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
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
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
Photo by Max Faucher
Mouthwatering Super Bowl appetizer? Check. Recipe here.
4. Ramen Burger
Photo by Taylor Widom
For when you’re feeling trendy and adventurous. Recipe here.
5. Turkey Chili
Photo by Steph Cozza
Warm, delicious, and ready in only 20 minutes. Recipe here.
6. Pizza Bread Pudding
Photo by Alex Furuya
Bet you never thought you’d eat pizza like this. Recipe here.
7. Sriracha Mushroom Burger
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
Photo by Natalie Beam
So creamy and delicious no one will know it’s vegan. Recipe here.
9. Tater Tot Grilled Cheese
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
GIF by Alex Waxenbaum
You’re gonna wanna bookmark this one. Recipe here.
11. Salami and Provolone Hot Pocket
Photo by Amanda Guido
You’ll never make a microwave Hot Pocket again. Recipe here.
12. 3-Chili Mac ‘n Cheese
Photo by Phoebe Melnick
Your mom won’t believe you’ve upgraded to this recipe.
13. Goldfish-Crusted Buffalo Mozzarella Sticks
Photo by Alex Waxenbaum
Goldfish and melted cheese. Double win. Recipe here.
14. Brunch Chilaquiles
Photo by Helena Lin
Have drunk brunch from the comfort of your own home. Recipe here.
15. Cheetos Crispy Treats
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
Photo by Julia Benson
An appetizer guaranteed to impress. Recipe here.
17. Sriracha Eggs Benedict
Photo by Kathleen Kennedy
Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Recipe here.
18. Bacon Mashed Potato Cheese Bombs
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
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
Photo courtesy of foodbeast.com
There’s no reason that waffles should be eaten exclusively at breakfast. Recipe here.
21. Waffle Pizza
Photo by Phoebe Melnick
Nothing involving pizza is ever a bad idea. Recipe here.
22. Cacio E Pepe
Photo by Andrew Seah
Show all your friends how cultured and sophisticated you are. Recipe here.
23. Walking Taco
Photo by Steven Shaltiel
Perfect for dinner on the go. Recipe here.
24. Spicy Open Face Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
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
Photo by Rob Arrasate
Honestly, you deserve these. Recipe here.
GIF courtesy of giphy.com