Let’s face it—meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking from scratch can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule. That’s where Dinnerly and EveryPlate shine. These meal kits deliver pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes straight to your door, taking the hassle out of home cooking.
Dinnerly is all about simplicity and affordability. Its recipes use fewer ingredients and easy cooking techniques, making it perfect for students, families, and anyone looking for a fuss-free meal.
EveryPlate, on the other hand, prides itself on delivering quality ingredients and delicious recipes at the lowest price point on the market. With its no-frills approach, it’s ideal for those who want tasty, satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
Both services share a common goal: making home-cooked meals accessible and affordable. But which one is right for you? Let’s dive into the details to help you decide.
Why Choose an Affordable Meal Kit?
Meal kits have transformed the way people approach cooking at home, offering pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipes that eliminate the stress of meal planning and shopping. But for many, the price can be a hurdle—especially if you’re on a tight budget. That’s where Dinnerly and EveryPlate stand out.
These two services prove that convenience doesn’t have to come at a premium. With meals starting at just $4.99 per serving, they offer an affordable way to enjoy home-cooked dishes without the usual hassle. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or just someone looking to simplify weeknight dinners, affordable meal kits like these can help you save time and money while still eating delicious, balanced meals.
TL;DR: Dinnerly vs. EveryPlate: Quick Comparison Table
Feature | Dinnerly | EveryPlate |
Starting Price | $4.99 per serving | $4.99 per serving |
Shipping Costs | $11.99 per box | $8.99 per box |
Weekly Recipes | Over 100 | 30+ |
Dietary Options | Low-calorie, low-carb, vegetarian, gluten-friendly | Meat & Veggie, Veggie, Family Faves, Calorie Smart |
Preparation Time | 20–40 minutes | 25–45 minutes |
Add-Ons | Breakfast, desserts, snacks, pantry items | Lunches, breakfast items, premium proteins |
Customization | No extra charge for protein swaps | Option to swap proteins or sides |
Best For | Variety, families, and dietary flexibility | Budget-conscious individuals, simple recipes |
About Dinnerly
Dinnerly is a meal kit delivery service designed for those seeking affordable, no-fuss meals. It’s often hailed as one of the most budget-friendly options on the market, with recipes that prioritize simplicity and taste. The service offers a massive menu of over 100 recipes each week, catering to a variety of dietary preferences such as vegetarian, low-calorie, low-carb, and gluten-free options.
Dinnerly’s meals are crafted to be straightforward, featuring recipes with minimal ingredients and preparation steps. This makes it ideal for busy households, students, or those new to cooking. Additionally, Dinnerly’s flexible subscriptions allow you to adjust your weekly servings and dietary preferences easily.
Key Features:
- Pricing: Meals start at just $4.99 per serving, with competitive shipping rates.
- Menu Variety: Over 100 recipes weekly, including breakfast, lunch, and snack add-ons.
- Convenience: Easy-to-follow recipes with digital or physical recipe cards.
- Dietary Options: Supports diverse preferences like vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-calorie.
Dinnerly is an excellent choice for anyone looking for variety without overspending.
About EveryPlate
EveryPlate is another standout in the budget-friendly meal kit space, offering simple, crowd-pleasing recipes at an unbeatable price. With meals starting at $4.99 per serving, it’s one of the most affordable options for those who want to enjoy home-cooked meals without breaking the bank.
Focused on ease and practicality, EveryPlate features a rotating menu of 30+ meals each week, with recipes designed to be prepared in under 30 minutes. The ingredients come pre-portioned and packaged for convenience, making it a great option for busy families, students, or anyone looking for hassle-free meal preparation.
Key Features:
- Pricing: Meals start at $4.99 per serving, with affordable shipping costs.
- Menu Simplicity: A smaller but well-curated menu with classic comfort foods and family favorites.
- Convenience: Pre-portioned ingredients with simple, six-step recipes.
- Dietary Options: Includes plans like Meat & Veggie, Veggie, Quick & Easy, and Calorie Smart.
EveryPlate keeps things straightforward and budget-conscious, making it a top choice for families or individuals who want quality meals at a low price.
A Closer Look at Dinnerly vs. EveryPlate
Pros and Cons
Dinnerly Pros:
- Extensive weekly menu with over 100 recipes.
- Budget-friendly pricing starting at $4.99 per serving.
- Offers more dietary support, including vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free options.
- Large selection of add-ons, such as pantry staples, snacks, and desserts.
- Digital recipe cards to reduce waste.
Dinnerly Cons:
- Ingredients are not sorted by recipe, requiring extra prep work.
- Premium proteins and some add-ons come at an extra cost.
EveryPlate Pros:
- The most affordable meal kit, starting at $4.99 per serving.
- Simple, family-friendly recipes perfect for picky eaters.
- Pre-portioned ingredients reduce food waste and simplify cooking.
- Quick prep time, with meals ready in under 30 minutes.
- Option to swap proteins or sides for customization.
EveryPlate Cons:
- Smaller weekly menu with about 30 recipes.
- Fewer options for specialized dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb.
Both services offer excellent value, but your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a larger menu (Dinnerly) or a more streamlined and affordable option (EveryPlate).
