It’s no secret college dining hall food is no match for our mother’s lasagna; however, most of the food at NIU is pretty good. However, pizza can get pretty dull after the millionth time I scarf slice after slice down.

One day while eating at New Hall, I was hit with food inspiration, foodspiration if you will. I ordered some chicken tenders and glanced at the sandwich station next to it. Then it hit me as my taste buds were jumping for joy: buffalo chicken wrap.

After this ingenious masterpiece, I was determined to find more ways to keep things at the dining halls interesting and tasteful. Here are some recipes you can use at the dining halls to spice things up.

Buffalo chicken wrap

If you’re hankering for something spicy, this is the perfect lunch choice. Order a wrap from the sandwich station with lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese and ranch. Then hop on over to the grill for chicken tenders, and top it off with hot sauce.

Grilled cheese and tomato soup 

On the special occasion when the dining hall actually has tomato soup, order a grilled cheese to go with it. A classic combo for a cold day or if you’re looking for some comfort food.

Chili burger

A chili burger is a spicy twist on the classic cheeseburger. Order a burger from the grill and top it off with some chili and shredded cheddar cheese. It’s light enough for lunch yet hearty enough for dinner.

McGriddle

If pancakes happen to be  available during breakfast, grab two fluffy cakes and add eggs, cheese and bacon to the middle. Not exactly like the real McGriddle, but it’ll get you close with the savory taste of bacon.

Ice cream and cereal

Tired of your soggy cereal in the morning? Liven it up by swapping out the milk with ice cream. After all, it’s a well known fact that ice cream makes everything better.

Root beer float  

Grab a cup and fill it about halfway with vanilla ice cream and fill the rest with root beer from the drink dispenser. An easy yet well thought out way to make an excellent late night dessert. 

McGriddle

If pancakes happen to be available during breakfast, grab two fluffy cakes and add eggs, cheese and bacon in the middle. Not exactly like the real McGriddle, but it’ll get you close with the savory taste of bacon.

Ice cream and cereal

Tired of your soggy cereal in the morning? Liven it up by swapping out the milk with ice cream. After all, it’s a well known fact ice cream makes everything better.

Chicken and waffles

If you’re a fan of this southern dish, then you’ll be happy to know the dining halls allow you to make a waffle during breakfast hours and top it with chicken tenders and maple syrup. Plus, it’s acceptable to eat for breakfast and lunch.