Meal kits used to feel like a luxury—something only the super busy or the super rich ordered. But not anymore. The rise of the Cheap Meal Kit Subscriptions has completely changed the game. Now, anyone looking to eat better, save time, and actually stick to a food budget can get in on the action. And the best part? You don’t have to commit to bland meals or mystery ingredients just to save a few bucks.
Let’s break down why these subscriptions are worth considering and which ones actually deliver solid value for your money.
Why Go for a Cheap Meal Kit Subscription?
If you’re trying to save money on groceries but still want variety and convenience, a Cheap Meal Kit Subscriptions might be exactly what you need. These kits take the guesswork out of dinner. You get pre-measured ingredients, simple instructions, and way less food waste. That means fewer impulse buys at the store, less takeout, and no more staring into your fridge wondering what to make.
Beyond that, many of these budget-friendly services offer flexible plans, so you can skip a week or cancel anytime—no strings attached. That’s ideal for anyone who wants to test the waters without going all in.
What Makes a Meal Kit Subscription “Cheap”?
Let’s set expectations here. “Cheap” doesn’t mean trash. It means you’re paying less without compromising on taste, nutrition, or convenience. On average, a typical meal kit can run you $9–$12 per serving. But Cheap Meal Kit Subscriptions come in closer to $5–$8 per serving, and some even lower if you snag promo codes or sign-up deals.
To qualify as truly “cheap,” these kits need to check a few boxes:
- Cost less than $9 per serving
- Offer free or low-cost shipping
- Provide consistent deals or loyalty rewards
- Let you pause or cancel anytime
Now, let’s look at some subscriptions that fit the bill.
1. EveryPlate: The Real Budget Hero
EveryPlate is probably the most well-known Cheap Meal Kit Subscriptions out there—and for good reason. Meals start at just $4.99 per serving, which is lower than most fast food combos. You get solid portion sizes, clear recipes, and comforting meals like pork chops, tacos, and pasta dishes.
Their meals are simple, which is exactly the point. If you want gourmet, look elsewhere. But if you want dinner done fast and cheap, this is it.
Why It’s Worth Trying:
- Lowest price point in the game
- Recipes only take 30–40 minutes
- Straightforward, hearty meals
- Great for families or couples
2. Dinnerly: Minimalist, But Mighty
Dinnerly keeps costs down by skipping the fluff—no glossy recipe cards, fewer ingredients, and digital instructions only. But they still deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Starting at $5.39 per serving, they offer up to 45 meals per week, giving you plenty of options.
Expect meals like skillet mac & cheese, sheet pan dinners, and comfort food classics. It’s perfect for anyone who wants no-nonsense cooking without overspending.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Massive weekly variety
- Super easy recipes
- Great for beginner cooks
- One of the most flexible subscriptions
3. Marley Spoon (on a Deal)
Marley Spoon (Martha Stewart’s brand) might not scream “cheap” at first glance, but hear me out. They frequently run promotions that knock the price per meal down to around $6.50–$7.00, especially for new customers. With those discounts, you’re getting restaurant-quality recipes at fast-food prices.
What’s to Love:
- Huge range of recipes (vegan, low-carb, etc.)
- Quality ingredients
- Ideal for foodies on a budget (with a promo)
4. HelloFresh: Mid-Priced with Budget-Friendly Promos
HelloFresh often falls just outside the “cheap” range, but they throw out so many first-time user deals and coupons, it’s easy to bring your cost per meal down to $5–$7 for the first few weeks. Their recipes are colorful, varied, and come with step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow.
It’s a great Cheap Meal Kit Subscription option if you time it right and watch for deals.
Why Consider It:
- Tons of international flavors
- Consistent promotions
- Good portion sizes
- Reliable service
5. Hungryroot: Grocery-Meal Kit Hybrid
Hungryroot works a bit differently. It’s a mix of meal kits and grocery items, all tailored to your diet. You fill out a profile, and it recommends meals and snacks based on your needs. Prices vary, but if you use it right, you can stretch the cost across multiple meals and end up saving quite a bit.
It’s ideal for people who want more control and variety than a traditional meal kit allows.
Highlights:
- Personalized to your diet
- Groceries + meals = serious convenience
- Great if you want to customize everything
Final Thoughts: Should You Try One?
Absolutely. If your goal is to eat better without wrecking your wallet, a Cheap Meal Kit Subscription is one of the smartest choices you can make. You’ll reduce waste, dodge decision fatigue, and likely save money compared to takeout or endless grocery trips.
And here’s a pro tip: rotate between a few different services using their intro deals. You can keep costs down while sampling different menus and finding your favorite. Just remember to cancel or pause when needed so you’re not paying full price once the promos end.
Start Smart, Save More
Trying a Cheap Meal Kit Subscription doesn’t lock you into anything. Most services let you pause, skip, or cancel with a click. That flexibility is huge, especially if you’re testing out what fits your lifestyle best.
With so many affordable options out there, there’s really no excuse to keep overspending on food. Take a chance on one of these meal kits—you might be surprised at how much easier (and cheaper) dinner can be.
