The demand for quick, healthy meal options continues to grow in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you’re working from home, managing a busy household, or simply looking for easy lunches at the office, finding convenient, nutritious meals that don’t require much effort is essential. Microwave-ready meal kits offer a great solution, allowing you to enjoy delicious food without the hassle of cooking or take-out.
For anyone looking to avoid time-consuming prep but still enjoy tasty, wholesome meals, microwave-ready meal kits can be a lifesaver. Unlike traditional meal kits, these services send pre-made dishes that only need a quick heat-up in the microwave. They’re designed to accommodate a range of dietary needs and flavor preferences, making it easy to find a service that suits your lifestyle.
Let’s explore the best microwave-ready meal kits for 2024, bringing together convenience, taste, and nutrition in one simple package.
Why Microwave-Ready Meals Are Perfect for Busy Lifestyles
Microwave-ready meals have come a long way from traditional frozen dinners. Today’s meal delivery services provide high-quality, flavorful options that cater to health-conscious individuals and those with dietary restrictions. Here’s why they’re an excellent choice for anyone short on time:
- Minimal Preparation Needed: These meals come fully prepared, allowing you to enjoy a balanced, tasty meal in minutes. With easy heating instructions, you can skip the hassle of cooking, saving time and effort.
- Cost-Effective Alternative to Dining Out: Microwave-ready meal kits often cost less than restaurant delivery or takeout, making them an affordable option for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing taste and quality.
- Diverse Menu Options: With a range of choices, from low-carb and high-protein to vegan and gluten-free, these services make it easy to stick to dietary goals. Many meal kits offer rotating menus, so you’re never short on variety.
- Health-Focused and Nutritious: Unlike typical microwave meals, many of these services prioritize fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition, helping you avoid the overly processed options you might find at the store.
TL;DR: Best Microwave-Ready Meal Kits
To help you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget, here’s a snapshot of the top microwave-ready meal kits for 2024:
|
Meal Kit Brand |
Best For |
Starting Price Per Meal |
Special Features |
|
Factor |
Healthy, chef-prepared meals |
$10.99 |
Ready-to-eat, keto, and low-carb options |
|
BistroMD |
Weight loss-focused, dietitian-designed |
$9.50 |
Weight-loss plans, customized menus |
|
Home Chef Fresh & Easy |
Quick microwave and oven-ready options |
$9.99 |
Variety of add-ons and quick-prep meals |
|
Blue Apron |
Gourmet, chef-inspired prepared meals |
$10.99 |
Global flavors and seasonal ingredients |
|
Martha & Marley Spoon |
Classic, home-cooked-style meals |
$8.95 |
Curated by Martha Stewart, comfort foods |
|
Dinnerly |
Affordable, fast-prep microwave meals |
$4.99 |
Budget-friendly, digital recipe access |
|
Sun Basket |
Organic, health-conscious microwave meals |
$9.99 |
USDA-certified organic, diet-specific |
A Closer Look at the Best Microwave-Ready Meal Kits
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top microwave-ready meal kits, with details on what each service offers, including standout meals we recommend trying. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly, health-focused, or gourmet, there’s an option here for you.
Factor – Best for Healthy, Chef-Prepared Meals
Factor offers a range of nutritious, pre-made meals that cater to health-focused eaters. Each meal arrives fully cooked and is ready to heat in minutes, making it a convenient option for anyone with a busy schedule. Factor’s menu includes options for various diets, including keto, low-carb, and high-protein.
- Price: $10.99 per meal, with frequent new customer discounts
- Meal Type: Fully prepared, heat-and-eat
- Servings per Kit: Single servings, perfect for individual portions
- Options: Keto, low-calorie, high-protein, vegan, and vegetarian options
Pros:
- No cooking or prep required; simply heat and enjoy
- Great for specific dietary needs, especially keto and low-calorie
- High-quality ingredients with thoughtfully balanced meals
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to DIY meal kits
- Limited customization in meal structure
Recommended Meals:
- Thai Roasted Vegetable Green Curry with Coconut Lime Rice: A vibrant curry with rich coconut flavors and perfectly spiced vegetables.
- Spicy Cilantro Chicken with Brown Rice, Black Beans & Corn Esquites: A zesty chicken dish that balances spice and heartiness.
