11 Cheap Student Meals That Will Keep You Full

cheap student meals

As a student, you are always looking for ways to save money. Eating out can get expensive, especially if you are eating at restaurants every day. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 cheap student meals that will keep you full and help you save money!

1. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is beloved by people of all ages. And, best of all, it's inexpensive and easy to make.

For a quick and satisfying meal, simply boil some macaroni noodles and mix them with a jar of your favorite cheese sauce.

Add in some diced tomatoes or frozen peas for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish is also highly versatile. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add in other ingredients like bacon or hot sauce.

Whether you're eating it on its own or pairing it with a salad or other sides, mac and cheese is a delicious and filling meal that won't break the bank.

2. Hot Dogs

For many college students, finding affordable and satisfying meals can be a challenge.

However, there are some cheap student meals that can help to keep you full without breaking the bank. One of these is the humble hot dog.

Hot dogs are not only inexpensive but also filling, thanks to their high protein content. In addition, they can be easily customised to suit your taste.

For example, you can add ketchup, mustard, or relish to your hot dog, or you can opt for a more substantial topping like chili or sauerkraut. Best of all, hot dogs can be cooked in a matter of minutes, making them perfect for busy students on the go.

So if you're looking for a cheap and filling meal option, be sure to give hot dogs a try.

3. Peanut butter and jam quesadillas

Peanut butter and jam quesadillas are a cheap and easy meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.

All you need is a tortilla, some peanut butter, and your favorite jam. Spread the peanut butter on one half of the tortilla, then top with jam. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a hot skillet for a few minutes until crispy.

Serve with a side of fruit or veggies and you've got a complete meal that's perfect for busy college students on a budget.

Best of all, this recipe is easily customizable so you can make it your own by using different types of nut butter or jam.

So next time you're looking for a quick and filling meal, give this peanut butter and jam quesadilla a try!

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic lunchtime favorite, and for good reason. Not only are they delicious, but they're also filling and relatively inexpensive.

To make a grilled cheese sandwich, all you need is some bread and cheese. You can also add other toppings, such as tomatoes, bacon, or avocado. If you're feeling really hungry, you can even add a second slice of bread.

The best part about grilled cheese sandwiches is that they're easy to make. Simply butter the bread, add your favorite cheese, and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

In just minutes, you'll have a hot and hearty meal that will help you power through your afternoon classes.

5. 2-Minute noodles with a side of vegetables

2-Minute noodles are a cheap and easy option for students who want a quick meal. However, they are often high in sodium and lack the nutrients that your body needs to stay healthy.

A better option is to add a side of vegetables to your noodles. This will help to boost the nutrient content of your meal and keep you fuller for longer. Try adding a handful of chopped kale or spinach to your noodles, or stir-frying some mushrooms, onions, and peppers to add bulk and flavour.

With a few simple additions, you can turn a humble bowl of 2-Minute noodles into a hearty and satisfying meal.

6. A peanut butter and jam sandwich with an apple

Peanut butter and jam sandwiches are a classic lunchtime staple for a reason - they're cheap, easy to make, and surprisingly filling.

Just two slices of bread, a dollop of peanut butter, and a generous helping of your favorite jam will give you enough energy to power through a long day of classes.

And adding an apple to your sandwich will not only up the nutritional value, but it will also help to stave off hunger later in the afternoon.

So if you're looking for a cheap and easy meal that will keep you full until dinner, PB&J is the way to go.

7. Grilled cheese and tomato soup

One of the best things about grilled cheese and tomato soup is that it is so cheap and easy to make.

All you need is some bread, cheese, and a can of soup. And yet, this simple meal is somehow both comforting and satisfying. The gooey cheese and rich soup make it the perfect meal for a cold winter day.

Plus, it's filling enough to keep you going until dinner time. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal that won't break the bank, give grilled cheese and tomato soup a try. You won't be disappointed.

8. Spaghetti with garlic bread

Spaghetti with garlic bread is a cheap, filling meal that is ideal for students on a budget.

The spaghetti only costs a few rand to buy, and the garlic bread can be easily made at home with some bread and garlic cloves. This meal is also very filling, due to the high carbohydrate content of the pasta.

In addition, it is relatively easy to make, which makes it a great option for busy students. So if you're looking for a cheap, filling meal that will help you get through your studies, spaghetti with garlic bread is a great choice.

9. Quesadillas with refried beans and rice

Students are often on the lookout for cheap, easy meals that will help them get through the day.

One such meal is quesadillas with refried beans and rice. This dish is simple to make and can be easily customised to fit your taste. For added protein, you can include shredded chicken or ground beef. And for a touch of sweetness, try adding some chopped onions and diced tomatoes.

Quesadillas are hearty and filling, making them an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner.

So next time you're looking for a cheap meal that will help you make it through the day, give quesadillas a try. You won't be disappointed.

10. Tuna salad on whole wheat bread

As a university student, you know that eating on a budget is important. After all, you have to pay for tuition, books, and other essentials.

That said, you also know that eating healthy is important. After all, you need the energy to make it through those long study sessions! Luckily, there are some cheap and healthy meals that will help you stay fueled throughout the day. One such meal is tuna salad on whole wheat bread.

Tuna is a great source of protein, which will help to keep you full and focused. Whole wheat bread provides complex carbohydrates that will give you lasting energy. Plus, this meal is easy to make ahead of time and doesn't require any cooking skills!

11. Oatmeal

For varsity students on a budget, finding affordable and nutritious meals can be a challenge.

Oatmeal is a great option for those looking for a hearty and filling meal that won't break the bank. Oatmeal provides complex carbohydrates that will keep you feeling full until your next meal.

Oatmeal is also a good source of fibre, which can help to regulate digestion. Plus, it's quick and easy to make - just add water and microwave for 2 minutes. With so many benefits, it's no wonder that oatmeal is one of the most popular cheap student meals around.

So, there you have it. 11 cheap meals that will keep you full and help you stay on budget. These recipes are all easy to make and use ingredients that are common and affordable. What’s not to love? Give some of these recipes a try and let us know how they turn out!