For many college students, finding time for a decent lunch can feel overwhelming. Between classes, studying, and part-time jobs, grabbing a quick bite can often turn into a challenge. Instead of waiting for a table at a campus dining hall or opting for pricey fast food, there’s a simpler solution: microwaveable meals.
These ready-to-eat options are usually cheaper and require little to no preparation. I decided to put them to the test by eating only microwaveable meals for a week, keeping my budget under $25. In a dining hall, lunch can cost up to $11, so this challenge could save me a bundle.
Day 1: Panera Soup
I kicked off the week feeling under the weather, so I chose a microwavable corn chowder from Schnucks for $6.50. Although it was filling, it took longer to heat than I expected, and most of the ingredients were stuck at the bottom. I’d give it a 5 out of 10.
Day 2: Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese
Next up was a mac and cheese bowl from Walmart for $2.76. It was a letdown. The noodles were overcooked, and the flavor was off. I’d rate it a mere 3 out of 10.
Day 3: Southwest Chicken Bowl
I discovered a treasure with the Healthy Choice burrito bowl, also $2.76. It tasted fresh, and I didn’t feel weighed down afterward. I’d give it a solid 9 out of 10.
Day 4: Fried Chicken Meal
For nostalgia, I tried a Hungry Man meal. The chicken tasted processed, and while not terrible, it left much to be desired. This one scored a 5 out of 10.
Day 5: Stouffer’s Mac & Cheese
I paid $4.25 for a generous serving of mac and cheese at Dollar General. While better than the previous ones, it still wasn’t great. I’d give it a 6 out of 10.
Day 6: Fettuccine Alfredo
This Michelina’s meal was an old favorite at just $1.30. It was alright, though the noodles were too soft. Still, it earned a 6.5 out of 10.
Day 7: Spicy Fried Chicken Bowl
A Devour meal caught my eye, and I was pleasantly surprised. It had good flavor and a kick of spice, earning an 8 out of 10.
Day 8: Nashville Hot Chicken
I concluded the week with a Banquet bowl for $3. The flavor was nice, but the overall quality was disappointing. I’d rate it a 3 out of 10.
In total, I spent $28.53, which was slightly above my $25 goal. Regardless, I saved a lot compared to dining hall prices. Microwaving these meals took about five minutes each, so while they save time, the taste often felt lacking.
Surveys show that convenience is key for busy students. A recent study highlights that 63% of college students prefer quick meals due to their hectic schedules. While some microwaveable meals can be decent, they often shouldn’t be your go-to option. For healthier choices, brands like Healthy Choice stand out, while Michelina’s offers good budget-friendly options.
If you find a couple of meals you enjoy, they can certainly provide a quick solution during busy days. Just remember that variety can improve your overall eating experience.