Pricing
Dinnerly
Dinnerly prides itself on being budget-friendly, with meals starting at $4.99 per serving. However, shipping costs ($11.99 per box) and premium add-ons can increase the overall cost. For larger households or those who order more servings, Dinnerly’s bulk pricing provides a slight discount. Additionally, Dinnerly often offers promotions for new customers, making it even more affordable to get started.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate matches Dinnerly’s low base price, with meals also starting at $4.99 per serving. Its shipping fee is slightly lower at $9.99 per box, and the option to swap proteins or upgrade to premium meals is competitively priced at $4.99 per serving. For budget-conscious individuals or families, EveryPlate edges out Dinnerly slightly with its lower overall costs.
Diet Support
Dinnerly
Dinnerly offers a wider range of dietary accommodations, including options for:
- Vegetarian
- Low-carb
- Low-calorie
- Gluten-free friendly
This flexibility makes Dinnerly a better choice for households with diverse dietary preferences or restrictions. However, it’s worth noting that the labeling for gluten-free or low-carb meals may not guarantee strict compliance, so individuals with severe allergies or specific health needs should double-check ingredients.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate focuses on simplicity with five dietary plans:
- Meat & Veggie
- Veggie
- Quick & Easy
- Family Faves
- Calorie Smart
While it offers fewer dietary-specific options, EveryPlate ensures balanced meals that cater to a broad audience, including families and individuals looking for classic comfort food. It’s a great fit for those without stringent dietary needs.
Meal Preparation
Dinnerly
Dinnerly focuses on simplicity with recipes designed to require minimal prep and only a few steps. Meals typically take 30 minutes or less to prepare, making them ideal for busy schedules. While many meals use fewer than six ingredients, some require you to have pantry staples like vinegar or oil on hand. Digital recipe cards help reduce waste, but physical recipe cards are available upon request for those who prefer them.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate also emphasizes straightforward cooking with recipes that take 25–45 minutes to prepare, often in just six steps. The pre-portioned ingredients help minimize prep time, and clear instructions make these recipes suitable for beginner cooks. However, like Dinnerly, you may need some pantry staples to complete certain dishes.
Meal Options
Dinnerly
Dinnerly offers an expansive menu of over 100 recipes per week, with options for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and desserts in addition to dinner. The meals range from kid-friendly classics to globally inspired dishes like tacos, stir-fries, and pasta. Dinnerly also offers ready-made microwaveable meals for even greater convenience.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate provides a smaller menu with 30+ rotating recipes weekly. The focus is on hearty, comforting meals like burgers, pasta, and classic American fare. While there are fewer options compared to Dinnerly, EveryPlate offers “premium” meals for an additional cost, providing a chance to elevate your dining experience with dishes like steak or seafood.
The Meal Kit Review’s Taste Test and Favorite Meals
At The Meal Kit Review, we tested both Dinnerly and EveryPlate to compare their flavors, quality, and ease of preparation. Here’s what stood out:
Dinnerly Favorite Meals
- Creamy Rigatoni and Pork Sausage: This rich pasta dish combines al dente rigatoni with a savory sausage sauce, topped with Parmesan for a comforting classic.
- Grilled Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa: A flavorful Caribbean-inspired dish, featuring perfectly spiced chicken balanced by sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
- Crispy Shrimp with Garlic Butter Broccoli: Tender shrimp paired with golden garlic butter broccoli make for a satisfying and simple meal.
- Seared Steak with Creamed Corn Gratin: This hearty steak dish is complemented by the creamy sweetness of corn gratin and roasted zucchini.
EveryPlate Favorite Meals
- Sweet Chili Chicken with Scallion Rice: A perfectly balanced dish of sweet and spicy chicken served over fragrant scallion rice and zesty carrots.
- BBQ Chicken with Cheddar Potatoes: Juicy BBQ chicken paired with creamy cheddar potatoes and roasted zucchini offers a homestyle feel.
- Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Bowls: Flavorful ground beef seasoned with Tex-Mex spices, served over rice and topped with fresh pico de gallo.
- French Onion Beef Cavatappi: A comforting pasta dish combining beef, caramelized onions, and Monterey Jack cheese for a rich, satisfying flavor.
Both services delivered delicious meals with generous portions and easy-to-follow instructions. While Dinnerly impressed with its variety and global influences, EveryPlate excelled with its hearty, crowd-pleasing classics.
Optional Add-Ons
Dinnerly
Dinnerly offers an extensive market of add-ons, including breakfast items, lunches, desserts, snacks, and even protein packs. This variety helps customize your weekly box for different mealtimes or occasions, making Dinnerly a flexible option for diverse needs.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate focuses on simpler additions, offering extra proteins, vegetables, and sides like bread or pasta. They also feature premium meals each week for an added cost, allowing customers to enjoy elevated dishes like steak or seafood. While more limited in scope compared to Dinnerly, EveryPlate’s add-ons remain practical for everyday use.
