College life is exciting but can often feel like a constant balance between assignments, studying, and a tight budget. When it comes to meals, the dining hall and quick snacks may not always satisfy your needs for convenience, taste, or nutrition. But there’s good news: meal kits are becoming a practical, cost-effective solution for students who want delicious, hassle-free meals without breaking the bank.
With meal kits, you can pick recipes you love from a rotating menu, and they’ll handle all the planning, shopping, and portioning for you. These services also offer flexible, affordable options that can be delivered straight to your door. If you’re looking to save time on grocery shopping and meal prep, there are now several meal kit services designed to fit a student’s busy lifestyle, helping you eat well even on a budget.
Let’s dive into the best meal kits for college students in 2024 to see how they can make your on-campus or off-campus life a little easier.
Why Meal Kits Are Perfect for College Students
Meal kits offer more than just convenience—they’re a lifestyle upgrade that can transform the way students approach food. Here are some of the key benefits:
Time-Saving Convenience
With meal kits, the shopping and meal prep are already done for you. Just follow the provided instructions, and you’ll have a balanced, tasty meal in no time—a huge perk for those busy study sessions and late nights.
Cost-Effectiveness
Meal kits can be cheaper than dining out or buying large quantities of groceries that may go to waste. They come pre-portioned, so you’re only getting what you need, which can help keep food waste and spending in check.
Healthier Choices
Meal kits generally focus on balanced meals with fresh ingredients. For college students who might otherwise rely on fast food or snacks, this offers a nutritious and more satisfying option that doesn’t compromise health for convenience.
Learning New Recipes and Skills
Meal kits are a great way to build basic cooking skills and explore new recipes. They’re designed to be easy to follow, so even beginners can feel confident in the kitchen, and students can pick up valuable cooking skills they’ll use beyond college.
TL;DR: Best College Student Meal Kits – Quick Comparison Guide
To help you decide which meal kit best fits your needs and budget, here’s a snapshot of the top options for college students in 2024:
Meal Kit Brand | Best For | Starting Price Per Meal | Special Features |
EveryPlate | Simple, affordable meals | $4.99 | Quick and easy recipes, budget-friendly |
Dinnerly | Most budget-friendly | $4.99 | Digital recipe cards, low-calorie options |
HelloFresh | Classic, versatile meals | $9.99 | Large menu variety, beginner-friendly, fresh ingredients |
Green Chef | Organic, health-conscious choices | $11.99 | USDA-certified organic, paleo, keto options |
Factor | Ready-to-eat meals for busy schedules | $10.99 | Fully prepared meals, low-carb, keto, and vegan options |
Martha & Marley Spoon | Classic home-cooked meals | $8.95 | Curated by Martha Stewart, comfort foods |
Home Chef | Customizable and easy prep | $9.99 | Oven-ready and quick options, easy customization |
Blue Apron | Chef-inspired, restaurant-quality meals | $10.99 | High-quality ingredients, seasonal produce |
Hungry Root | Healthy meals and groceries | $8.49 | Groceries plus meals, vegan options |
SunBasket | Organic, diverse diets | $9.99 | Organic, gluten-free, paleo, Mediterranean options |
A Closer Look at Top College Student Meal Kits
Let’s explore some of the best meal kits for college students. Here’s a breakdown of each service, including features, pros and cons, and some standout meals to try.
EveryPlate – Best for Simple, Affordable Meals
EveryPlate is a great choice for budget-conscious college students who want fresh, affordable meals. Known for its simplicity and affordability, EveryPlate offers no-fuss, pre-portioned meals with easy-to-follow recipes that work for even beginner cooks.
- Price: Starting at $4.99 per serving, with frequent discounts for new users.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings, ideal for one meal with leftovers.
- Options: Five meal plans, including Meat & Veggie, Veggie, Calorie Smart, and Quick & Easy.
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly; perfect for students on a tight budget.
- Simple recipes with short prep and cook times.
- Allows mix-and-match options across meal plans for added flexibility.
Cons:
- Fewer choices for special dietary needs like gluten-free or vegan.
- Some ingredients come unsorted, so there’s minor prep involved.
Recommended Meals:
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Sausage Cavatappi: A comforting pasta dish with roasted garlic and bell peppers, rich in flavor with a creamy tomato sauce that feels indulgent.
