(Almost) Free Meals: Best Meal Kit Delivery Services to Try in

Life is busy, and meal kit delivery services have transformed the way we approach cooking and eating at home, offering options to suit virtually every lifestyle, budget, and dietary preference. Gone are the days of gathering unique recipes and trying to locate all the ingredients at your local grocer to be a home chef. Whether you’re a gourmet enthusiast looking for creative recipes, a busy professional in need of ready-to-eat meals, or a health-conscious eater seeking plant-based options, the variety of meal delivery services available has something for everyone.
There are also some often overlooked benefits of meal services as you can learn new cooking methods and techniques, customize proteins and ingredients, and even match more tailored dietary needs. These services provide convenience that makes mealtime both simpler and more enjoyable. In this guide, we explore 12 of the top meal delivery services, highlighting their unique features, best use cases, and any offers or referral benefits to help you choose the one that fits your needs.
12 Best Meal Kit Delivery Services:
Marley Spoon
✦ BEST OVERALL ✦
Sign-up offer: New customers can save up to $235 on their first five boxes.
Meal type: Prep kit—ingredients and recipes provided for home cooking.
Best for: Gourmet-inspired meals with dietary customizations.

Marley Spoon is designed for food lovers who enjoy elevated recipes with minimal hassle and is one of the best overall meal kits. The service offers a broad menu inspired by Martha Stewart’s recipes, with dishes such as Thai coconut curry and Mediterranean chicken. Customers often commend the high-quality ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, which is increasingly important for meal kit companies. Its app is praised for being user-friendly, making meal planning and delivery adjustments easy. While some users find portion sizes modest, the sustainability practices and focus on reducing food waste appeal strongly to eco-conscious households.
Rewards:
- Up to $10 cash back with Top Cashback
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $20 cash back on $60+
- Refer a friend and they get a FREE box, you get market freebies
HelloFresh
Sign-up offer: New customers can get up to 10 free meals + free breakfast for life
Meal type: Prep kit—fresh ingredients are included, with easy-to-follow recipes for home cooking.
Best for: Variety of meal options and fast, family-friendly recipes.

HelloFresh is a leader in the meal kit space, known for its broad appeal and focus on convenience. Its wide-ranging menu includes options like quick meals, calorie-smart choices, and family-friendly recipes. Customers often highlight the freshness of ingredients and the straightforward nature of the recipes, making it ideal for beginners or busy households. The service is flexible, allowing users to swap meals and customize their orders easily. While the portions might feel modest for larger appetites, the overall quality and variety make HelloFresh a dependable choice. Additionally, its commitment to eco-friendly packaging and minimizing food waste is a notable benefit.
Rewards:
- Up to 15% cash back with Rakuten
- Amex and Chase sometimes have card offers of up to 20% cash back
- Referrers can earn credits for free meals when friends sign up
Blue Apron
Sign-up offer: First-time customers can get 30% off their first 5 weeks.
Meal type: Prep kit—ingredients and step-by-step recipes for cooking at home.
Best for: Home cooks seeking approachable, chef-designed recipes.

Blue Apron is one of the original meal kit pioneers, offering chef-inspired recipes that cater to both novice and experienced cooks. Its rotating weekly menu includes balanced meals with options for vegetarians, wellness-focused diets, and families. Many customers enjoy creative yet accessible recipes, like seared chicken with lemon-parmesan sauce or za’atar-spiced vegetables. Blue Apron has earned praise for its ingredient quality and its ability to make home cooking feel elevated without being overwhelming. Some users, however, find that prep times can occasionally run longer than estimated. Its commitment to sustainable sourcing and recyclable packaging adds an extra layer of appeal.
Rewards:
- Up to $50 cash with Top Cashback, or up to $30 cash back with Rakuten
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $25 cash back on $50+
- Chase sometimes has card offers for 15% cash back
- Refer a friend and they get 50% off their 1st box
Green Chef
Sign-up offer: Get up to 65% off your 1st box and then 20% off for 2 months
Meal type: Prep kit—ingredients and recipes for health-focused cooking.
Best for: Organic and diet-specific meals, including keto and plant-based options.

Green Chef stands out for its commitment to organic ingredients and tailored meal plans for specific diets like keto, paleo, and vegan. Many customers highlight the exceptional flavor and quality of the meals, appreciating the emphasis on health and sustainability. Recipes like sesame-crusted chicken or Moroccan-inspired bowls deliver robust flavors while adhering to dietary guidelines. Some users note that portions are smaller than expected, but the convenience and health focus more than compensate for this. Green Chef’s eco-conscious packaging also earns frequent praise.
Rewards:
- Up to $10 cash with Top Cashback, or up to 15% cash back with Rakuten
- Amex sometimes has card offers for 20% cash back
- Refer a friend and they get 50% off their 1st box
Sunbasket
Sign-up offer: New customers can get up to $90 off their first four boxes.
Meal type: Prep kit and ready-made—choose from recipes to fit your schedule.
Best for: Healthy meals with organic and sustainable ingredients.