Ingredients Quality and Nutritional Value
Dinnerly
Dinnerly offers a mix of conventional and occasional organic ingredients. The company partners with trusted suppliers to source fresh, seasonal produce while keeping costs low. Their recipes are well-balanced, featuring a thoughtful mix of proteins, carbs, and vegetables. Nutritional information is available for all meals, helping customers track calories and macronutrients. Most meals range between 500 and 800 calories per serving, making them suitable for various dietary goals.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate focuses on providing fresh, quality ingredients while maintaining affordability. Like Dinnerly, EveryPlate sources seasonal ingredients through partnerships with local suppliers, reducing packaging and food waste. Nutritional details, including calorie counts and allergen information, are readily accessible on the website. Meals typically range from 500 to 900 calories, ensuring they are filling while catering to a balanced diet.
Subscribing and Canceling
Dinnerly
Dinnerly makes subscribing and managing your account easy through its website or app. Customers can choose their preferred plan, select delivery days, and update meal choices with a few clicks. Skipping weeks or canceling the subscription is straightforward and requires no long-term commitment. Additionally, Dinnerly allows customers to preview menus up to four weeks in advance, providing flexibility in meal planning.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate offers an equally simple subscription process, with a user-friendly platform for managing orders and preferences. Customers can adjust delivery schedules, meal choices, and dietary preferences as needed. Skipping weeks or canceling is hassle-free and designed to accommodate changing schedules. While EveryPlate’s menu is available three weeks in advance (slightly less than Dinnerly), it still provides enough time for meal planning and adjustments.
Delivery Areas
Dinnerly
Dinnerly delivers to most of the continental United States, ensuring its services are accessible to a wide range of households. Delivery schedules depend on your zip code, with flexible options to choose a delivery day that suits your routine. The packaging is designed to keep ingredients fresh during transit, using insulated liners and ice packs to maintain temperature.
EveryPlate
EveryPlate also services the majority of the continental U.S., offering reliable delivery options based on location. Like Dinnerly, their packaging includes insulated liners and ice packs to preserve freshness. Delivery day options vary depending on the area, but the flexibility makes it easy to fit meal kit arrivals into a busy schedule.
What Customers Think
To better understand how Dinnerly and EveryPlate stack up, we scoured Reddit to find genuine user opinions and experiences. Here’s what customers are saying about these two affordable meal kit services:
Dinnerly Highlights:
Dinnerly stands out for its affordability and wide variety of meal options, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious users. While many appreciate the savings and simple recipes, some users noted that the lack of pre-packaged ingredients and recipe cards adds a bit of extra effort. Dinnerly also requires pantry staples like garlic or vinegar, which might not be included in the box. However, for those willing to put in minimal extra effort, Dinnerly delivers great value and convenience.
EveryPlate Highlights:
EveryPlate is praised for its simplicity, competitive pricing, and high-quality proteins. Many users find the straightforward recipes and easy preparation ideal for busy schedules. However, some mentioned that portions—especially vegetables—can be smaller, and the menu occasionally feels repetitive. Despite minor drawbacks, EveryPlate remains a strong contender for anyone looking to save time and money without sacrificing taste.
Our Dietitian’s Opinion
According to Katie Drakeford, MA, RD, CSP, LD, CLC, our board-certified pediatric dietitian and certified lactation counselor, both Dinnerly and EveryPlate offer valuable options for affordable meal kits.
Drakeford notes that Dinnerly provides a wider variety of dietary choices, including low-carb, gluten-free-friendly, and vegetarian options, catering to diverse nutritional needs.
On the other hand, EveryPlate excels in delivering budget-friendly meals without compromising on taste and nutrition, making it a practical choice for families and individuals seeking wholesome, comforting dishes at a lower cost.
Who Is It Best For?
Both Dinnerly and EveryPlate cater to specific audiences, making them ideal for different types of meal kit users.
- Dinnerly: Perfect for those seeking variety and dietary flexibility, Dinnerly is a great choice for families, vegetarians, and anyone looking for gluten-free or low-carb options. The larger weekly menu and add-ons, such as desserts and pantry staples, make it a versatile solution for diverse meal preferences.
- EveryPlate: A top pick for budget-conscious individuals and families who prefer simple, hearty meals without breaking the bank. With fewer menu options but consistently satisfying recipes, EveryPlate shines for those looking for classic, no-fuss meals.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a family looking for quick meal solutions, or someone exploring affordable ways to improve their cooking game, one of these services is likely to meet your needs.
Final Recommendation
After an in-depth comparison, EveryPlate emerges as the winner for 2024. Its unbeatable affordability, straightforward recipes, and satisfying flavors make it the top choice for those on a budget. EveryPlate excels at delivering crowd-pleasing meals that are easy to prepare, all while keeping costs low without compromising on quality.
That said, Dinnerly is still a fantastic option for those seeking variety and flexibility. With its extensive menu, diverse dietary options, and robust add-on selections, Dinnerly is perfect for households with varied tastes or specific dietary preferences.
Our advice? If cost-effectiveness and simplicity are your priorities, go with EveryPlate. But if you value variety, customization, and a broader menu, Dinnerly is worth trying. Both services deliver convenience, delicious meals, and excellent value, proving that affordable meal kits can elevate your dining experience at home.
