Whether it’s your first or last year of college, it’s normal to feel homesick at the beginning of the semester. The cure: comfort food. That dish your mom—or in this case my mom—has been making for what seems like forever. The best part about this recipe? It’s cheap, delicious, and only five ingredients total. You can make as little or as much as you want—it also makes great leftovers (yes, I’ve eaten it for breakfast).

Ingredients:

• 1 box penne pasta noodles
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 medium cloves of garlic or 1 large clove
• 1 package thick-slice ham
• 1 package shredded parmesan cheese
• Cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the noodles according to the package directions. While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil and garlic in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Chop ham into ¼-inch cubes. Add ham to the skillet, stirring occasionally.
3. Drain the noodles and add to skillet. Once ham and noodles are heated through, stir in parmesan cheese to your liking. Finish with cilantro, if using, and serve.