Living solo has its perks, but meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking for one can be a challenge. Why buy a cart full of groceries when you’re cooking for just yourself? It often feels like a waste, with leftovers that sit in the fridge or ingredients that go bad before you have a chance to use them. That’s where meal kits come in—a game-changing solution for singles who crave convenience, variety, and delicious meals without the hassle of shopping or planning.
With a meal kit, you get pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipes delivered right to your door, allowing you to cook fresh, satisfying meals without the headache. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best meal kits for singles in 2024, covering everything from budget-friendly options to fully prepared meals that just need heating up. Whether you’re looking to save time, money, or simply want to explore new recipes, there’s a meal kit designed for your lifestyle.
Why Meal Kits Are Perfect for Singles
Meal kits are ideal for singles, offering flexibility, convenience, and a more personalized approach to meal planning. Here are some reasons why meal kits have become the go-to choice for solo diners:
Convenience
No need to plan meals, make grocery lists, or worry about food going to waste. With pre-portioned ingredients, meal kits let you focus on cooking and enjoying your meal, minus the extra trips to the store.
Flexible Portions
Most meal kits are designed to feed two people, but for singles, this often means cooking once and having a tasty, ready-made lunch for the next day. Some services also offer single-serving, fully-prepared meals, so you can easily mix and match depending on your schedule.
Cost-Effective
While meal kits might seem like a splurge, they can actually be more cost-effective than grocery shopping and takeout, especially when you consider the convenience factor and reduced food waste.
Health-Focused
Many meal kit services are designed with balanced nutrition in mind, offering options for various dietary needs like vegetarian, keto, or low-calorie plans. You get the benefits of a home-cooked meal with less effort, making it easier to stick to healthier eating habits.
TL;DR: Quick Guide to the Best Meal Kits for Singles
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of top services to help you quickly find the meal kit that best suits your needs. This table includes each brand’s specialty, starting price per meal, and any unique features they offer to make your decision easier.
Meal Kit Brand | Best For | Starting Price Per Meal | Special Features |
EveryPlate | Budget-friendly | $4.99 | Affordable, low-calorie, simple recipes, vegetarian options |
Dinnerly | Variety at a low price | $4.99 | 45 weekly options, vegetarian, low-calorie, and gluten-free |
HelloFresh | Extensive menu variety | $9.99 | Over 40 weekly choices, gourmet and international dishes, low-calorie, carb-smart vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan |
Factor | Fully prepared, no-cook meals | $10.99 | Ready-to-eat, high-protein, keto, vegan, low-calorie |
Martha & Marley Spoon | Classic home-cooked meals | $8.95 | Martha Stewart-inspired recipes, single servings, vegetarian, low carb and low calorie options |
Home Chef | Customizable meal kits | $9.99 | Quick-prep options, protein swaps, oven-ready meals |
Fresh and Easy | Quick meals for busy singles | $9.99 | Heat-and-eat or minimal prep, low-calorie, vegetarian |
Blue Apron | Upscale, chef-designed meals | $10.99 | Creative recipes, farm-fresh ingredients, vegetarian |
A Closer Look at the Top Meal Kits for Singles
Here’s a closer look at each meal kit service and what makes it stand out for singles. We’ll cover price, meal type, portion sizes, and customization options, plus highlight standout meals so you can find the best fit for your lifestyle.
EveryPlate – Best Affordable Meal Kits for Singles
EveryPlate is a go-to for budget-conscious singles, offering delicious, easy-to-cook meals that start at just $4.99 per serving. Known for its simplicity, EveryPlate focuses on basic but tasty recipes with fresh ingredients, making it ideal for anyone looking for affordable, no-fuss meals.
- Price: $4.99 per serving; occasional promotional offers available.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit; singles can save leftovers for the next day.
- Options: Offers low-calorie and vegetarian options with a focus on American comfort food.
Pros:
- Very affordable, perfect for those on a budget.
- Quick and easy recipes, most taking around 30 minutes.
- Offers a mix of low-calorie and vegetarian options for variety.
Cons:
- Fewer specialized dietary options compared to premium services.
- Smaller portion sizes may not be filling for larger appetites.
Recommended Meals:
- Bacon & Gouda Smothered Chicken with Green Beans & Crispy Potatoes – A hearty comfort meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
- Jammin’ Fig Pork Chops with Broccoli & Crispy Potatoes – Sweet and savory pork chops balanced with a side of greens.
- Kung Pao Beef Bowls with Green Bell Pepper & Peanuts – A quick, stir-fry-style meal for a spicy midweek dinner.
- Easy Cheesy Corn Chowder with Jalapeño, Cilantro & Sour Cream – A warm, flavorful soup perfect for cooler nights.