- Spicy Black Bean and Pepper Quesadillas: These quesadillas bring a bit of heat, balanced by a smoky red pepper crema that makes each bite packed with flavor.
- Garlic Rosemary Chicken with Roasted Carrot, Sweet Potato, and Onion: A savory, aromatic chicken dish with perfectly roasted vegetables, making it a cozy, filling meal.
- BBQ Beef Bowls with Cheddar and Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Hearty and satisfying, with a rich BBQ flavor complemented by sweet potatoes and a touch of melted cheddar.
Dinnerly – Best Budget-Friendly Meal Kits
Dinnerly is another affordable meal kit option, ideal for students who want to save time and money without sacrificing quality. It focuses on basic yet filling meals with straightforward recipes, making it a great choice for beginner cooks.
- Price: Starting at $4.99 per serving.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings, perfect for one meal with leftovers.
- Options: Offers vegetarian, low-calorie, low-carb, and gluten-free friendly options.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable, even for tight budgets.
- Simple recipes that don’t take much time to prepare.
- A large variety of meals, with more than 100 recipes available each week.
Cons:
- No physical recipe cards; recipes are accessed online.
- Limited customization for dietary restrictions.
Recommended Meals:
- Salmon Cakes with Dijonnaise and Romaine Salad: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these salmon cakes pair perfectly with a tangy dijonnaise and fresh salad for a light but satisfying meal.
- Low-Cal Halal Cart-Style Chicken with Yellow Rice and Creamy Garlic Sauce: A flavorful take on classic street food, with tender chicken and seasoned rice, topped with a creamy garlic sauce for an authentic feel.
- Baharat-Spiced Beef and Hummus Bowl with Cucumber-Tomato Salad and Rice Pilaf: Middle Eastern-inspired, with fragrant baharat spices, creamy hummus, and a refreshing salad that makes for a balanced, hearty meal.
- Grilled Chimichurri Chicken and Veggies with Quinoa Pilaf and Herb Cream Sauce: This dish features juicy, marinated chicken with a fresh herb chimichurri, paired with a veggie-studded quinoa pilaf and a creamy sauce that brings it all together.
HelloFresh – Best for Classic, Diverse Meal Options
HelloFresh is a popular choice among students who want variety and ease in their meal planning. With a wide array of classic and global recipes, HelloFresh offers flexibility and fresh ingredients that make every meal feel like a treat, even on a busy schedule.
- Price: Starting at $9.99 per serving, with frequent discounts and promotions.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Typically two servings, ideal for one person with leftovers or a meal shared with a friend.
- Options: Vegetarian, Family-Friendly, Calorie Smart, and Gourmet, with over 40 weekly options.
Pros:
- High-quality, fresh ingredients with seasonal variety.
- Wide range of options, including quick meals and global-inspired recipes.
- Easy-to-follow recipe cards that suit all cooking skill levels.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other budget options.
- Portions are generous, so there may be occasional leftovers.
Recommended Meals:
- Pork Sausage Rigatoni Rosa: A creamy, comforting pasta dish with rich tomato and cream sauce, balanced with sautéed zucchini and Parmesan for a satisfying, homestyle meal.
- Chicken Gyro Couscous Bowls with Hummus and Tomato-Cucumber Salad: This Mediterranean-inspired bowl has seasoned chicken, creamy hummus, and a refreshing salad, offering a delicious, balanced meal.
- Creamy Dill Chicken with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans: A flavorful chicken dish with a tangy dill sauce, served with crispy potatoes and fresh green beans, great for a quick but hearty dinner.
- BBQ Cheddar Turkey Burgers with Crispy Onions & Coleslaw: Perfect for a casual dinner, these juicy turkey burgers are topped with melted cheddar and a side of crunchy slaw, bringing a BBQ vibe right to your table.
Green Chef – Best for Organic and Health-Conscious Meals
Green Chef is a USDA-certified organic meal kit that’s ideal for health-focused students looking for wholesome ingredients and unique flavors. Offering an array of health-conscious and specialty diet options, Green Chef provides balanced, nutrient-rich meals that take the guesswork out of healthy eating.
- Price: Starting at $11.99 per serving, with promotions for new customers.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Typically two servings, making it ideal for leftovers or sharing.
- Options: Plant-Based, Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free, and Mediterranean, with over 80 weekly recipes.