Sunbasket combines health-focused meal kits with the option for ready-made meals, giving customers the flexibility to choose their cooking level. The service prioritizes organic produce, responsibly sourced proteins, and diet-specific options such as Mediterranean or gluten-free. Customers love the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the creative recipes. Ready-made meals, like chicken tikka masala, are especially popular for their flavor and convenience. Some users find it pricier than competitors, but the quality and ethical sourcing justify the cost for many.
Rewards:
- Up to $10 cash back with Honey
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $20 cash back on $65+
- Refer a friend and they get up to $90 off their first four deliveries, you get $40 credit.
Gobble
Sign-up offer: New customers can get their first box for as little as $36.
Meal type: Prep kit—meals are partially prepped for faster cooking.
Best for: Quick prep meals that feel homemade.

Gobble specializes in meals that can be cooked in 15 minutes or less. With pre-chopped ingredients and partially cooked components, the service offers a unique balance between convenience and home cooking. Customers appreciate the time savings and flavors of dishes like steak with mashed potatoes or shrimp scampi. While it’s pricier than some alternatives, the prep time savings make it worth it for busy households or professionals.
Rewards:
- Up to $30 cash back with Rakuten, or up to $12 cash back with Top Cashback
- Refer a friend and they get their first box for $18 (+ free shipping), you get a $20 credit.
Factor
Sign-up offer: New customers can get 50% off across their 1st box.
Meal type: Ready-made—fully cooked meals delivered fresh, not frozen.
Best for: Convenient, chef-prepared meals that cater to fitness goals.

Factor focuses on providing nutrient-rich, ready-to-eat meals tailored to busy lifestyles. Its menu includes options for keto, high-protein, and calorie-smart diets. Customers rave about the fresh flavors and convenience, with dishes like herb-crusted salmon and creamy chicken Alfredo. Meals heat up quickly, making them perfect for those with little time to cook. While the cost may seem higher than some competitors, Factor’s premium ingredients and variety of fitness-oriented meals justify the price for many who prioritize quality per serving.
Rewards:
- Up to 45% cash back with Rakuten
- Amex sometimes has card offers for 20% cash back
- Refer a friend and they get 50% off their 1st box, you get a $40 credit.
CookUnity
Sign-up offer: New customers can get 50% off their 1st box.
Meal type: Ready-made—meals crafted by chefs, delivered fresh.
Best for: Restaurant-quality meals from diverse cuisines.

CookUnity delivers chef-crafted, prepared meals that bring restaurant-quality dining to your home. Its rotating menu includes a wide array of flavors, such as miso-glazed cod or spicy Moroccan lamb. Customers appreciate the gourmet touch and variety, with meals that cater to dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan. The portions are satisfying, and the ingredients are consistently fresh. Some users find it slightly expensive, but the culinary expertise and quality make it worthwhile.
Rewards:
- Up to 40% cash back with Top Cashback, up to 15% cash back with Capital One Shopping or Rakuten
- Amex sometimes has card offers for 30% cash back
- Chase sometimes has card offers for 15% cash back
- Refer a friend and they get $60 off, you get credit.
EveryPlate
Sign-up offer: New customers can get 50% off their 1st box.
Meal type: Prep kit—simple recipes and ingredients for home cooking.
Best for: Budget-friendly meal kits with family-friendly recipes.

EveryPlate is a great option for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality. The service focuses on simple, crowd-pleasing meals like spaghetti Bolognese or barbecue chicken. Customers enjoy the low-cost and easy-to-follow recipes, making them ideal for families or students. While the ingredients aren’t as premium as some competitors, the value for money is a significant draw. Its straightforward approach to meal kits keeps preparation quick and hassle-free.
Rewards:
- Up to 15% cash back with Rakuten
- Refer a friend and they get a FREE box, you get a $20 credit.
Dinnerly
Sign-up offer: New customers can save up to $140 off their first 5 boxes.
Meal type: Prep kit—5 simple steps for home cooking.
Best for: Low-cost meal kits with flexible serving sizes.