- Cajun-Spiced Salmon & Shrimp with Smoked Gouda Cauli Grits: Savory and satisfying, with bold Cajun flavors and creamy grits.
- Black Pepper & Sage Pork Chop with Smoked Cheddar Brussels & Broccoli: A comforting, homestyle meal with peppery pork and cheesy Brussels sprouts.
BistroMD – Best for Weight Loss
Designed specifically for those focused on weight management, BistroMD creates nutritious, ready-to-eat meals tailored to support healthy weight loss. The service offers dietitian-designed menus and customized plans, making it easy to stick to a balanced diet without the hassle of meal prep.
- Price: $9.50 per meal, with free shipping on initial orders
- Meal Type: Fully prepared, heat-and-eat
- Servings per Kit: Single servings
- Options: Customizable plans for weight loss, diabetes-friendly, heart-healthy, and gluten-free diets
Pros:
- Dietitian-approved, portion-controlled meals
- Customization based on individual dietary needs and goals
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options available
Cons:
- Higher shipping costs for subsequent orders
- Limited flexibility in adjusting meal components
Recommended Meals:
- Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Marsala: Juicy pork tenderloin paired with a rich Marsala mushroom sauce.
- Manicotti with Vodka Marinara Sauce: A satisfying, lighter take on classic Italian manicotti with a creamy vodka sauce.
- Chipotle Pineapple Smoked Pork Street Tacos: A tangy, smoky dish that brings bold flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat format.
- Beef Chipotle Chili with Corn Pudding: Hearty, spicy chili balanced with a soft, comforting corn pudding.
Home Chef Fresh & Easy – Best for Quick, Microwave-Ready and Oven-Ready Meals
Home Chef’s Fresh & Easy plan offers a range of options, including microwave-ready meals, oven-ready trays, and 15-minute meal kits. This makes it ideal for those looking for both convenience and flexibility, with meals that are easy to prepare and take minimal time.
- Price: $9.99 per serving, with discounts on first orders
- Meal Type: Mix of microwave-ready, oven-ready, and quick meal kits
- Servings per Kit: Single servings or two servings per kit, ideal for quick leftovers
- Options: Calorie-conscious, carb-conscious, and family-friendly meals
Pros:
- Quick and easy meals, including oven-ready and microwaveable options
- Customizable—swap proteins or adjust portion sizes
- Variety of meal options, including breakfast and lunch add-ons
Cons:
- Slightly higher shipping costs
- Limited options for specific dietary preferences like gluten-free
Recommended Meals:
- Cherry Chipotle Brisket Tacos with Corn Salad: Sweet and smoky tacos with brisket and a fresh corn salad, perfect for taco night.
- Greek-Style Chicken Orzo Bowl: Mediterranean-inspired bowl with tender chicken, whole wheat orzo, and roasted veggies.
- New Mexican-Style Cheese Enchiladas: A rich, comforting dish with a blend of cheese, beef, and mild poblano sauce.
- Gourmet Chicken Grain Bowl with Fig Glaze and Goat Cheese: A filling bowl with savory chicken, a hint of sweetness from fig glaze, and creamy goat cheese.
Blue Apron – Best for Elevated Prepared Meals and Meal Kits
Blue Apron brings gourmet, restaurant-inspired meals to your kitchen with their “Prepared & Ready” line of heat-and-eat dishes. Each meal is crafted with high-quality ingredients and inventive flavors, making it a great option for students or busy professionals who want something special without the time commitment of cooking from scratch.
- Price: $10.99 per serving, with frequent introductory offers
- Meal Type: Heat-and-eat, single-serve meals, plus traditional meal kits
- Servings per Kit: Single-serving prepared meals, ideal for individuals
- Options: Seasonal ingredients, chef-designed recipes, and premium add-ons
Pros:
- High-quality, chef-inspired meals with fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Variety of cuisines and flavor profiles
- Offers both prepared meals and meal kits for flexibility
Cons:
- Higher cost per meal compared to budget options
- Prepared meals may have limited customization
Recommended Meals:
- Calabrian Chile Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes & Lemon-Caper Butter: A spicy, Italian-inspired dish with tender meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes.
