My Experience Trying Blue Apron For A Month (2025 Review)

As someone who’s always on the hunt for quality grub to fuel an active lifestyle, I decided to put Blue Apron to the test. I dug into their classic meal kits, tried a few of their Prepared & Ready options, and scoured what real users are saying online.

From customization to taste, pricing to packaging, I’ve broken it all down to see if it’s worth the hype for people like me or anyone really. Along the way, I’ll stack it up against alternatives and land on a verdict that cuts through the noise.

Let’s see if Blue Apron’s got the goods or if there’s a better fit out there.

Pros

• High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, sustainably sourced meats and produce elevate every dish.
• Flexible Convenience: Mix kits and Prepared & Ready meals with easy skips or cancellations. Perfect for busy schedules without locking you in
• Educational Recipes: Detailed cards teach cooking skills like searing or spice blending. Great for leveling up your kitchen game
• Satisfying Portions: High-protein options (up to 45 grams) fill you up post-workout. No need to raid the fridge after

Cons

• Limited Dietary Plans: No keto, paleo, or gluten-free focus, with slim vegan picks. Strict dieters will feel boxed out
• Pricey for Budgets: $7.99–$12.49 per serving (plus $10.99 shipping) adds up. Cheaper options like EveryPlate beat it on cost
• Prep Time: Kits take 35–45 minutes, plus cleanup. Too much for some when takeout’s faster

What Is Blue Apron?

Blue Apron is a meal kit delivery service that aims to simplify the cooking process without sacrificing the joy of creating meals from scratch. Launched in 2012, the company is widely credited with kickstarting the meal kit trend in the United States.

Its mission is simple: to bring chef-inspired meals, fresh ingredients, and culinary creativity to your home. Unlike some other services that prioritize convenience over everything, Blue Apron encourages home cooks to roll up their sleeves and fully immerse themselves in the cooking process.

At its core, Blue Apron offers a subscription-based service where pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipe cards are delivered right to your door. With an impressive menu, premium ingredients, and family-friendly dinners, it caters to a broad range of dietary preferences.

Whether you’re looking for quick, easy dinners under their “Fast & Easy” category, carb-conscious meals tailored to healthier lifestyles, or high protein options fit for athletes, Blue Apron provides choices to suit your needs.

A notable aspect of Blue Apron is its emphasis on seasonal produce, which means you’re likely to get ingredients at their peak freshness. Blue Apron also takes a farm-to-table approach by sourcing responsibly and focusing on sustainability.

They even go the extra mile by offering additional options like appetizers, sides, and desserts through their Add-ons, enabling you to customize your meal experience further.

For anyone diving into meal kits for the first time, Blue Apron’s intuitive recipes, flexible plans, and wide variety of dishes make it a strong contender in the industry.

Whether you’re looking to reduce the monotony of meal planning or simply want to sharpen your cooking skills, this service offers plenty of value while serving up delicious and restaurant-quality meals.

My Blue Apron Review & Experience

Customization

The customization options here are solid, though not as extensive as some other services I’ve tried. For the classic meal kits, Blue Apron lets you swap proteins or sides on certain recipes each week, which is a nice touch.

For example, I could trade out chicken for pork chops or even upgrade to a premium cut like NY strip steak for an extra $3-$9 per serving. That flexibility came in handy when I wanted to bump up the protein content or just mix things up.

The 45 grams of Protein category, my go-to, often has a couple of customizable options, like swapping tilapia for shrimp or adding an extra meat portion.

It’s not a free-for-all, though; only some of the dishes per week offer these tweaks, and you’re locked into the chef’s base recipe otherwise.

Compared to something like Home Chef, where you can tweak nearly every dish, Blue Apron feels a bit more curated.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as it keeps the decision fatigue low, but if you’re picky or have strict macros to hit, you might find yourself wishing for more wiggle room.

One perk I appreciated was the ability to mix and match meal types in a single order. I could grab a couple of high-protein kits and toss in a Prepared & Ready meal for a busy night, all without juggling multiple subscriptions.

Adding extras like a side of roasted veggies or a quick dessert was seamless too, though those do jack up the cost a bit.

Overall, the customization isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s functional and gets the job done for most active folks who don’t mind working within a preset framework.

Meal Variety, Kits and Recipes

Blue Apron’s menu is where it really flexes its muscles. The service offers around 16 recipes per week. The recipes pull from all over the map.

You can enjoy Japanese-inspired miso pork chops one night, then a Moroccan-spiced beef tagine the next.

Additionally, customers can choose from about 30 prepared meals and 10-15 add-ons such as sides, breakfasts, and desserts, which rotate weekly.

It’s a big draw if you’re someone who gets bored easily or likes to experiment with flavors you wouldn’t typically cook up on your own.

