Best Meal Delivery Services and Meal Kits of 2026
As a food critic, I was surprised by how well meal kit delivery services have performed. The best meals I’ve eaten from a meal kit have come from Marley Spoon, which offers a path to genuinely good home-cooked meals.
What to Look for in a Meal Kit
When assessing meal kits, I consider recipes, breadth of selection, sourcing, ease of preparation, convenience, organization, packaging, high-quality ingredients, and suitability for different eating restrictions and needs.
Top Meal Kit Services
Marley Spoon, HelloFresh, and Blue Apron are among the top meal kit services. Marley Spoon offers classical cooking techniques, while HelloFresh has a large selection of meals. Blue Apron has improved its convenience and options.
Marley Spoon
Marley Spoon’s devotion to classical cooking technique sets it apart. Its recipes often take more time and care, but the results are worth it. However, the service has changed since its rebrand, with a greater emphasis on convenience and global flavors.
HelloFresh
HelloFresh is one of the biggest and oldest meal kit services. It offers a large selection of meals and has improved its cooking game lately. However, its prices can be high, and the service could be more flexible.
Blue Apron
Blue Apron has improved its convenience and options, making it a strong competitor to Marley Spoon and HelloFresh. Its meals are easy to prepare, and the service offers a range of dietary options.
Ultimately, the best meal kit service for you will depend on your dietary needs and preferences. Be sure to check out our guide to the best meal kit services and our investigation into whether meal kits are cheaper than groceries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are meal kits worth it? Yes, meal kits can be a convenient and healthy way to cook at home. However, they may not be the best option for everyone, especially those on a tight budget.
Can I pause meal kits when I go on vacation? Yes, most meal kit services allow you to pause or cancel your subscription at any time.
How do I best use meal kits? To get the most out of meal kits, be sure to follow the recipes and instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own twist to the dishes.
What are the best meal kit services for special diets? Marley Spoon, HelloFresh, and Blue Apron all offer options for special diets, including gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb.
How much do meal kits cost? The cost of meal kits varies depending on the service and the number of meals you order. On average, meal kits cost between $9 and $13 per serving.
By considering these factors and choosing the right meal kit service for your needs, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the hassle of meal planning and grocery shopping.