Dinnerly – Best Simple Meal Kits for Singles at a Good Price
Dinnerly is a fantastic option for singles who want an affordable, no-frills meal kit with plenty of variety. With prices starting around $4.99 per serving, it’s ideal for singles who enjoy basic but flavorful recipes. Dinnerly’s extensive weekly menu makes it easy to find options that suit every taste.
- Price: Starting at $4.99 per serving, with discounts on first orders.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit; great for singles who don’t mind leftovers.
- Options: Vegetarian, low-calorie, and gluten-free options; a variety of classic and international flavors.
Pros:
- Large menu selection with up to 45 meal options each week.
- Very affordable, making it perfect for singles on a budget.
- Ideal for cooking once and saving leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
Cons:
- Ingredients may be less premium than higher-end meal kits.
- Digital-only recipe cards may be inconvenient for those who prefer printed guides.
Recommended Meals:
- Herb Grilled Chicken with Roasted Potatoes & Peppers – A simple, satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up on a weeknight.
- Coconut-Gochujang Glazed Pork with Rice & Cucumber Relish – A fusion dish with a blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Cheese-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf with Peas & Mashed Potatoes – A comforting, homestyle meal with a twist on classic meatloaf.
- Speedy Skillet Chicken Enchiladas with Shredded Cheese & Scallions – Quick and satisfying, with plenty of cheesy goodness.
HelloFresh – Best Variety of Meal Kits for Singles
HelloFresh is perfect for singles who love variety and don’t mind cooking for two to enjoy leftovers. With over 40 weekly options, this meal kit offers a wide range of recipes from quick meals to gourmet-inspired dishes, making it a great choice for singles who want to explore different cuisines.
- Price: Starting at $9.99 per serving; frequent promotional offers (e.g., free first shipping).
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Minimum of two servings per meal; singles can easily save a serving for another meal.
- Options: Vegetarian, family-friendly, gourmet, calorie-smart, and a variety of international options.
Pros:
- Extensive weekly variety, ideal for adventurous eaters.
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients with straightforward recipes.
- User-friendly instructions make it easy to try new cuisines.
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than other budget meal kits.
- No single-serving plan, so leftovers are standard.
Recommended Meals:
- 20-Min BBQ Cheddar Turkey Burgers with Crispy Onions & Coleslaw – A fast, flavorful burger option with a homemade twist.
- Peppercorn-Crusted Beef Tenderloin with Brussels Amandine & Sweet Potatoes Mash – A gourmet meal perfect for a special evening at home.
- One-Pot Spicy Vegan Curry Stir-Fry with Noodles & Peanuts – A plant-based, bold-flavored dish for quick weeknight dinners.
- Crispy Cheddar Chicken with Roasted Broccoli & Loaded Bacon Mashed Potatoes – Classic comfort food with a cheesy twist.
Factor – Best Fully Prepared Meal Delivery Service for Singles
Factor takes the hassle out of cooking by providing fully prepared, ready-to-eat meals that are both nutritious and delicious. Tailored to health-conscious singles, these chef-prepared meals can be heated in minutes, making Factor a top choice for those who want convenience without compromising on quality.
- Price: Starting at $10.99 per meal, with discounts for new subscribers.
- Meal Type: Fully prepared, heat-and-eat meals.
- Servings per Kit: Single-serving meals tailored for one person.
- Options: Keto, low-calorie, high-protein, vegetarian, and vegan options available, with a wide range of cuisines.
Pros:
- No prep needed—meals arrive fully cooked and ready to heat.
- High-quality, health-focused ingredients tailored to various diets.
- Diverse menu options, including keto, high-protein, and low-calorie.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to DIY meal kits.
- Some meals follow a similar format (protein + veggie) which may feel repetitive.
Recommended Meals:
- Spicy Poblano Beef Bowl with Roasted Broccoli “Rice” & Scallion Sour Cream – A spicy, protein-packed option perfect for dinner.
- Jalapeño-Lime-Cheddar Chicken with Spicy Cilantro Cauliflower “Rice” – A zesty, low-carb meal full of fresh flavors.
- Roasted Veggie & Pesto Tortellini with Roasted Green Beans – A vegetarian pasta dish for those seeking a carb-loaded comfort meal.
- Baja Tofu, Black Beans & Rice with Roasted Red Cabbage & Vegan Cilantro Crema – A filling, plant-based option with a Tex-Mex flair.
Martha & Marley Spoon – Best Classic Home-Cooked Meals
With recipes inspired by Martha Stewart, Martha & Marley Spoon is a fantastic choice for singles who want to enjoy classic, comforting meals at home. Known for its high-quality ingredients and upscale recipes, this meal kit service is ideal for those who love cooking but want a bit of luxury in their meal choices.
