Winter break is a glorious time for college students all across America. It’s a time filled with family bonding, BFF reunions, holiday cheer, marathon rounds of Netflix, copious amounts of eating, and much-needed relaxation. And let me just place an especially heavy emphasis on the “copious amounts of eating” part.

But, amazing as it is, we must remember that break is fleeting. And therefore, it should be appreciated and utilized to its full capacity. So after it ends and you’re forced to return to the world of dining hall mystery meat and ramen galore, take full advantage of your dorm kitchen and make these comfort foods that have a college twist.

1. Cheetos Meatballs

comfort foods

Photo by Nancy Gao

Whether you use the regular, limon, jalapeño, or any other flavor of Cheetos, you’re bound to find that one perfect flavor to use with this recipe.

2. Queso Mac ‘n Cheese

comfort foods

Photo by Dylan Barth

Next time you need a quick snack or are feeling innovative after a night out, just throw in some pre-made queso with your mac ‘n cheese and you’ve got yourself an original work of art.

3. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

comfort foods

Photo by Max Faucher

Mouthwatering Super Bowl appetizer? Check. Recipe here.

4. Ramen Burger

comfort foods

Photo by Taylor Widom

For when you’re feeling trendy and adventurous. Recipe here.

5. Turkey Chili

comfort foods

Photo by Steph Cozza

Warm, delicious, and ready in only 20 minutes. Recipe here.

6. Pizza Bread Pudding

comfort foods

Photo by Alex Furuya

Bet you never thought you’d eat pizza like this. Recipe here.

7. Sriracha Mushroom Burger

comfort foods

Photo by Kirby Barth

You can spread your Sriracha on top of your burger, or you can infuse it. Real sriracha fans will do both with this recipe.

8. Sweet Potato Mac ‘n Cheese

comfort foods

Photo by Natalie Beam

So creamy and delicious no one will know it’s vegan. Recipe here. 

9. Tater Tot Grilled Cheese

comfort foods

Photo by Arden Sarner

Crispy, gooey, spicy, and only 4 ingredients. You’ll want to break out the waffle iron and make this recipe ASAP.

10. Waffle-Battered Chicken Wings

comfort foods

GIF by Alex Waxenbaum

You’re gonna wanna bookmark this one. Recipe here.

11. Salami and Provolone Hot Pocket

comfort foods

Photo by Amanda Guido

You’ll never make a microwave Hot Pocket again. Recipe here.

12. 3-Chili Mac ‘n Cheese

comfort foods

Photo by Phoebe Melnick

Your mom won’t believe you’ve upgraded to this recipe.

13. Goldfish-Crusted Buffalo Mozzarella Sticks

comfort foods

Photo by Alex Waxenbaum

Goldfish and melted cheese. Double win. Recipe here.

14. Brunch Chilaquiles

comfort foods

Photo by Helena Lin

Have drunk brunch from the comfort of your own home. Recipe here.

15. Cheetos Crispy Treats

comfort foods

Photo by Maria Serghiou

They’re hot, they’re sticky, they’re gooey, they’re good. If you don’t believe me, try this recipe for yourself.

16. Mushrooms Stuffed With Spinach and Artichoke Dip

comfort foods

Photo by Julia Benson

An appetizer guaranteed to impress. Recipe here.

17. Sriracha Eggs Benedict

comfort foods

Photo by Kathleen Kennedy

Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Recipe here.

18. Bacon Mashed Potato Cheese Bombs

comfort foods

Photo by Amy Erikson

Add some mashed potatoes, batter and a little love and what do you have? This recipe full of cheesy, greasy, bacon-y, potato-y goodness that your taste buds will be forever grateful for.

19. Peanut Butter Bacon Sandwiches

comfort foods

Photo by Christin Urso

What’s better than bacon? Bacon with literally anything else. Try this recipe next time you’re craving a classic PB&J.

20. Beer Batter Waffle with Carne Asada

comfort foods

Photo courtesy of foodbeast.com

There’s no reason that waffles should be eaten exclusively at breakfast. Recipe here.

21. Waffle Pizza

comfort foods

Photo by Phoebe Melnick

Nothing involving pizza is ever a bad idea. Recipe here.

22. Cacio E Pepe

comfort foods

Photo by Andrew Seah

Show all your friends how cultured and sophisticated you are. Recipe here.

23. Walking Taco

comfort foods

Photo by Steven Shaltiel

Perfect for dinner on the go. Recipe here.

24. Spicy Open Face Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

comfort foods

Photo by Colleen Daly

So delicious you won’t even miss that second piece of bread. Recipe here.

25. Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese Jalapeño Poppers

comfort foods

Photo by Rob Arrasate

Honestly, you deserve these. Recipe here.

comfort foods

GIF courtesy of giphy.com