Pros:
- Certified organic ingredients with sustainable sourcing.
- Great for specific dietary needs like keto, gluten-free, and vegetarian.
- Wide variety of healthy, chef-crafted recipes.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to non-organic meal kits.
- Preparation time can vary, so some recipes may take a bit longer.
Recommended Meals:
- Japanese-Style Vegetable Fritters with Ginger Sriracha Aioli: Packed with fresh veggies and served with a spicy aioli, these crispy fritters make for a fun, flavorful meal.
- Turkish-Spiced Sockeye Salmon with Pistachio Gremolata: A gourmet-style dish with tender salmon, crunchy pistachios, and a bright gremolata, perfect for an impressive dinner.
- Tilapia with Olive Pepper Relish and Kale Salad: A Mediterranean-inspired fish dish with a refreshing salad, great for a light and healthy dinner.
- Vegan Sesame-Ginger Kale Salad: This vegan salad includes snap peas, cabbage, and crunchy cashews, all tossed in a vibrant ginger-lime dressing for a quick, nutrient-packed option.
Factor – Best for Ready-to-Eat, Healthy Meals
Factor provides chef-prepared, ready-to-eat meals for busy students who don’t have the time to cook but still want nutritious, delicious food. Perfect for those who prioritize convenience, Factor’s meals come fully cooked and are ready to heat up in just minutes.
- Price: Starting at $10.99 per meal, with frequent discounts for new customers.
- Meal Type: Fully prepared, heat-and-eat.
- Servings per Kit: Single servings, perfect for individual portions with no leftovers.
- Options: Keto, high-protein, low-calorie, vegetarian, and vegan options, with over 35 weekly choices.
Pros:
- No prep or cooking required—meals are fully cooked and simply need heating.
- Great for specific dietary needs, especially keto and low-calorie.
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients with thoughtful meal compositions.
Cons:
- Higher price per meal compared to DIY meal kits.
- Limited customization in meal structure; most meals follow a protein + veggie format.
Recommended Meals:
- Spicy Poblano Beef Bowl with Roasted Broccoli “Rice”: A satisfying, low-carb bowl with spicy beef and tender broccoli, perfect for a filling lunch.
- Jalapeño-Lime Cheddar Chicken with Cauliflower “Rice”: A tangy, zesty chicken dish with a hint of spice, ideal for a quick, flavor-packed dinner.
- Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry with Roasted Zucchini: A warm, comforting vegetarian curry with hearty sweet potatoes, spiced chickpeas, and a side of roasted veggies.
- Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole with Green Beans: A twist on classic stuffed peppers, featuring a beef casserole layered with green beans for a comforting, homestyle meal.
Martha & Marley Spoon – Best for Classic Comfort Meals
Created by Martha Stewart, Martha & Marley Spoon focuses on delivering comforting, classic meals with a gourmet touch. This meal kit is perfect for students who enjoy cooking and want to try recipes that feel a bit more upscale but still bring that homestyle comfort.
- Price: $8.95 per serving, with discounts for new subscribers.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit, great for sharing or saving as leftovers.
- Options: Meat and seafood, vegetarian, low-calorie, and low-carb options, with over 100 recipes weekly.
Pros:
- Excellent variety with classic, comforting recipes inspired by Martha Stewart.
- High-quality ingredients and larger portion sizes.
- Recipes allow for customization, with add-ons and swaps available.
Cons:
- More intricate recipes may take longer to prepare.
- Ingredients are not separated by meal, which may require extra sorting.
Recommended Meals:
- Greek-Style Salad with Avocado and Goat Cheese: A refreshing, nutrient-packed salad with creamy goat cheese and fresh avocado, ideal for a quick but satisfying meal.
- Low-Carb Lamb and Zucchini Soup with Thyme: A hearty, low-carb soup featuring tender lamb and seasonal vegetables, perfect for a cozy night in.
- Korean Veggie Stir-Fry with Cellophane Noodles: This vibrant, veggie-forward stir-fry is packed with flavor, thanks to sesame seeds and a tangy sauce.
- Sesame Chinese Chicken Salad with Fried Almonds: A crunchy, flavor-filled salad with tender chicken, perfect for a light yet filling meal with an Asian-inspired twist.
