Hey there, fellow college students! You already have enough on your plates - classes, assignments, little to no sleep - you shouldn’t have to worry about what you’re going to eat too. As a college student myself, I have scoured the internet and my own kitchen to put together some budget-friendly meal prep ideas that are also quick and easy to make. So let’s get started!

1. Mason Jar Salads 🥗

Mason jar salads are not only Instagram-worthy but also practical and affordable. All you need are some mason jars and your favorite veggies, proteins, and dressings. Layer your ingredients in the jar, with the dressing at the bottom, and voila - your salad is good to go. When you’re ready to eat, simply shake it up, and enjoy a fresh salad at your desk. Plus, you can make them ahead of time, so you don’t have to think about meal prep throughout the week.

A mason jar filled with layers of colorful veggies and salad dressing

2. Overnight Oats 🥣

If you’re looking for a filling and delicious breakfast for those early morning classes, overnight oats are an excellent option. They are quick to make and can be customized to your taste. Combine a half cup of rolled oats, a half cup of milk, a tablespoon of chia seeds, and your favorite sweetener and/or toppings in a jar or container, and let it refrigerate overnight. In the morning, give it a good stir, and you’re good to go!

A mason jar with a spoonful of overnight oats topped with nuts, berries, and honey

3. Rice and Bean Bowls 🍚

Rice and beans are simple and affordable ingredients that can go a long way. Combine them with some of your favorite veggies, proteins, and seasonings, and you have a healthy and hearty meal that will keep you fueled all day. You can make a big batch of rice and beans at the beginning of the week and simply add different ingredients to switch up the flavors throughout the week.

A bowl of brown rice and black beans topped with slices of avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges

4. Quesadillas 🧀🌮

Quesadillas are quick, easy, and customizable. Simply add your preferred fillings - cheese, veggies, meat, etc. - between two tortillas and cook it on a skillet until the cheese melts. You can also make a big batch and reheat them in the microwave throughout the week. Plus, they can be a great way to use up leftover ingredients you may have from other meals.

A skillet with a crispy quesadilla, with melted cheese and slices of chicken, avocado, and tomatoes spiling out

5. Sheet Pan Dinners 🍴

Sheet pan dinners are an easy and nutritious meal prep option. All you have to do is arrange your preferred protein and veggies on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven. You can marinate the protein and veggies beforehand to give them extra flavor. Plus, there’s only one dish to clean up - a win-win!

A sheet pan filled with roasted salmon, broccoli, and sweet potatoes fresh out of the oven

I hope these meal prep ideas have inspired you to eat healthily while also saving time and money. Plus, by choosing to eat at home, you’re also reducing your environmental impact, which is always a good thing. Happy meal prepping!

A group of smiling college students eating their meal prep creations in a dorm room