Dinnerly caters to those seeking budget-friendly meals with no frills. The service offers basic yet tasty recipes like tacos, stir-fries, and pasta dishes. Customers appreciate the large portions and the ability to feed families at a lower cost. While it lacks the bells and whistles of pricier competitors, Dinnerly delivers on simplicity and value. Some users mention that the recipe cards are digital-only, which may not suit everyone, but the low prices and quality ingredients are a winning combination.
Rewards:
- Up to $10 cash back with Honey
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $10 cash back on $45+
- Refer a friend and they get a FREE box
Fresh!
Sign-up offer: New customers can get 30% off their first 2 orders.
Meal type: Ready-made—fully cooked meals delivered fresh.
Best for: Affordable, healthy meals for busy lifestyles.

Fresh! offers a variety of meals designed for convenience and balance. Customers enjoy the flavorful options, which are crafted to be both nutritious and satisfying. Meals are ready to eat in minutes, making it a great choice for those looking for the best meal delivery options with tight schedules. While some mention a limited menu compared to other services, the consistent quality and affordability make it a reliable option for everyday dining in the prepared meal delivery market.
Rewards:
- Up to 10% cash back with Rakuten or Top Cashback
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $25 cash back on $65+
- Refer a friend and they get 40% off their first 2 orders, you get a $50 credit.
Thistle
Sign-up offer: New customers can get 40% off their 1st box.
Meal type: Ready-made—plant-based meals delivered fresh.
Best for: Plant-based meals with vibrant flavors.

Thistle focuses on health-conscious, plant-forward meals with vibrant ingredients, making them ideal for a vegan meal. Its menu features items like quinoa bowls and green smoothies, designed to nourish and energize. Customers often praise the fresh, flavorful options and the convenience of having ready-to-eat meals. However, some find the pricing higher compared to other services. Thistle’s focus on sustainability and health makes it a popular choice for those seeking clean eating with minimal effort.
Rewards:
- Chase sometimes has card offers for 10% cash back
- Amex sometimes has card offers for $20 cash back on $100+
- Refer a friend and they get up to $120 off their first 5 weeks, you get a $60 credit.
Which Meal Kit Service is Right for You?
Meal delivery services have redefined convenience, making it easier than ever to enjoy high-quality, delicious meals at home. Whether you’re focused on health, affordability, gourmet flavors, or quick preparation, the options on this list offer solutions for every type of eater. With the added perk of first-time customer incentives and referral programs, these services not only simplify your dining experience but also allow you to get some (almost) free meals and share the benefits with friends and family. Explore these offerings to find your perfect match and enjoy the ease of mealtime tailored to your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a meal prep kit?
A meal prep kit is a package that includes all the ingredients and recipes you need to prepare delicious meals at home. You typically receive pre-measured ingredients, which makes cooking easier and reduces food waste. With a meal kit service, you can choose from a variety of options, making it a flexible choice for your weekly cooking routine.
What is a prepared meal kit?
A prepared meal kit is a package that includes ready made meals that can be heated and served within minutes. You typically receive recipes that are made to order and ready to heat and eat. You can still choose the options that are best for you, making prepared meal services a quicker option with fewer requirements.
How do meal delivery services work?
Meal delivery services operate by allowing you to select meals from their weekly menu refreshes, which they then prepare and deliver right to your door. Some services, like Blue Apron or Marley Spoon, focus on meal kits that you cook yourself, while others, like Factor or CookUnity, offer fully prepared meals. You can often customize your orders based on dietary preferences or family size, making them convenient for everyone.
Are meal kits worth the money?
This really depends on your lifestyle and cooking habits. If you’re someone who enjoys cooking but doesn’t have the time to shop for groceries, then a meal kit delivery service might be a great option for you. They can be more affordable than dining out, especially when you factor in the cost of takeout. Plus, you’ll likely find it easier to stick to a budget with a meal plan that outlines your meals for the week.
What are the best meal delivery services for families?
Families tend to love services that offer a variety of options and kid-friendly meals. Some of the top picks include EveryPlate, which has customizable meals, and Dinnerly, known for its budget-friendly prices. Look for services that allow you to choose how many meals you want per week to fit your family’s schedule and preferences.
Can I find vegan meal kits?
Absolutely! Many meal kit companies now offer vegan meal options. Services like Thistle, Green Chef, or Purple Carrot specialize in plant-based meals, making it easy for you to enjoy healthy and delicious dishes without any animal products. Just check their menus to see what meal options are available each week.
Editor’s note: Opinions shared in this article are solely the author’s and do not represent the views of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other organization. The content has not been evaluated, approved, or endorsed by any of the mentioned entities. These are our recommendations but it isn’t financial advice. We may receive a commission if you click through any of the links in this article.
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