My main focus was the classic meal kits and the quality is top-notch. I picked all the 45 grams of Protein weekly options, like the seared steaks with garlic butter or the spicy chicken thighs with jasmine rice, and the rest of my choices were varied.

These dishes deliver on the protein front, and the portions are hefty enough to satisfy after a long day. The ingredients show up fresh, the meats are well-marbled and the veggies crisp.

The recipes lean into bold seasonings and sauces that keep things interesting. I’ll admit, some of the prep steps take a little elbow grease, averaging 35-45 minutes, but the payoff is a meal that feels like it could’ve come from a decent restaurant.

To get the full picture, I branched out beyond my high-protein comfort zone. The Carb Conscious and 600 Calories or Less options were lighter but still flavorful with dishes like grilled salmon with quinoa or pork tenderloin with roasted cauliflower.

They’re solid for cutting phases or just balancing out heavier days, though the protein drops to around 30-35 grams, which is still not bad at all for a low-calorie meal.

The vegetarian stuff, like a mushroom farro bowl, was tasty but not my wheelhouse. There are only 3–4 options per week there, so it’s not a vegan’s paradise.

I also tried the Prepared & Ready meals a couple of times when I needed something fast. These pre-cooked options like a sous vide chicken breast with mashed potatoes or a beef stir-fry, come in at 20+ choices weekly and heat up in minutes.

They’re surprisingly good, holding onto that Blue Apron flavor punch, though they’re single-serving and lean lighter on protein (around 30 grams max) compared to the kits.

Taste & Quality

When it comes to taste and quality, Blue Apron doesn’t mess around. The first bite of their seared steak with garlic butter from the 45 grams of Protein lineup hooked me: juicy, perfectly seasoned, and paired with a creamy mashed potato that didn’t skimp on flavor.

The meats, whether chicken thighs, pork chops, or premium cuts like shrimp, consistently arrive fresh and well-sourced, with no funky smells or questionable textures I’ve run into with cheaper services.

The veggies hold up too; crisp green beans and firm sweet potatoes made it clear they’re not cutting corners on produce.

The recipes lean hard into bold, layered flavors. 

Even when I ventured outside my high-protein picks, like the salmon with lemon-dill sauce from the 600 Calories or Less category, the taste held strong.

It’s not just about dumping salt and pepper on everything; they’re tossing in things like togarashi spice, Calabrian chile paste, or fresh herbs that elevate the meal beyond what I’d whip up solo.

Quality-wise, Blue Apron’s commitment to non-GMO ingredients and responsibly sourced proteins (hormone-free meats, sustainable seafood) gives it an edge over budget competitors.

The portions are satisfying too, especially the high protein meals left me full without needing to raid the fridge later, which isn’t always the case with lighter services.

My only gripe? A few recipes lean heavy on sauces, which can mask the natural flavors if you’re not careful with how much you use.

Still, for taste and ingredient quality, it’s a premium experience that delivers, especially if you’re fueling an active lifestyle.

Packaging

Blue Apron’s packaging is a mixed bag. It’s functional and eco-conscious in some ways, but not without its quirks.

Each kit arrives in a sturdy, refrigerated box lined with insulation and gel packs to keep everything cold, even if it sits on my porch for a few hours.

Opening it up, the ingredients are neatly organized: meats sealed in their own compartment below the ice packs, and veggies, spices, and sauces tucked into recyclable bags above.

It’s a clean setup that makes unpacking quick, and I never had an issue with anything arriving spoiled or banged up.

On the sustainability front, they’re doing better than some. Over 85% of the packaging is recyclable by weight, and they’ve partnered with How2Recycle to clarify what goes where.

That said, there’s still a fair amount of plastic involved. Those little sauce containers and produce bags add up fast. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it might nag at you if you’re hardcore about zero waste.

The recipe cards are slick too – full-color, step-by-step, and durable enough to survive a splash or two. Overall, the packaging gets the job done with a nod to sustainability, but it’s not flawless.

Price

Blue Apron’s pricing is straightforward and sits in the mid to high-range end of the meal kit spectrum, which makes sense given the quality and variety you’re getting. For the classic meal kits I focused on, the cost depends on how many servings and recipes you order weekly.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main pricing options, including the Prepared & Ready meals:

Plan	Recipes per Week	Servings	Price per Serving	Total (with $10.99 Shipping)
2-Serving Meal Kit	2	4	$11.99	$47.95
2-Serving Meal Kit	5	10	$9.49	$74.95
4-Serving Meal Kit	2	8	$8.99	$71.92
4-Serving Meal Kit	4	16	$7.99	$119.84
Prepared & Ready Meals	1	1	$9.99–$12.99	$20.98–$23.98 (1 meal)
Premium Recipe Add-On	Varies	Per serving	$13.99–$19.99	Varies

Cancellation Process

Canceling Blue Apron was a breeze. It’s all handled online through your account, which is a relief if you’re juggling a busy schedule.

