If you grew up Irish, like myself, you know that potatoes are the staple of just about every meal in your home. From breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in-between, potatoes are good at any moment during the day. However, if you haven’t been exposed to the wonders of the potato, these seven recipes will open up your eyes to how diverse and fun these seemingly boring vegetables can be.

1. Bacon Mashed Potato Cheese Bombs

Potato

Photo by Amy Erikson

If the name itself doesn’t make your mouth water, then just wait until you bite into these cheesy balls of mashed potato goodness. You’ll eat a dozen before you remember that these aren’t necessarily good for you. But who really cares, because potatoes are vegetables, right?

2. Potato Candy

Potato

Photo by Elizabeth Layman

I’d be willing to bet that you’ve never thought to incorporate potatoes into candy. But you’ll reconsider any doubts once you combine potatoes with vanilla extract and peanut butter. The pairing of the peanut butter and potato will, no doubt, make your stomach happy.

3. Baked Sriracha Potato Chips

Potato

Photo by Mary Sullivan

Say goodbye to potato chips that leave your fingers covered in a thin layer of grease. Swap out the package potato chips and go for these instead. It’s a snack that will definitely impress your friends (and they don’t even have to know how easy these are to make).

4. Cheesy Sweet Potato Wedges

Potato

Photo by Lauren D’Amore

If you are looking for a healthier snack option, then the cheesy sweet potato wedges are the way to go. The sweet potato is balanced perfectly with the gooey cheese. Drizzle a small amount of melted mozzarella cheese on top… or drizzle a lot.

5. Potato Soup with Bacon, Cheddar, and Scallion

Potato

Photo by Christine Chen

Just another recipe that shows how perfect the trio of potato, bacon, and cheese is. This heartwarming soup will make you feel like you are sitting in your bright kitchen at home, even though you’ll probably be eating it in your musty dorm room.

6. Chickpea, Sweet Potato, and Apple Farro Salad

Potato

Photo by Katherine Baker

For such a hearty meal, it’s surprising that this will only take you 15 minutes total to prepare. The components of the apple farro, sweet potato, and chickpea all mixed together in one bowl will give you the energy you need to tackle the day, and you’ll feel great after eating it.

7. Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Cookies

Potato

Photo by Katie Lee

Eat as many of these cookies as you want, and feel little guilt about it. The sweet potato mixed with the maple cinnamon gives a lighter, airy feel to the cookie, while still incorporating the yumminess of the best cookies out there. Less sugar and chocolate = happier college student (in the end).