Home Chef – Best for Quick, Customizable Meals
Home Chef is an ideal choice for students who need flexibility in their meal plans and want quick and easy options. Known for its user-friendly recipes and customizable options, Home Chef offers meal kits and oven-ready and microwaveable meals to fit any schedule.
- Price: Starting at $9.99 per serving, with frequent discounts for first orders.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kits, oven-ready, and microwaveable options.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit; perfect for sharing or saving leftovers.
- Options: Low-calorie, low-carb, and vegetarian options, along with a wide range of globally inspired recipes.
Pros:
- Flexible options for busy schedules, including 15-minute meal kits and oven-ready dishes.
- Customization choices—swap or upgrade proteins to suit your taste.
- Pre-prepped ingredients available in some kits, reducing prep time.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than ultra-budget meal kits.
- Shipping costs may vary depending on the delivery area.
Recommended Meals:
- Sliced Pork Noodle Bowl with Sesame Dressing: A tasty noodle bowl with tender pork and a flavorful sesame dressing, perfect for a quick lunch.
- Weeknight Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry: A simple yet delicious stir-fry that’s packed with veggies, ideal for a balanced dinner in minutes.
- Creamy Artichoke Cacio e Pepe with Garlic Bread: A twist on a classic Italian dish with a creamy, artichoke-infused sauce and crispy garlic bread.
- One-Pot Italian-Style Sausage Zuppa Toscana: This hearty, one-pot soup combines sausage, kale, and Asiago cheese for a comforting, easy-to-make meal.
Blue Apron – Best for Elevated, Chef-Designed Meals
Blue Apron brings restaurant-quality recipes into your kitchen, making it a great choice for students who want to learn cooking techniques and try gourmet dishes. Known for its fresh ingredients and inventive recipes, Blue Apron is a solid pick for those looking to elevate their cooking game.
- Price: Starting at $10.99 per serving, with regular discounts for new customers.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit, ideal for solo meals with leftovers or sharing.
- Options: Vegetarian, low-calorie, and a variety of cuisines, including international-inspired recipes.
Pros:
- High-quality, farm-fresh ingredients with sustainable sourcing.
- Unique, chef-designed recipes that introduce new flavors and techniques.
- Great option for students interested in improving their cooking skills.
Cons:
- Higher price per meal compared to budget options.
- Some recipes may be more time-intensive and require multiple steps.
Recommended Meals:
- Chickpea Quinoa and Vegetable Cakes with Watercress Salad: A flavorful, plant-based dish with a crisp salad, perfect for a fresh and healthy meal.
- Korean Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Pickled Daikon: These wraps are light yet satisfying, with a tangy daikon garnish for extra flavor.
- Crab Cakes with Spicy Caper Mayo and Roasted Vegetable Salad: A sophisticated meal featuring crab cakes and a zesty caper mayo, ideal for a weekend treat.
- Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs with Rice and Broccoli: Juicy chicken thighs with a balance of sweet and spicy flavors, served with rice and veggies for a filling dinner.
Hungryroot – Best for Healthy, Flexible Meal Kits with Groceries
Hungryroot is a unique service that combines meal kits and grocery delivery to cater to health-conscious students. Their offerings go beyond meal kits to include snacks, pantry items, and ready-to-eat options, making it easy to build balanced, convenient meals around your schedule.
- Price: Starts at $8.49 per serving, with free shipping on orders over $70.
- Meal Type: Combination of meal kits, groceries, and prepared foods.
- Servings per Kit: Varies; flexible servings and add-ons allow for more control over portion sizes.
- Options: Extensive options for various diets, including vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and pescatarian.
Pros:
- Personalized to your tastes with a flexible grocery component.
- Offers healthy, minimally processed ingredients with a focus on whole foods.
- Extensive customization with over 1,000 items to choose from weekly.
Cons:
- Some meals are simpler than traditional meal kits.
- Requires a larger order for free shipping, which might not suit smaller budgets.
Recommended Meals:
- Spinach and Artichoke Roasted Chicken Wrap: A quick and easy wrap option, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients.
- Classic Beef Tacos with Rainbow Slaw: A fun, nutritious twist on a taco night staple, with vibrant slaw for added crunch.
- Sesame Ginger Chicken and Brussels Fried Rice: An Asian-inspired bowl with tender chicken and veggies in a tangy ginger sauce.
- Margherita Pizza with Baby Broccoli: A simple yet satisfying pizza made with fresh ingredients and topped with nutritious baby broccoli.
