We all have those days: too lazy to go through the process of cooking at home, but too broke to order food. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Below, you’ll find five easy ways to use your microwave to create easy, no-mess meals (okay not always “meals”).

1. Eggs

Grab 2 eggs, a dash of water, some salt and pepper, and mix it all together in a microwave safe bowl. Cook in the microwave for 30 second intervals until the eggs are fully cooked (mixing in between every interval).

Pro tip: grease your bowl with a little olive oil or butter ahead of time to prevent the egg from sticking. Mix in some ham and cheese if you’re feeling really ambitious.

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Photo by Sherry Xiao

2. Potatoes

The most obvious one on the list. Simply poke some holes in the potato of your choice and place it on (or wrap it in) a paper towel. Then, microwave for 4-7 minutes depending on the size of the potato (it’s done when its soft). When it’s done, slice it in half and add some butter, salt and pepper.

How To Steam a Sweet Potato in the Microwave

Photo by Amanda Gajdosik

3. Veggies

Want to eat healthy but are crunched for time? You can steam almost any veggie in the microwave (and no it doesn’t have to be the frozen bag of microwavable veggies). Put your veggies in a microwave safe bowl, and fill the bottom of the bowl with a little water. Cover the bowl with a plate and throw it in the microwave for 2-4 minutes depending on how soft you want your veggies. Boom, steamed veggies.

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Photo by Alex Weiner

4. Pasta

Easiest way to do this is to go out and buy a Fasta Pasta online. This is extremely useful for anyone living in a place without a stove top or oven. All you do is throw your spaghetti or any shaped pasta you desire into the Fasta Pasta with some water and microwave it for about 10 minutes. I recommend adding some olive oil, paremesan cheese and some red pepper flakes for an added kick. Just don’t tell your Italian mother what you’re doing.

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Photo by Lily Allen

5. Cookies

Have a sweet tooth but too lazy to bake? Don’t just eat the cookie dough raw, microwave it on a plate or in a mug and enjoy hot, gooey cookie dough instantly. Add sprinkles for good measure.

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Photo by Alex Weiner

Bonus microwave tips:

  • Soften brown sugar
  • Restore crystallized honey
  • Save stale chips

Well there you have it. You’re not an official college student until you have had some good old-fashioned microwaved eggs. Enjoy.

Want more microwave recipes? Check out these links below: