Do you ever get tired of ramen noodles and cereal? I do. That is why I have thought of my top 10 favorite meals that are easy to make and relatively cheap. These meals are also healthier than just popping something frozen into the microwave. They do require a few more minutes than you probably normally spend cooking for yourself. So, be patient and enjoy!

1. Beans and rice.

This is a great dish for many reasons. First, it tastes wonderful. Two, you can substitute your meat for this meal, because there is so much protein provided. And three, rice is great for your digestive system, so eat all you want.

2. Pasta.

This is a broad category that encompasses many great options. My favorite is classic spaghetti, but you could also try mixing in some peppers with a creamier sauce or go for chicken and spinach pasta. When it comes to noodles, the possibilities are endless. For a side item try some garlic bread or the one dollar bread from Walmart.

3. Chicken and veggies.

Chicken is actually very easy to cook. You can cook it on the stove, bake it, or, if you have your own house, you can grill it. Also, just like pasta, the possibilities are endless. You can have baked parmesan chicken, throw some spices on it on the stove, or go for the classic smoky taste from the grill. Pair your poultry with a canned or frozen vegetable and you’ve got yourself a meal.

4. Soup and sandwich.

This is a fast meal that won’t kill your stomach. Pick up your favorite canned soup and pop it in the microwave. While it’s heating up, make a sandwich to go with it. Some favorite pairs of mine are tomato soup and a grilled cheese and potato soup and a turkey sandwich. Be creative with this option!

5. Chili and cornbread.

Whip up a batch of cornbread and heat some chili up in the microwave; it’s that simple. You can find tons of cheap cornbread recipes on the internet that are easy to make, then just pair it with some great chili. You could also use your leftover chili to make a chili mac. Just cook some noodles, top it with chili and cheese, and enjoy!

6. Breakfast.

Breakfast for dinner is a classic favorite. Scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes are easy to make. You could also make your own sandwich with toast, fried bologna, and eggs. You could even do something as simple as oatmeal and some fruit. This is an option that depends on your preference of breakfast!

7. Tacos.

Tacos are easy to make any time of the day. You can cook them for dinner and save the leftovers for lunches. Cook some ground beef, stick it in a taco shell, and top it with everything you like. You could even do a taco salad with crunched up shells. And while I’m on the topic of tacos, quesadillas are really easy to make as well!

8. Hotdogs and tots.

This isn’t the healthiest choice (obviously), but it is easy to make. This could be your Friday night dinner to reward yourself. All you have to do is put the tater tots in the oven and cook the hotdogs. Then, enjoy your classic American meal!

9. Pizza and salad.

You can find all of the ingredients to make your own pizza at the store and take them back to your dorm to make a fresh pizza. There are also salads that are already made for you in the produce section. They come in a bag with dressing and all the toppings you need so that all you have to do is mix the ingredients. Try something you haven't before; I tried the strawberry vinaigrette and really enjoyed it!

10. Mac n’ cheese and a veggie.

I know that most people eat mac n’ cheese as a side dish, but try it as the main dish! There is a lot of protein packed in it so it can act as a substitute for meat. If you want, you could also slice up some ham and bake it into your mac n’ cheese. Then, pair it with a green vegetable like a salad or some broccoli. Yum!

Cooking doesn’t always have to be a chore, and you don’t have to be a master chef to cook something that tastes great. Try some of the meals listed above, and surprise yourself with how good it’ll taste. You could even invite some friends over to cook together or cook with your significant other! Make cooking fun, because that’s how it should be! I hope you enjoy these meals as much as I do!