You probably won’t have access to a kitchen in your college dorm room, but don’t fear, you don’t have to give up on cooking just yet. There are plenty of options to save you from constantly running back and forth to the cafeteria, and indulging in quick but expensive meals.

With a little creativity and the help of some small appliances that’ll fit perfectly into your dorm room, there’s actually a ton of meals you can cook in your own makeshift kitchen. Of course, there are rules for each college about what is allowed, so check with your college first. Take a look at these 5 appliances you’ll need!

1. Mini Fridge

One of the most important small appliances you need in your college dorm room, is, of course, the mini fridge. This Igloo Erase Board Refrigerator will come in handy for storing all your favorite plant-based dishes. The best part of this mini fridge is its erase board feature. Take note of birthdays, assignments and grocery lists by simply writing on the front of the fridge door. It has an adjustable thermostat, an ice cube tray, and glass shelves, too. 

With over 300 reviews on Amazon, it’s easy to see that this mini fridge is a favorite for college students and small space living alike. Texas Paul said, “I ordered this refrigerator for my office. It arrived on time and in perfect condition. The size is perfect for what I needed. I plugged it in and turned it to the coldest setting. I honestly thought it wasn’t working because I couldn’t hear any sound coming from it. It was working just fine and cooled off quickly. No issues at all with how this refrigerator works.” Get it for $99.98.

2. Rice Cooker

This handy appliance comes in a variety of sizes, and is always necessary, especially for a vegan in college. Since rice is such a big part of a plant-based diet, this is absolutely vital.  Sure, it is the easiest way to make perfect rice, but it’s also a convenient way to cook a wide variety of foods. You can even use it to make oatmeal, frittatas, steamed vegetables and beans. This Hamilton Beach Rice & Hot Cereal Cooker is perfect for all of these things. 

It boasts more than 400 Amazon reviews. Julio said, “Omg!!! I love this thing!!! I had bought the smaller one but it was too small. Upgraded to the 20 and it’s amazing. I have made rice in it and just now made pasta. Good stuff!!!” You can purchase this for $40.71!

3. Blender

Okay, so you don’t actually cook anything in a blender, but this is your ticket to smoothies, dips, soups, and if you have a big enough freezer, even homemade nice cream, and parfaits. As a vegan in college, being able to make quick smoothies before class is important. As we all know, the NutriBullet is the best blender and food processor of all time. Easily blend up or puree your favorite dishes and on-the-go meals.

The NutriBullet has plenty of fantastic reviews on Amazon. Joshua Shea says, “This was a great purchase! It’s sturdy, well made and blends like a dream. I packed mine full of kale, cucumber, celery and pineapple chunks and the NutriBullet wasn’t even fazed. Can’t wait to try more recipes.” Get it for $55.60!

4. Toaster

If you’ve ever had a toaster you understand that its usefulness is unmatched. Use it to make all your avocado toasts perfectly crisp, or to toast your whole wheat wraps. It heats up easily and is perfect for quick breakfasts and lunches, like bagels and homemade mini pizzas. This Hamilton Beach Cool Wall 2-Slice Toaster will make the perfect addition to your mini space. 

This toaster has over 1,000 reviews on Amazon. Sealy said, “This toaster is great! We bought this toaster to go in the trailer for when we go camping. It is nice and compact. The toast comes out toasted evenly and the settings allow the toast to not be burnt. The color is great and it is easy to clean.” Get it for $24.89!

5. Hot Plate

Hot plates are a fantastic item for any vegan and college student to have in their small space. With a hot plate, you can make just about anything you can create on a traditional stove top, making this kitchen tool extra useful and versatile for those low on space and budget! It has a quick heat up to save time, adjustable temperatures, and quick cooking uses. Before class, use this to make some pan-fried tofu or grilled cashew cheese sandwiches. This Kitchen Countertop Cast-Iron Single Burner is portable and tiny. 

Amazon reviewer, AZMom2Many said,”I got this for my sister as her housewarming gift for her first apartment. The one in her apartment is less than ideal and since she doesn’t cook much this is all she will need. Good price!” Purchase one for only $32.99!

