Savor the Future: Discover the Best Meal Delivery Services of 2025!
Explore CNET's expert-tested list of meal kits and prepared meals designed to make healthy eating convenient and delicious for every household.

Choosing Between Meal Kits and Prepared Meals
When it comes to meal delivery, one of the primary decisions is whether to choose meal kits or prepared meals. Meal kits require you to put in some time and effort to create delicious dishes, while prepared meals offer convenience by arriving cooked and ready to eat. If you only plan on cooking a couple of times a week, meal kits might not be the best choice. On the other hand, prepared meals can save precious time and make your weeknights a lot easier. Both options have their merits, so it really depends on your lifestyle and how much effort you’re willing to put into meal preparation.
Budget-Friendly Options
Budget-conscious eaters will be pleased to know that there are meal options available for as low as $5 per serving. Simple meal kits generally offer basic recipes that won't break the bank, making them ideal for anyone trying to save on groceries. On the flip side, more luxurious meal delivery services can cost up to $20 per serving, which may include premium ingredients and elaborate recipes. If you’re mindful of your wallet and still want delicious meals, there are great affordable options like EveryPlate that put value front and center.
Meal Variety and Customization
Variety is another important factor to consider when choosing a meal service. Some services like HelloFresh boast an extensive menu with over 70 recipe options each week, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Customization is equally crucial; some meal kits allow you to swap proteins or alter recipes to suit your tastes. However, more budget-friendly services may offer fewer choices and less flexibility. If you have specific dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or low-carb diets, exploring services that focus on these needs can help you maintain a balanced diet.
Quality and Healthiness of Meals
Not all meal delivery services are created equal when it comes to healthiness and quality. Many services pride themselves on offering wholesome, fresh ingredients, but some stand out more than others. For instance, Green Chef focuses on organic ingredients and provides health-oriented meal choices while Purple Carrot excels in crafting vegan-friendly options. When selecting a meal service, it’s valuable to consider the health benefits and ingredient quality to ensure that your meals contribute positively to your diet.
Insights from Testing and Recommendations
At CNET, our extensive testing process involved trying numerous meal kits and prepared meals across various services. Our team, including a vegan wellness expert, evaluated meals based on taste, healthiness, and ease of preparation. Blue Apron emerged as the top meal kit, balancing quality and flavor while being accessible for most families. For prepared meals, CookUnity turned heads due to its variety of gourmet offerings. Based on our findings, we have compiled a selection of the best meal delivery services tailored for different needs.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Meal Delivery
In conclusion, the right meal delivery service for you depends on your cooking habits, budget, and dietary needs. Whether you’re inclined toward meal kits that offer a fun cooking experience or prepared meals that save you time, there are plenty of options to explore. Make sure to consider factors like meal variety, quality, and healthiness to find the perfect match for your lifestyle. With the right service, you can enjoy enjoyable and convenient meals without breaking the bank.