- Cheesy Guajillo Chicken & Rice with Black Beans: A Tex-Mex meal with a mild kick, featuring guajillo-spiced chicken and hearty rice.
- Smoked Pork & Honey BBQ Sauce with Mac & Cheese: A comforting, Southern-inspired dish with tender pork and creamy mac & cheese.
- Keto Creamy Pesto Chicken with Riced Broccoli & Asparagus: A low-carb option with flavorful pesto chicken, perfect for a filling, guilt-free meal.
Martha & Marley Spoon – Best for Classic, Home-Cooked Meals
Martha & Marley Spoon delivers comforting, home-cooked meals with a gourmet touch, perfect for anyone seeking a cozy, homemade feel without the hassle. With a curated selection inspired by Martha Stewart, these meals bring a bit of elegance to everyday eating.
- Price: Starting at $8.95 per serving, with discounts for new subscribers
- Meal Type: DIY meal kits and prepared meals
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per kit, ideal for one meal with leftovers
- Options: Includes meat and seafood, vegetarian, low-calorie, and low-carb options
Pros:
- High-quality, fresh ingredients with generous portions
- Curated recipes by Martha Stewart, adding a touch of sophistication
- Over 100 weekly menu options with diverse cuisines and meal types
Cons:
- Some recipes may be more intricate and time-consuming
- Ingredients aren’t always separated by meal, which requires some sorting
Recommended Meals:
- Spicy Pasta with Sausage & Marinara: A classic pasta dish with a slight kick, perfect for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
- Pulled Pork Chow Mein with Peas & Carrots: A fusion dish combining tender pulled pork with Asian-inspired flavors.
- Ginger-Miso Chicken with Jasmine Rice & Vegetables: A cozy, aromatic meal with an umami-rich miso glaze and perfectly steamed rice.
- Truffle Butter Pasta Alfredo with Roasted Mushrooms & Kale: A decadent Alfredo pasta with earthy mushrooms and a hint of truffle, adding a gourmet twist.
Dinnerly – Best for Affordable, Microwave-Ready Meals and Speedy Meal Kits
Dinnerly stands out for its budget-friendly, no-fuss approach to meal kits, offering a blend of affordable microwave-ready meals and easy meal kits. This service is ideal for those who want simple, quality meals without overspending.
- Price: $4.99 to $8.49 per serving
- Meal Type: Microwave-ready meals and DIY meal kits
- Servings per Kit: Two servings, ideal for a single meal with leftovers
- Options: Vegetarian, low-calorie, and low-carb options; family-friendly meals
Pros:
- Budget-friendly meals with simple, quality ingredients
- Straightforward recipes that don’t require much prep
- Wide variety of weekly options with over 100 recipes
Cons:
- Limited customization for specific dietary needs
- Recipes are online only, no printed recipe cards provided
Recommended Meals:
- Chicken Rigatoni Alfredo: A creamy Alfredo pasta with tender chicken, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Egg Noodles & Beef Meatballs in Mushroom Sauce: Comforting and hearty, with rich mushroom sauce and savory meatballs.
- Cheese Enchiladas with Corn & Black Beans: A classic Mexican-inspired dish, filled with cheese and served with sides for a complete meal.
- Cheesy Tex-Mex Meatballs Over Jasmine Rice: A fun, Tex-Mex inspired dish with spiced meatballs and fluffy jasmine rice.
Sunbasket – Best for Special Diets with Microwave-Ready Meals
Sunbasket is a top pick for those who prioritize organic and health-conscious eating. Known for its extensive dietary options and focus on sustainably sourced ingredients, Sunbasket’s Fresh and Ready meal plan offers balanced, microwave-ready meals that accommodate a variety of dietary needs.
- Price: Starting at $9.99 per serving, with discounts for new customers
- Meal Type: DIY meal kits and fully prepared, heat-and-eat meals
- Servings per Kit: Two servings per meal, perfect for solo dining or sharing
- Options: Wide range of options including vegetarian, paleo, gluten-free, diabetes-friendly, and plant-based
Pros:
- Mostly organic, sustainably sourced ingredients
- Diverse menu with dietary options for specific health needs
- Environmentally friendly packaging
Cons:
- Higher price point due to organic focus
- Smaller menu compared to some competitors
Recommended Meals:
- Smoked Linguiça Sausage with Sweet Potatoes and Cauliflower: A satisfying, savory dish with smoked sausage, complemented by nutrient-rich veggies.
