Meal Kits: The Culinary Shortcut You Didn’t Know You Needed

Meal kits have become the love child of “I want to eat something that didn’t come from a drive-through” and “I wouldn’t know a good recipe if it kissed me on the mouth.” Perfect for health-conscious folks who’ve realized that ordering Thai food five nights a week isn’t a nutrition plan, these kits cater to culinary beginners who think “sautéing” is a French dance move.

But here’s the plot twist: meal kits now cost about the same as regular groceries. Yes, you read that right! With grocery price inflation, your weekly meal kit subscription might actually be cheaper—and certainly less hassle—than wandering the aisles of your local supermarket.

However, here’s where things get interesting (and where most people mess up): Signing up for a meal kit is like buying a gym membership—the real magic happens when you actually know how to use it. I’ve dived into the world of meal kits, taste-testing, chopping, dicing, and occasionally burning my way through every major service available, and I’ve cracked the code on maximizing deliciousness for your dollar.

Whether you’re already Team Blue Apron, riding the HelloFresh train, keeping it simple with Factor, or getting fancy with Daily Harvest, chances are you’re leaving money (and flavor) on the table. The good news? A few insider tricks can transform you from meal kit amateur to subscription ninja, squeezing every last drop of value from your weekly deliveries.

7 Big Meal Kit Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing Out on a Meal Kit Deal or Offer

First and foremost, you want to take advantage of new customer sign-up offers. Most meal kit services allow you to try their meals at deep discounts, sometimes up to 70% off, often spanning several weeks. If you’re already a meal kit subscriber, there’s no rule against pausing or canceling to take advantage of these enticing new customer rates.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size Plan

Meal kit costs vary significantly based on the number of meals and servings you order per week. For instance, Blue Apron can cost just $8 per serving if you opt for the largest meal plan, while that cost can balloon to over $12 per serving for the smaller plan. Go for a larger meal plan than you initially think you’ll need, and focus on recipes that keep in the fridge or freeze well. You might find yourself enjoying lunch and dinner sorted for days ahead!

3. Forgetting to Cook Seafood First

Seafood recipes are best cooked first because they spoil the quickest. Other ingredients that tend to turn, like leafy greens and dairy, should be prioritized too. In contrast, hearty proteins like chicken and steak can usually last a few extra days in the fridge, so save those for later in the week if needed.

4. Passing Over Steak and Fish

When perusing your meal kit menu, some recipes are sure to offer more bang for your buck. Steak and seafood meals often provide the best value because they’re usually pricier to make from scratch. If possible, lean into recipes featuring these proteins to get the most flavor, nutrition, and savings from your week’s meals.

5. Not Trusting Your Instincts

Recipes aren’t one-size-fits-all, so trust your instincts. If a dish calls for what feels like too much salt or spice, err on the side of caution. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in. Cooking is as much about personal taste as it is about following a recipe.

6. Ignoring Favorite Tags

Most meal kit companies spotlight certain recipes with a “fan favorite” label. These indicators often lead to some of the best—most satisfying—dishes in the lineup. Utilize these tags as a guide to help you navigate your meal options.

7. Taking It Too Seriously

Cooking should be fun! Meal kits offer a fantastic opportunity to develop your culinary skills. When you crack open a kit, crack open a bottle of wine, throw on some music, and embrace the process. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, invite the kids to join in; cooking together can become a cherished family activity.

Meal kits present a convenient and often budget-friendly way to enjoy home-cooked meals without the hassle of traditional grocery shopping. With a little insight and some insider tips, you can elevate your meal kit experience from mundane to marvelous, unlocking both extraordinary flavors and savings. Happy cooking!