour
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a microwavable bowl (500ml), mix dry ingredients.
2. Add milk, oil, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is set.
4. Let it cool slightly before enjoying.

FAQ / Q&A Section

1. Can I use a cake tin for baking pizza? Yes, a cake tin works well for baking pizza. Just prepare your dough and toppings, and bake as usual. It’s a great alternative if you don’t have a pizza pan.

2. How do I clean a roasting bag after use? Roasting bags are disposable and designed for single use. Simply discard the bag after cooking. No cleaning required!

3. Are bamboo skewers reusable? Bamboo skewers can be reused if cleaned properly. Soak them in water after use to remove any residues.

4. How long does a microwavable bowl last? Microwavable bowls are durable and can last for years with proper care. Avoid sudden temperature changes and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

5. What’s the best way to store cling wrap? Store cling wrap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality. Ensure it is tightly closed to prevent it from sticking to itself.