As the end of the semester rolls around, the more focus we put on our studies, the less time we might have to care about what we choose to eat. Similarly, the colder the weather gets, the less likely we might enjoy leaving the warmth of our rooms and walking to any food establishment on campus. Want something to eat that will feed you and your soul that you can make in your dorm? Here are four microwave recipes that are perfect for the cold weather:

1. Mashed potato, a versatile favorite

What you will need:

• 1 peeled potato
• 1 tablespoon butter (give or take depending on your preference) 
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Pinch of salt, pepper and other seasonings to taste
• Bowl
• Knife
• Fork

How to do it:

Remove the skin of the potato and chop into equal sized pieces. Place in a covered bowl (you can use a plate to cover). Cook on full power in the microwave for 5 minutes, or until soft and mashable. (Note: the bowl will be hot!) Add butter, milk, salt, pepper and other seasonings (such as dill) and mash all ingredients together.

1. Mac and cheese, an easy, cheesy classic

What you will need:

• ½ cup pasta (elbows or shells)
• ½ cup water 
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup shredded cheese
• Bowl

How to do it:

Stir together the pasta, water and salt in a deep, microwave safe bowl. Microwave in two-minute intervals until the pasta is cooked (if foam overflows, carefully take out and stir earlier). Stir the cheese and milk into the pasta. Microwave in 20-second intervals and stir until the cheese is your desired meltiness. Best when eaten immediately.

1. Fudge, for when you want something sweet

What you will need:

• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 6 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla
• Optional: chopped nuts
• Bowl
• Small food storage container/ baking dish

How to do it:

Line a small food storage container or baking dish with foil or parchment paper and coat with butter or cooking spray. Stir together the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Add the vanilla (and optional nuts) and stir until the chocolate chips are melted. Spread into the prepared dish, refrigerate for 1-2 hours and remove from dish when cooled.

1. Black Bean Tortilla Soup, beyond the can

What you will need:

• ¾ cup chicken broth
• ½ can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 3 tablespoons salsa
• Optional: 1 teaspoon chopped cilantro 
• ½ teaspoon lime juice
• 5 tortilla chips, crushed
• 2 tablespoons shredded cheese
• Mug

How to do it:

In a mug, combine chicken broth, black beans and salsa and microwave for 2 minutes. Add lime juice and optional cilantro and top with crushed tortilla chips and cheese. Microwave for 30 more seconds.

As with most things that are made in the microwave, please handle each dish with caution, as they will be hot. Enjoy!