- Chicken Cacciatore with Olives and Mushrooms: A Mediterranean classic with tender chicken and bold flavors of olives and mushrooms.
- Thai Green Curry Chicken: Fragrant and creamy with just the right amount of spice, served with vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Chicken Enchilada Pie with Olives and Pickled Jalapeños: A hearty, layered dish with the bold flavors of enchiladas, featuring zesty toppings.
Choosing the Best Microwave-Ready Meal Kit for You
When choosing a microwave-ready meal kit, it’s essential to consider how each service aligns with your dietary needs, budget, and schedule. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Budget-Friendly Options
For those keeping an eye on expenses, options like Dinnerly provide budget-friendly microwave-ready meals that deliver on taste and convenience. With meals starting at affordable prices, Dinnerly is a smart choice for getting quality food without overspending.
Ease and Minimal Preparation
If simplicity and quick prep are top priorities, Factor and Home Chef Fresh & Easy provide fully prepared, microwave-ready meals. These services are perfect for busy individuals who want healthy, delicious meals without the hassle of cooking. Blue Apron’s microwave-ready options also bring a gourmet twist to quick and convenient meals, ideal for those seeking a bit more flavor variety in minimal time.
Dietary Preferences and Health-Focused Options
For specific dietary needs, Sunbasket offers a range of meals that cater to dietary preferences like keto, gluten-free, and plant-based, all made with fresh, organic ingredients. This can be a great option for health-conscious consumers looking for meals that align with particular dietary goals.
Meal Variety and Flavor
If you like to keep your meals varied and exciting, Blue Apron and Martha & Marley Spoon offer extensive menus that bring diverse, flavorful dishes to your weekly routine. With options inspired by classic and global cuisines, they make it easy to explore new tastes without leaving home.
Tailoring the Right Meal Kit
Choosing the best microwave-ready meal kit comes down to balancing budget, dietary needs, and convenience. With options spanning from cost-effective solutions to organic and specialized diets, these meal kits offer a range of choices suited to any lifestyle.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Microwave-Ready Meal Kit
Microwave-ready meal kits are designed to save time and simplify your dining experience, but a few tips can help you get even more out of your subscription:
Use Leftovers Strategically
Many meal kits come with generous portions, which can provide leftovers for the next day. Store these meals properly in the fridge, so you have a ready-to-eat lunch or dinner without extra effort.
Experiment with Add-Ons
Some services, like Home Chef and Blue Apron, offer add-ons like salads, breakfast items, or quick snacks. These extras can help round out your meals and provide convenient options for other times of the day.
Look for Deals and Discounts
Many companies provide introductory offers, student discounts, or referral bonuses. Take advantage of these deals to try out different services at a lower cost.
Consider Meal Freezing
If you receive a large order, consider freezing some of the meals to extend their freshness. Most meal kits provide guidelines for freezing options, allowing you to enjoy high-quality meals at your convenience.
Personalize Meals with Easy Additions
While microwave meals are generally well-seasoned, you can always add a dash of hot sauce, extra herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese to enhance flavors to suit your tastes.
Finding Your Perfect Microwave-Ready Meal Kit
At The Meal Kit Review, we know that balancing time, taste, and nutrition is essential for enjoying stress-free meals. Microwave-ready meal kits offer a fantastic solution by combining convenience with quality ingredients and variety.
Factor stands out as the best option for health-focused, fully-prepared meals, while Home Chef’s Fresh & Easy plan is ideal for those who want a mix of microwave-ready and quick-prep meals. For those with specific dietary needs, Sunbasket’s organic and diet-friendly offerings make it a strong contender.
We recommend trying out a few meal kits to discover which one best aligns with your lifestyle, dietary preferences, and budget. Many of these services offer discounts for new subscribers, making it easy to explore your options and find your ideal fit. Whether you’re looking to save time, enjoy a home-cooked meal, or maintain a balanced diet, there’s a microwave-ready meal kit that’s perfect for you.