After logging in, I found the “Manage Subscription” section, clicked “Cancel Subscription,” and followed a few prompts.

They ask why you’re bailing with the typical options like “too expensive” or “not enough variety” and offer a chance to pause instead, which is smart if you just need a break. I stuck with the full cancellation, which was confirmed in under a minute with an email to seal the deal.

As is the case with all meal delivery services, you’ve got to cancel before the weekly cutoff, which is five days before your next delivery process, or you’re locked in for that box.

There’s no fee to cancel, and since it’s not a contract, you can restart anytime without hassle.

Who Is Blue Apron For?

Adventurous Home Cooks Looking to Level Up

If you’re someone who enjoys cooking and wants to step up your game, Blue Apron’s a solid fit. The classic kits come with recipes that push you to try new techniques or flavors, like making your own miso glaze or searing a premium cut just right.

The step-by-step cards and fresh, high-quality ingredients make it feel like a mini cooking class, perfect for folks who aren’t pros but want to eat like one. I found myself picking up tricks I wouldn’t have bothered with otherwise, and the results tasted worth the effort.

Busy Individuals or Couples Craving Convenience with Quality

Blue Apron nails it for people who want good food without the grocery run, especially with the Prepared & Ready meals. The kits are pre-portioned, so there’s no waste, and most clock in at 35–45 minutes, which is doable on a weeknight.

The Ready meals cut that to five minutes flat, rivaling takeout but with better ingredients. It’s ideal for singles or couples juggling packed schedules who still want something tastier than a frozen dinner. The flexibility to mix both options in one order just seals the deal.

Active Folks Who Value Protein and Flavor

If you’re hitting the gym or staying active and need meals that fuel you, Blue Apron mostly has your back. The 45 grams of Protein options were my sweet spot, delivering big portions and bold tastes that kept me full post-workout.

Even the lighter dishes pack enough punch to fit a balanced diet. It’s not a full-on bodybuilder’s dream, but it’s a strong contender for athletes or fitness buffs who prioritize quality over counting every gram.

Who It’s Not For: Strict Dieters or Budget Seekers

Blue Apron isn’t perfect for everyone. If you’re on a rigid plan like keto, paleo, or gluten-free, you’ll struggle. The menu is diverse but doesn’t cater to those niches, and cross-contamination is a risk.

Vegans get slim pickings too, with just 3-4 options weekly.

On the cost side, at $7.99–$12.49 per serving (plus shipping), it’s pricier than EveryPlate or a grocery haul for basics. For penny-pinchers or huge families needing bulk on the cheap, it’s not the move.

And if you’re a macro-obsessed lifter needing 50+ grams of protein per meal, you’ll either need to supplement or look elsewhere. It’s premium, not precision.

Blue Apron User Reviews

After digging into what real users have to say about Blue Apron online, I’ve pieced together a snapshot of the everyday experience.

The food gets a lot of love. Users often highlight how the flavors stand out, with recipes introducing them to dishes they’d never tackle otherwise that make them feel like kitchen pros.

Many say the pre-portioned ingredients are a game-changer, cutting down on waste and sparing them the grocery grind. When it arrives as promised, the consensus is that it’s a tasty, convenient win that elevates weeknight meals.

Delivery, though, is a sore spot for some. Complaints about boxes arriving late or not at all pop up frequently, especially in early 2025 chatter. Others grumble about banged-up produce or spilled sauces, and while customer service sometimes steps in with credits, it’s not always enough to smooth things over.

Portion sizes also spark debate; a few folks find them skimpy, needing to double up to feel satisfied, which throws off the value for them.

Price and effort divide the crowd too. Some users balk at the $10+ price per serving, saying it’s tough to justify when basic groceries are cheaper, especially for simpler plans like vegetarian. The 35-45-minute prep time, plus clean up, feels like a chore to others who’d rather hit up takeout than fuss with extra steps.

On the flip side, plenty of fans see it as worth it. They view Blue Apron as a fun, occasional splurge that turns cooking into a relaxing ritual, especially for couples who enjoy the process together.

Overall, Blue Apron’s got a loyal crew hooked on its taste and creativity when everything clicks. But the shine dims quickly if shipping flops, ingredients disappoint, or the portions don’t fill you up.

Blue Apron Alternatives

Purple Carrot

The kits feature pre-portioned, seasonal ingredients and recipes like tahini noodles or Moroccan lentil stew, with prep times ranging from 30–50 minutes.

Weekly options hover around 16 kits, roughly the same as Blue Apron, but there’s no protein customization-everything stays meat-free, which is a big problem for someone like me.

Prepared meals emphasize convenience, arriving ready to heat, often with global-inspired flavors. Packaging is recyclable, aligning with a sustainability focus.

