Everyone has a hectic schedule in college. Whether it’s classes, jobs, internships or volunteering responsibilities, there is always something going on. Sometimes it gets so hectic that you have to go without rating or buying food (which can get pretty expensive after awhile). With these easy dinners that have perfect leftovers, you will never have to worry about what you’re going to eat the next few days.
1. Crockpot Cheesy Potato Soup
A crockpot is every busy person’s best friend when it comes to making dinner. This super easy potato soup recipe can be made throughout the day so that it will be (mostly) ready by the time your get home from your long day.
Find the recipe here: http://dearcrissy.com/crock-pot-cheesy-potato-soup-recipe/
A Healthier Alternative: Slow Cooker Skinny Loaded Potato Soup
Find the recipe here: http://www.thecookierookie.com/slow-cooker-skinny-loaded-potato-soup/
2. Lasagna
If you’re really pressed for time when making it, use the no boiling required lasagna noodles. They work just as well, and make preparing the lasagna a lot quicker!
Find the recipe here: http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/lasagna/
If you’re not a big fan of traditional lasagna, or are a vegetarian, check out these alternative recipes:
Alternative: Chicken Pesto Lasagna Rolls
Find the recipe here: http://traceysculinaryadventures.com/2012/09/chicken-pesto-lasagna-rolls.html
Alternative: Veggie Lasagna
Find the recipe here: http://www.food.com/recipe/vegetarian-lasagna-14684
3. Chili
A timeless soup that is perfect for, pretty much, any occasion. There are so many variations, but this is the classic, beef recipe. With white chicken chili, black bean chili, and vegetarian chili – the possibilities are endless!
Find the recipe here: http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/slow-cooker-family-favorite-chili/c6f4c4e2-8298-4d9d-8f21-d4ca19d35cb7
4. Stews
Stews are perfect for those days where you just need to throw a slew of ingredients into a slow cooker and leave. Luckily, there are variations to each and every stew that will cater to your time-locked needs (although some cooking may be required if you choose a beef option).
Find recipes here: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/beef-stew-recipe3
http://www.food.com/recipe/slow-cooker-beef-stew-274772
Alternative: Vegetable Stew
Find the recipe here: http://www.brandnewvegan.com/recipes/vegetable-stew
5. Meatloaf
Another classic dish that warms up pretty well. You can make a sandwich out of the leftovers, or simply warm it up as is.
Find the recipe here: http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/meat-loaf-recipes-0/meat-loaf-roasted-tomatoes
6. Vegetable Curry
Loaded with rice, vegetables and spicy-goodness, this recipe is perfect for those days that you’re in a rush. Throw everything in the crockpot and enjoy this when you get home (after you make the rice – but instant will work).
Find the recipe here: http://www.food.com/recipe/no-hurry-vegetable-curry-287128
7. Baked Pesto Chicken
This is a simple recipe that will make cooking it a breeze. Pair it with your favorite rice or veggie (or both) and you have a healthy dinner as well as healthy leftovers.
Find the recipe here: http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2010/09/easy-recipe-for-baked-pesto-chicken.html
8. Enchiladas
A staple recipe for anyone that loves Mexican food. Easy to make and even easier to warm up, this can be a multiple-day meal that you will actually enjoy.
Beef Enchiladas:
Find the recipe here: http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/easy-beef-enchiladas/c43a8fe7-628d-4f29-8492-1c7f87b05bc9
Vegetarian Enchiladas:
Find the recipe here: http://cookieandkate.com/2016/vegetarian-enchiladas-recipe/
9. Cheesy Pesto and Chicken Pasta Bake
Baked cheesy, pesto pasta goodness that will melt in your mouth for days.
Find the recipe here: https://communitytable.parade.com/26570/donnaelick/cheesy-pesto-and-chicken-pasta-bake/#.UI_vix_9FI4.pinterest
10. Taco Soup
It’s tacos. In soup form. Is this the future? (BTW this recipe is amazing. If you garnish it with sour cream, shredded cheese and Doritos/tortilla chips, it’s heaven in a bowl)
Find the recipe here: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/16678/slow-cooker-taco-soup/
11. Spaghetti
Simple. Easy. Cheap. Classic.
Find the recipe here: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/158140/spaghetti-sauce-with-ground-beef/
If you have extra time or certain dietary needs, these alternatives are great for those that cannot have much pasta or just want a healthier dinner.
Alternative: Zucchini Pasta
Find the recipe here: http://www.inspiredtaste.net/29992/garlic-zucchini-pasta-recipe/
Alternative: Spaghetti Squash
Find the recipe here: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/spaghetti-squash-with-marinara-recipe
Always remember – side dishes are super easy to warm up! If you prepare any kind of potato, vegetable or even rice, they can be warmed up along with these main courses (again). Or, if you just like veggie dinners, that’s another option. There are countless possibilities, so take these recipes and tailor them to your favorite tastes.
Happy cooking!