- Price: $8.95 per serving; introductory discounts often available.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit; great for singles who enjoy leftovers or want to share.
- Options: Vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free options; focuses on classic American and international comfort foods.
Pros:
- High-quality ingredients with recipes inspired by Martha Stewart.
- Over 100 weekly options, including categories like Health & Diet and Under 30 Minutes.
- Elevated, comforting meals perfect for singles who enjoy cooking.
Cons:
- More time-intensive recipes, usually taking 30-45 minutes.
- Pricier than basic meal kits, though quality matches the cost.
Recommended Meals:
- Filipino Chicken Adobo with Veggie Fried Rice – A bold, savory meal that brings a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen.
- Creamy Chicken Piccata over Egg Noodles with Roasted Green Beans – A rich, Italian-inspired dish perfect for a cozy night in.
- Faster-Than-Takeout Chicken Wonton Stir-Fry with Sugar Snap Peas – Quick, flavorful, and perfect for a busy evening.
- Corn & Poblano Enchiladas with Fresh Cilantro & Pickled Onions – A vegetarian, spicy option for Tex-Mex lovers.
Home Chef – Best for Easy-to-Cook and Oven-Ready Meals
Home Chef is perfect for singles who value flexibility and variety in their meals. With options ranging from traditional meal kits to oven-ready and 15-minute quick-prep meals, Home Chef provides adaptable, easy-to-cook recipes that are satisfying and quick to prepare.
- Price: $9.99 per serving, with frequent promotional discounts.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit with options for oven-ready and quick-prep ingredients.
- Servings per Kit: Two servings; great for singles who want leftovers for another meal.
- Options: Low-calorie, low-carb, vegetarian, and flexible protein options; offers a mix of American and global-inspired dishes.
Pros:
- Quick meals, including 15-minute and oven-ready options.
- Customization available—swap or upgrade proteins for select meals.
- Pre-portioned, pre-prepped ingredients for minimal prep.
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than budget brands like EveryPlate.
- Limited variety for strict dietary plans compared to specialized services.
Recommended Meals:
- Banh Mi Burger with Sweet Chili Garlic Fries – A Vietnamese-inspired burger that’s both savory and spicy.
- Beef Stuffed Peppers with Cilantro Sauce and Fire-Roasted Salsa – A filling, flavorful meal for singles who love a Tex-Mex twist.
- Cherry Chipotle Brisket Tacos with Corn Salad – Tacos with a unique blend of sweetness and spice.
- Oven-Ready Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta with Spinach and Bacon – An easy, comforting dish for seafood lovers that’s ready in minutes.
Fresh and Easy (Home Chef Sub-Plan) – Best for Busy Singles
Fresh and Easy, a sub-plan by Home Chef, offers ultra-convenient options for singles who want quick, no-fuss meals. With pre-prepped ingredients and ready-to-heat meals, this plan is perfect for anyone with a packed schedule who still wants a satisfying, home-cooked meal.
- Price: $9.99 per serving; first box ships free with some promotions.
- Meal Type: Ready-to-cook or heat-and-eat options.
- Servings per Kit: Primarily single-serving meals, with some two-serving options for leftovers.
- Options: Low-calorie, low-carb, and vegetarian; a mix of American and fusion flavors.
Pros:
- Minimal prep required with ready-to-cook or heat meals.
- Variety of options for low-carb and low-calorie diets.
- Perfect for singles with a busy lifestyle and little kitchen time.
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to Home Chef’s main menu.
- Price can be slightly higher compared to DIY meal kits.
Recommended Meals:
- 15-Minute Caprese Steak Strip Mini Flatbreads with Mozzarella – A quick Italian-inspired meal with a fresh Caprese twist.
- Grill-Ready Chili Lime Pork Chop with Teriyaki Broccoli – A savory, tangy dish with just the right amount of spice.
- Oven-Ready Basil Parmesan Chicken with Zucchini & Grape Tomatoes – A healthy, oven-ready meal with a Mediterranean flair.
- Sizzling Pork Fajita Tacos – Flavorful and quick to prepare, these tacos are perfect for a busy weeknight.
Blue Apron – Best Upscale Meal Kits for Singles
Blue Apron is ideal for singles who enjoy cooking sophisticated, chef-inspired dishes at home. With unique ingredients and a focus on restaurant-quality meals, Blue Apron’s recipes are perfect for those who want a gourmet dining experience without leaving home.
- Price: $10.99 per serving; frequent promotional discounts for new subscribers.
- Meal Type: DIY meal kit.