6. George Foreman Grill

If you want to cook faux meat, tofu, or something other than steamed veggies in the microwave, this is truly the way to do it. You can easily make vegan grilled cheese, cauliflower steaks, or portabello burgers. This George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill and Panini Press are essential for college students, and you’ll hardly notice it taking up any space at all. Just make sure to unplug it after use! This one has an adjustable hinge, non-stick coating, removable plates for easy cleaning and has a temperature indicator light.

Amazon reviewer Razel42 gave it a 5-star rating and said, “Amazing product! I have bought this product 3 times before and as always it doesn’t disappoint.” Purchase one for $29.92!

7. Coffee Maker

A coffee maker is a given for every college student. On those mornings when yoga, ice cold water, and a smoothie just simply won’t wake you up, coffee will always do the trick. Coffee makers are generally small, and easy to store and clean, so it makes it totally dorm appropriate! An expensive one isn’t necessary! Try this AdirChef Grab N’ Go Personal Coffee Maker, which comes with a travel mug. It comes in plenty of color options for personalization and will fit right on your desk. Enjoy The Healthiest Peppermint Mocha or The Easiest Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte on the Planet!

Amazon reviewer Kpro said, “This is an unexpectedly great little coffee machine! I was off to Spain where they often don’t have hotel room coffee makers – needed something lightweight and physically small – this really fit the bill. Coffee comes out super hot! Easy to clean. Quality for the price is amazing. Would highly recommend!” Get this coffee maker for $21.99!

8. Spiralizer

We wouldn’t be total vegans without a spiralizer, am I right? Spiralizers can create a variety of plant-based dishes, from root vegetables to zucchini and carrots. Make massive salads, or pasta dishes for you and your friends, either way, you’ll surely enjoy having a spiralizer. This Spiralizer 5-Blade Vegetable Slicer is perfect for cutting up tougher vegetables! Feel free to Lighten Up Summer Meals With These 15 Vegan Spiralized Noodle Dishes!

Christopher E. said, “This is one of those rare items that makes you realize how good well-designed products can be. I bought one of the small versions first, the kind you hold in one hand as you use the other hand to twist a vegetable through. It worked, but it had a couple of frustrating aspects. I know there was potential so I sprang for this more expensive spiralizer and I’m glad I did. It truly could not work better.” Buy one for just $24.99!

9. Mini Microwave

For quick meals, fast reheating, and early morning classes, a microwave comes in handy for a variety of reasons. When you don’t have access to a kitchen with an oven or stove, a microwave is, really, the next best thing. You can cook up a bunch of things, both sweet and lunch appropriate! Make these easy Fruity Microwave Mason Jar Pancakes, this 5-Ingredient Microwave Brownie, and this 2-Minute Fluffy Vanilla Mug Cake. This Daewoo KOR-7LREM Retro Microwave Oven is absolutely adorable, really small, and affordable. 

Marie Williams said, “This microwave is awesome. I personally like how simple it is. There aren’t a ton of buttons that I never use and it doesn’t use standby power.” Buy one for $87.95!

10. 3-in-1 Multifunction Breakfast Center

Last but not least, this 3-in-1 Multifunction Breakfast Center is literally a dream. It has a toaster oven, a griddle, AND a small coffee maker, all attached. If you’re really low on storage or space, definitely think about having a 3 in 1. Cook pancakes, brew your coffee and make some whole wheat toast all at the same time. Make some Beet Hummus Panini With Smashed Avocado and Greens, Tomato Baked Chickpeas Over Avocado Toast or some Basil Seed, Oat, and Spelt Pancakes!

An Amazon customer said, “This is such a great little cooking appliance to add into your dorm room. I have used all three functions almost everyday ever since I got this. It makes a cup of coffee (you actually have to fill the water up to 2 cups) within a minute. The oven works great too. I have tried cooking bagels and frozen waffles and they both turned out golden and crisp. I love it.” Buy this amazing appliance for $31.92!

Try downloading our Food Monster App, which is available for both Android and iPhone, and can also be found on Instagram and Facebook. The app has more than 10,000 plant-based, allergy-friendly recipes, and subscribers gain access to new recipes every day. Check it out!

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