Sunbasket – Best for Organic, Environmentally Friendly Meals
Sunbasket is perfect for students who prioritize organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Known for its focus on quality and eco-friendly practices, Sunbasket provides organic produce and offers options for various dietary needs, including paleo, vegan, and Mediterranean diets.
- Price: Starting at $9.99 per serving, with occasional free shipping offers.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kits and prepared meals.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit; adaptable for sharing or saving for later.
- Options: Offers 21+ meals each week with options for paleo, gluten-free, vegan, and more.
Pros:
- Emphasis on organic and sustainably sourced ingredients.
- Wide range of dietary plans and quick-prep options for busy schedules.
- Eco-friendly packaging with a focus on reducing waste.
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than other meal kits due to organic ingredients.
- Menu options are less extensive than some competitors.
Recommended Meals:
- Pan-Cooked Chicken with Warm Tuscan Farro Salad: A filling meal with tender chicken and hearty farro, paired with veggies for a balanced dinner.
- Whole Grain Pita with Curried Chickpeas and Arugula Salad: A healthy, flavorful pita meal that’s both plant-based and satisfying.
- Salmon with Ricotta Polenta and Spicy Green Harissa: A restaurant-quality dish featuring wild-caught salmon and creamy polenta with a spicy kick.
Quinoa Fritters with Blueberry Salad and Walnuts: A unique, nutrient-packed meal with crispy quinoa fritters and a refreshing salad.
Choosing the Best Meal Kit for College Students
For college students, balancing academics, social life, and personal well-being often leaves little time for planning, shopping, and cooking meals from scratch. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting the best meal kit service:
Budget
College life can be costly, so finding a meal kit that doesn’t break the bank is essential. Options like EveryPlate and Dinnerly provide excellent quality at budget-friendly prices, while introductory offers from other companies make trying them out affordable.
Convenience
Services like Factor and Freshly offer pre-cooked meals that only need heating, ideal for students with packed schedules who don’t have much time for cooking.
Dietary Needs
Many meal kit services cater to a variety of dietary preferences, from vegetarian to low-calorie, keto, and even organic. Green Chef and Hungryroot are excellent for students interested in organic or health-focused options.
Flexibility
Look for meal kits that allow you to skip weeks, pause subscriptions, or easily adjust portions. This flexibility is especially helpful during exam weeks, holidays, or busy college schedules.
Variety of Options
A good mix of recipes can keep your weekly meals interesting, helping you avoid food fatigue. Meal kits like HelloFresh and Blue Apron offer large, rotating menus to keep things fresh.
How to Make the Most of Your Meal Kit Subscription
Meal kits can be a great resource for college students, but making the most of them involves a few strategies:
- Use Leftovers Wisely: Many meal kits provide two servings, which is perfect for creating leftovers. Pack up your extra portion for the next day’s lunch or dinner to save time and money.
- Take Advantage of Add-Ons: Some meal kits, such as Home Chef and Hungryroot, allow you to add extra ingredients like snacks, breakfast items, and even pantry staples. Stock up on these for quick meals and snacks throughout the week.
- Look Out for Deals: Many meal kit companies offer student discounts, introductory offers, and subscription promos that can make these services even more affordable.
- Prep Ingredients for Busy Days: If you know you’ll have a hectic week, prepare and store your ingredients when they arrive. This makes it easy to throw together a quick meal when time is short.
- Experiment with New Cuisines: One of the best things about meal kits is the chance to try new recipes and ingredients. Use this as a learning experience to expand your culinary skills and discover new favorite dishes.
Making the Right Choice for Your College Lifestyle
At The Meal Kit Review, we know that balancing academics, social life, and personal well-being can make mealtime challenging for college students. Meal kits offer a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy nutritious, delicious meals without the hassle of grocery shopping or extensive prep work.
Whether you’re on a tight budget and opt for services like EveryPlate or Dinnerly, or you’re seeking organic and health-focused options like Green Chef, there’s a meal kit out there to fit your needs. If time is of the essence, and you prefer ready-to-eat meals, Factor provides healthy options that require no cooking.
We encourage you to try a few different services to find the one that best suits your lifestyle, taste preferences, and budget. Many companies offer introductory discounts, making it easier to explore your options without a significant commitment.