- Servings per Kit: Minimum two servings, ideal for singles who enjoy gourmet leftovers.
- Options: Low-calorie, vegetarian, and a variety of international flavors; upscale, restaurant-quality recipes.
Pros:
- High-quality, gourmet meals that elevate home cooking.
- Creative recipes with ingredients that encourage culinary exploration.
- Focuses on sustainability with farm-fresh and responsibly sourced ingredients.
Cons:
- Higher price point than other meal kits.
- Recipes may take more time and effort to prepare.
Recommended Meals:
- Soy-Miso Pork Belly & Kimchi Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs & Furikake – A rich, savory dish for ramen lovers looking to try something new.
- Ready-to-Cook Hot Italian Sausage & Gnocchi with Mozzarella & Tomatoes – Italian comfort food with a quick prep.
- Seared Scallops & Pancetta Risotto with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Grapes & Pistachios – A restaurant-quality meal with sophisticated flavors.
- Chicken & Goat Cheese Sauce over Asparagus & Romesco Farro – A unique, gourmet dish for a cozy night in.
How Singles Can Make Meal Kits Work for Them
Though many meal kits are designed with couples or families in mind, singles can still enjoy the benefits of meal kits with a few tailored strategies. Here’s a look at some of the top tips and suggestions to make meal kits work better for single-serving needs.
Order for Two and Enjoy Leftovers
Ordering two-person meal kits and using the second portion as leftovers for the next day is a simple, efficient way to get the most out of meal kits. This approach reduces food waste, saves cooking time, and allows you to enjoy a fresh, homemade meal without extra effort. For best results, select meals with ingredients that reheat well, making them ideal for next-day enjoyment.
Use Meal Kits as a Base Recipe and Customize
Meal kits can serve as a starting point that you can easily adjust to fit your needs. Adding a few extra ingredients from your pantry can help you tailor portions or adjust flavors, giving you the flexibility to create a meal that’s both convenient and personalized.
Explore Pricing Options for Different Budgets
Meal kit costs can vary, and choosing the right service depends on your budget and preferences. EveryPlate and Dinnerly are popular for their affordability, followed by Home Chef. More premium kits like HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and Marley Spoon offer higher-end ingredients and more diverse menus but at a higher price point. Trying introductory offers is a great way to sample these services and find the right fit.
View Meal Kits as a Learning Opportunity
While meal kits may be more expensive than cooking from scratch, they provide the convenience of pre-portioned ingredients, introduce variety, and offer a hands-on way to learn new recipes. Meal kits can feel like a cooking class at home, with each kit introducing new recipes and ingredients to try.
Supplement with Meal Prep and Budget-Friendly Recipes
For those balancing cost and convenience, combining meal kits with meal prepping offers the best of both worlds. Meal prepping remains the most budget-friendly approach, followed by meal kits, and lastly, ready-to-eat meals.
How to Choose the Best Meal Kit for You
Finding the right meal kit as a single person involves considering your lifestyle, budget, and dietary preferences. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:
Budget
With meal kits, costs can range widely, so think about your weekly meal budget. Services like EveryPlate and Dinnerly are among the most affordable, while options like HelloFresh and Blue Apron offer premium meal choices at a slightly higher price. Trying introductory offers can also help you test out various services affordably.
Cooking Time
Figure out how much time you want to spend preparing meals. If you’re looking for quick, no-prep options, consider services with oven-ready or microwaveable meals. For those who enjoy cooking but want convenience, DIY kits that require minimal chopping and prep time could be a great fit.
Dietary Preferences
Consider any specific dietary needs or preferences, like vegetarian, low-calorie, or high-protein options. Many services now cater to a range of dietary goals, allowing you to enjoy customized meal options that suit your lifestyle.
Flexibility
Flexibility in subscription management is essential for singles with changing schedules. Look for services that let you easily pause deliveries, adjust portion sizes, or switch meal selections each week, meaning you only receive meals when they suit your needs.
Finding Your Perfect Meal Kit Match
At The Meal Kit Review, we’re dedicated to helping singles find meal kits that make solo dining simple and enjoyable. In 2024, these services offer more variety and flexibility than ever, making them ideal for solo diners looking to enjoy fresh, customized meals without the hassle of grocery shopping and meal planning. Whether you’re interested in budget-friendly options like EveryPlate or prefer the variety of HelloFresh, there’s a meal kit that suits every lifestyle and preference.
Trying out a couple of different services can help you decide which one fits your needs best. With their flexible subscriptions, you can explore different meal styles, flavors, and dietary options to find the perfect meal kit solution. So why not dive in and give meal kits a try? They might just make your solo dining experience more enjoyable, convenient, and satisfying.