Easy and Cheap College Dishes?

Hey guys, I'm going to be starting college soon and I'll be on a tight budget. Do you have any suggestions for 'easiest and cheapest college dishes' that I can consider? Has anyone tried making such dishes and can share their experience?

Here are three budget-friendly and easy dishes that you can consider:

1. Stir-Fry: You can buy frozen mixed vegetables and a protein of your choice like tofu or chicken, which you can often find on sale. Saute them in a pan with some garlic and soy sauce. You can serve this over rice, which is quite cheap and filling.

2. Pasta: This is a versatile and inexpensive staple. You can vary your sauces - marinara, alfredo, or even just olive oil and garlic. Add a protein like canned tuna or frozen veggies to make it more substantial.

3. Beans and Rice: This is inexpensive and packed with protein. You can buy canned beans for convenience, but dry beans are even cheaper (though they require soaking and longer cooking). You can add flavor with spices like cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder, or even a packet of taco seasoning.

For all these dishes, cooking in bulk and using leftovers can save both time and money. Many students have found that not only do they save money by cooking at home, but they also start to enjoy the process of preparing their own meals. Plus, it's a great skill to have beyond college! Remember to keep an eye out for sales at your local grocery store, and don't be afraid of the frozen food aisle - frozen veggies and proteins are often just as nutritious as fresh, but at a fraction of the cost.