Finding the Most Budget-Friendly Meal Prep Delivery
Many consumers are turning to meal prep delivery services to save time and reduce food waste, but the cost can vary dramatically. For those with a strict budget, identifying the most cost-effective option is crucial. While EveryPlate and Dinnerly are frequently cited as the leaders in affordability, a closer look at their features, pricing structures, and overall value is necessary to make an informed decision.
EveryPlate, a sister company of Green Chef and HelloFresh, prides itself on offering the lowest price per serving in the market. They achieve this by simplifying their recipes, utilizing more budget-friendly ingredients, and offering a streamlined service with fewer customization options. Customers receive pre-portioned ingredients and follow simple, six-step recipe cards to prepare meals in about 30 minutes. EveryPlate's value is maximized when ordering a higher number of meals per week, making it especially appealing for larger families or couples who meal prep frequently.
Dinnerly positions itself as another budget-conscious alternative, often with a price point comparable to or slightly higher than EveryPlate, depending on the plan. To keep costs down, Dinnerly uses digital recipe cards instead of printed ones, minimizing material waste and printing expenses. They also use fewer ingredients per meal than some competitors, which simplifies the cooking process and reduces food costs. This model makes Dinnerly an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate cooks who want to save money without being overwhelmed by complex recipes.
Comparing the Cheapest Meal Prep Delivery Services
To help you visualize the differences, here is a comparison of some of the most affordable meal prep services available. Note that pricing can fluctuate based on promotions, the number of meals ordered, and other factors.
| Service | Typical Price per Serving | Shipping Fee | Notable Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EveryPlate | ~$5.99 | ~$9.99 | Very simple recipes, low price point, often uses promotional offers. | Couples and families on a very tight budget who don't mind basic, hearty meals. |
| Dinnerly | ~$7.99 | ~$11.99 | Digital recipe cards, simple ingredients, good marketplace selection. | Intermediate cooks, small households, and those seeking good value. |
| Home Chef | ~$6.99–$9.99 | ~$10.99 | Family Menu option can be highly affordable, more meal customization. | Families or groups of four looking for a customizable, affordable option. |
| HelloFresh | ~$9.99 | ~$10.99 | More meal options and variety, generous portions, frequently offers discounts. | Smaller households wanting more meal variety for a slightly higher price. |
How to Choose the Best Service for Your Budget
Selecting the right service isn't just about the lowest sticker price. You must also consider your own cooking style, household size, and dietary needs. For example, while EveryPlate may have the lowest advertised per-serving price, Dinnerly's selection might appeal more to your tastes. For a family of four, Home Chef's dedicated Family Menu could ultimately be the most economical choice. Consider these factors:
- Household Size: Services typically offer lower per-serving prices for larger orders. EveryPlate, for instance, is most cost-effective when ordering multiple meals for a household of four or more.
- Cooking Experience: EveryPlate focuses on basic, simple recipes. Dinnerly is a step up but still approachable. If you are a novice cook, these simpler meal kits can be a great starting point.
- Meal Variety and Dietary Needs: If you have specific dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free), you may find the most budget-friendly services have limited options. In such cases, a slightly pricier service might be necessary to meet your needs.
- Promotions and Shipping: Factor in shipping costs and introductory offers. Many services offer deep discounts on your first box, which can significantly reduce the initial cost. Be mindful of the regular price after the promotion ends. Always check the current deals. Bon Appétit's guide to the cheapest meal delivery services offers up-to-date pricing and features.
The Final Verdict on Cheapest Meal Prep
While EveryPlate often holds the title for the absolute lowest price per serving, the true cheapest meal prep delivery service for you depends on your individual needs. For a single person, a small Home Chef plan or Even Dinnerly might be more cost-effective. For a family, EveryPlate could be the way to go. Evaluate the total cost including shipping, and weigh it against the menu variety and cooking effort required. For maximum savings, consider rotating between services to take advantage of new-customer promotions.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance of Cost and Convenience
Finding the cheapest meal prep delivery service involves more than just picking the lowest number on a menu. It requires evaluating the cost per serving, factoring in shipping fees, and considering your family's size and culinary preferences. EveryPlate and Dinnerly consistently top the list for affordability, with EveryPlate often having a slight edge on price and Dinnerly offering a bit more variety and marketplace add-ons. Ultimately, the best budget choice balances low cost with the convenience and meal options you and your family will enjoy. By comparing the services and leveraging promotional offers, you can make meal prep delivery a genuinely affordable and sustainable part of your routine.
