5 Meal Planning Kits That Save You Money

Meal planning can feel like a juggling act. From deciding what to cook every day to ensuring you don’t overspend on groceries, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s where meal planning kits come in. These kits not only simplify your weekly menu but can also help you cut down on food waste, save time, and stick to a budget. While meal kits are often seen as a luxury, there are plenty of affordable options that cater to budget-conscious households.

Why Meal Planning Kits Can Be Budget-Friendly

At first glance, meal kits might seem like an unnecessary expense compared to shopping for groceries. However, they can be surprisingly cost-effective when used strategically. Here’s how:

• Reduced Food Waste: One of the most common ways people waste money is by throwing out uneaten or spoiled food. Meal kits include pre-portioned ingredients, so you only get what you need for each recipe, drastically reducing waste.
• Time-Saving Convenience: With meal kits, there’s no need to brainstorm recipes, compile a shopping list, or wander the grocery aisles. Less time spent planning and shopping means fewer chances for impulse purchases.
• Budget Control: Knowing exactly how much you’re spending on weekly meals can help keep your food budget in check. You can select kits that fit your price preferences and avoid surprise costs at the register.

When used thoughtfully, meal planning kits can be a powerful tool for saving both time and money while reducing the stress of cooking.

Affordable Meal Kit Services to Consider

Not all meal kits come with a hefty price tag. Some companies have designed affordable subscription options to help you eat well without overspending. Here are a few budget-friendly meal kit services worth exploring:

1. EveryPlate

• Why It’s Budget-Friendly: EveryPlate is one of the most affordable meal kit services on the market, offering meals that cost as little as $4.99 per serving. They focus on simple, no-frills recipes made with everyday ingredients.
• Menu Highlights: Meals like Garlic Rosemary Chicken or Penne alla Vodka are both delicious and cost-effective. Each recipe is designed to use fewer ingredients, which helps keep costs down without sacrificing flavor.

2. Dinnerly

• Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Dinnerly keeps its costs low by sending digital recipe cards instead of printed ones and focusing on simple recipes with a handful of ingredients. Meals average around $5 per serving.
• Menu Highlights: Think dishes like Beef Tacos or Creamy Tomato Pasta, which are both easy to prepare and kid-friendly.

3. Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon (Budget Option)

• Why It’s Budget-Friendly: While Marley Spoon offers premium pricing tiers, they also feature basic package options targeted at budget-conscious consumers. This allows you to enjoy Martha Stewart-inspired recipes at a lower cost.
• Menu Highlights: Look for dishes like Veggie Stir-Fry or Lentil Soup, both hearty and affordable options.

4. HelloFresh Value Plans

• Why It’s Budget-Friendly: HelloFresh offers specific meal plans designed to cost less while still providing variety. By ordering meals with fewer high-cost proteins and more veggies, you can enjoy high-quality dishes at a lower price.
• Menu Highlights: Budget-friendly options like Creamy Mushroom Cavatappi or Sweet Potato Tacos are delicious and filling.

5. Imperfect Foods Meal Kits

• Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Imperfect Foods specializes in reducing food waste by offering slightly “imperfect” produce (think misshapen carrots or slightly wrinkled peppers). Their meal kit options follow the same principle, offering delicious, eco-friendly meals at a lower cost.
• Menu Highlights: Creative meals like Veggie and Bean Chili use affordable ingredients to create mouthwatering results.

How to Choose the Right Meal Kit Service for Your Budget

Not all meal kits will suit your needs or preferences, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here are some tips to help you select the right one:

1. Understand What’s Included

Carefully read what each meal kit includes in the box. Some services provide all the ingredients you need (oil and seasonings included), while others expect you to have pantry staples on hand. Choose a plan that minimizes your need for extra purchases.

2. Look for Promotional Offers

Many meal kit companies offer first-time customer discounts or occasional promotions. This is a great way to test out a service before committing long term.

3. Select the Right Serving Sizes

If you're cooking for a large family, choosing a kit with higher serving numbers will stretch your dollar further. Alternatively, a two-serving plan may work for couples or individuals who enjoy leftovers.

4. Pick Recipes You’ll Actually Eat

Stick to meal plans that align with your family’s tastes and dietary needs to ensure nothing on the menu goes uneaten.

5. Compare Shipping Costs

Don’t overlook delivery fees. Some kits offer free shipping once you reach a certain spending threshold, while others charge extra. Make sure to factor this into your cost comparison.

Maximizing the Value of Meal Kits

Even the most affordable meal kits can be an investment, so getting the most value out of them is key. Here are a few tips to make your subscription work harder for your wallet:

• Repurpose Leftovers: Many kits will provide enough food for more than the intended servings, especially if you're eating smaller portions. Repurpose extras into soups, salads, or sides for your next meal.
• Use Kits as Cooking Lessons: If you’re new to cooking, meal kits are an excellent way to practice basic techniques and expand your recipe repertoire. Once you’ve mastered a dish you love, recreate it later using store-bought ingredients to save even more.
• Pause or Skip Weeks: Most services allow you to skip weeks or pause your subscription without penalty, giving you flexibility to realign your spending when needed.
• Opt for Vegetarian Options: When available, choosing vegetarian meals can often reduce costs. Plant-based recipes are not only affordable but also packed with nutritional value.

With so many options to choose from and tips to stretch your budget further, there’s no reason not to give them a try. When cooking gets easier and your bank account stays fuller, meal kits start feeling less like an indulgence and more like a savvy budgeting choice.