Purple Carrot suits those committed to veganism or exploring plant-based diets, so it lacks the omnivore flexibility Blue Apron provides. You can read my Purple Carrot review for my detailed experience.

EveryPlate

The menu offers over 30 weekly recipes with classics like meatloaf or chicken tacos, using fresh ingredients that cook in 30 minutes or less.

Unlike Blue Apron, there are no premium protein upgrades or extensive customization, and the focus stays on familiar, hearty dishes with a handful of vegetarian options.

Overall, EveryPlate’s emphasis on affordability and straightforward recipes makes it a strong contender for anyone seeking fuss-free, inexpensive meals.

While it’s not designed to cater to highly specific dietary goals, its generous portion sizes, and reliable flavors make it appealing for families and individuals who value comfort over complexity.

My EveryPlate review goes into detail about my experience.

Sakara Life

Prices reflect the use of organic, gluten-free, non-GMO ingredients. You will get things like fig-glazed sweet potatoes, kale salads with superfood dressings, or chia seed parfaits.

The menu rotates weekly with 10–15 options, all delivered ready to eat (optional heating), prioritizing nutrition and convenience over cooking involvement.

There’s no flexibility to mix meal types or adjust serving sizes like Blue Apron offers, and it’s strictly vegan with a holistic, health-driven ethos tied to detox programs and supplements.

Sakara Life targets those with a bigger budget who value premium, hands-off meals and don’t mind the lack of meat or DIY elements.

For me, it’s a total mismatch; its vegan-only focus and lower protein content don’t align with my needs.

However, Sakara Life hits the sweet spot for its target audience, so it’s an option that may align with your goals and lifestyle. My Sakara review goes into detail about my experience.

Frequently Asked Blue Apron Questions

What makes Blue Apron different from other meal kit services?

Blue Apron aims to balance between quality and affordability. Unlike some services focusing solely on convenience or gourmet experiences, Blue Apron bridges the gap by providing restaurant-quality recipes at a cost that remains accessible for most households.

Although it may not cater to strict diets like keto or paleo, its diverse offerings, ranging from family-friendly meals to carb-conscious and vegetarian dishes, make it versatile for many dietary preferences.

Is Blue Apron beginner-friendly?

From my experience, Blue Apron is an excellent choice for novice cooks. Their step-by-step recipe cards are clear and well-organized, breaking down each part of the cooking process in a way that’s easy to follow.

I especially appreciated extra tips sprinkled throughout the recipes, like saving pasta water to enhance sauce textures. For cooking newbies, these techniques can build confidence in the kitchen and improve skills over time.

That said, some recipes involve intermediate cooking techniques or require multiple pots and tools, so it’s not entirely effortless. If you’re brand new to cooking, you might face a slight learning curve with complex recipes, but the satisfaction of mastering them is well worth the effort.

Can Blue Apron accommodate dietary restrictions?

Blue Apron provides some flexibility but does not excel in accommodating restrictive or specialized diets.

While you can select preferences like vegetarian or carb-conscious, the service doesn’t allow for detailed ingredient eliminations or substitutions post-selection. If you follow a strictly gluten-free, keto, or low-sodium diet, or have severe allergies, you might find it challenging to fully align their offerings with your needs.

For those without stringent dietary restrictions but who enjoy healthful, balanced meals, Blue Apron offers plenty of variety.

How much time does meal preparation take?

Meal preparation times vary depending on the recipe’s complexity but generally fall between 20 and 45 minutes. Simpler meals are under categories like “Fast & Easy,” while more intricate, gourmet dishes take longer and often involve extra steps. It’s worth noting that the advertised time on the recipe card is not always accurate.

For instance, I occasionally spent an additional 10 minutes chopping, simmering, or cleaning up compared to the listed times. If you’re juggling a busy schedule, sticking to their quicker recipes or heat-and-eat options could save some hassle.

Summary

After putting Blue Apron through its paces, cooking up its classic meal kits, sampling the Prepared & Ready meals, and digging into user feedback, this service clearly shines for a specific crowd.

Pricing sits at $7.99-$12.49 per serving (plus $10.99 shipping), which feels fair for the gourmet experience, though delivery hiccups and limited dietary plans like keto or vegan can frustrate.

It’s a win for adventurous cooks, busy couples, or active folks who enjoy flavorful, protein-packed meals, but it’s not for strict dieters or budget hunters.

That’s where Trifecta Nutrition stands out. Trifecta delivers fully prepared, organic meals tailored for athletes-high-protein (up to 50+ grams), macro-focused options like grass-fed beef or wild-caught salmon, priced around $16 per serving with flexible plans.

It skips the cooking entirely, unlike Blue Apron’s kits, and caters to keto, paleo, or clean eating with no fuss. For active individuals chasing gains and convenience, Trifecta’s my top pick – it’s the no-prep, nutrition-first choice Blue Apron can’t quite match.