Home Fitness I Tried Dinnerly For 4 Weeks (My 2025 Review)
I Tried Dinnerly For 4 Weeks (My 2025 Review)
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I Tried Dinnerly For 4 Weeks (My 2025 Review)

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As someone juggling a busy schedule between training sessions, content creation, and family life, finding time to prepare nutritious meals can be a real challenge.

Meal delivery services are an excellent substitute for meal planning, so I often test and rely on different services. This time, it was time to try out Dinnerly, which markets itself as America’s most affordable meal kit service.

After several weeks of testing their service, I can share my honest experience with what Dinnerly offers, who it works for, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

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Quick Verdict

Pros

  • Genuinely affordable pricing compared to other meal kit services
  • Simple 30-minute recipes with six ingredients or fewer
  • Good variety with over 100 weekly menu options
  • Fresh ingredients with adequate quality for the price point
  • No premium pricing for basic convenience
  • Good for building cooking confidence

Cons

  • Limited customization and dietary accommodation options
  • Digital-only recipe cards require device access while cooking
  • Basic ingredient quality compared to premium services
  • Portions may be small for very active adults
  • Less sophisticated flavors and techniques than premium alternatives

What Is Dinnerly?

Dinnerly is a meal kit delivery service that positions itself as the budget-friendly alternative in the crowded meal kit market.

Owned by Marley Spoon, the same company behind the premium meal kit service of the same name, Dinnerly focuses on simplicity and affordability without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

The service operates on a straightforward concept: deliver pre-portioned ingredients with simple recipe cards that can be prepared in about 30 minutes using no more than six ingredients per dish.

This streamlined approach helps keep costs down while making cooking accessible for busy individuals and families.

Dinnerly claims to be the most affordable meal kit service, with prices starting around $5.99 per serving for larger plans.

The company achieves these low prices through several cost-cutting measures, including digital-only recipe cards (no printed cards), simpler packaging, and recipes that require fewer specialty ingredients.

Dinnerly is committed to keeping things uncomplicated. Each week, they offer a selection of over 100 dishes, including vegetarian, dairy-free, low-carb, and healthy options.

The recipes are designed to be foolproof, making them perfect for novice cooks or anyone who wants a hassle-free cooking experience after a long day.

The service delivers weekly meal kits with pre-measured ingredients and recipe instructions. You can choose from plans for 2 or 4 people, with options for 3, 4, 5, or 6 meals per week. This flexibility makes it suitable for various household sizes and eating patterns.

My Dinnerly Review & Experience

Customization

One area where Dinnerly falls short compared to premium services is customization options. The service doesn’t offer extensive dietary customization or the ability to substitute ingredients within recipes. However, they do provide several filtering options on their weekly menu.

You can filter meals by dietary preferences, including vegetarian, gluten-free, low-carb, and kid-friendly options. While this isn’t as comprehensive as some competitors, it covers the basic dietary needs for most households.

The filtering system works well, and I found it easy to identify meals that fit my high-protein preferences when planning my weekly selections.

The lack of ingredient substitution can be limiting if you have specific food allergies or strong dislikes. Unlike some premium services that let you swap proteins or vegetables, Dinnerly’s recipes are fixed. This keeps costs down but reduces flexibility for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

One positive aspect is the ability to skip weeks or pause your subscription easily through their online platform. This flexibility is crucial for anyone with an unpredictable schedule, and I appreciated being able to manage my deliveries without calling customer service.

Meal Variety, Kits and Recipes

Each week, there is a selection of over 100 dishes across the various categories. This variety impressed me more than I initially expected from a budget service.

The weekly menu includes a good mix of cuisines and cooking styles, from American comfort food to Asian-inspired dishes and Mediterranean flavors.

During my testing period, I tried meals like Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff, Honey Soy Glazed Pork, Mediterranean Chicken with Couscous, and Creamy Tuscan Chicken. The recipes consistently delivered on their promise of simplicity while maintaining interesting flavor profiles.

What I particularly appreciated as someone who trains regularly is that many meals naturally lean toward higher protein content.

The meat portions are generous for the price point, and the recipes often center around chicken, beef, or pork as the main component. This worked well for my post-workout nutrition needs without requiring additional protein supplementation.

The recipe cards are digital-only, which took some adjustment. You access them through the Dinnerly app or website, and while this saves on packaging costs, it means you need a device in the kitchen while cooking. The instructions are clear and well-written, with helpful photos for key steps.

Each recipe uses six ingredients or fewer, which keeps preparation simple but sometimes results in dishes that feel basic compared to more complex meal kit offerings.

The 30-minute cooking time is generally accurate, though I found some recipes finished in 20 minutes while others took closer to 35 minutes.

Taste & Quality

The taste and quality of Dinnerly meals exceeded my expectations for a budget service. While the ingredients aren’t premium grade, they’re fresh and well-portioned.

The proteins are decent quality, though not as high-grade as what you’d find in premium meal kits like Blue Apron or HelloFresh.

The Honey Soy Glazed Pork was a standout, delivering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The beef in the stroganoff was tender and flavorful, though the portion size was adequate rather than generous.

For someone like me who needs substantial post-workout meals, I sometimes added extra vegetables or a side to make the portions more filling.

Produce quality varies but is generally acceptable. I received fresh vegetables and herbs in good condition, though occasionally, items like leafy greens showed some wilting by the time I cooked them later in the week. This is common with meal kit services and wasn’t a major issue.

The simplified recipes mean you won’t get complex flavor profiles or gourmet touches, but the food tastes fresh and homemade.

It’s comfort food done well, which suits busy weeknight dinners perfectly. My family, including my wife and older child, enjoyed most of the meals.

Packaging

Dinnerly’s packaging reflects their cost-saving approach. Ingredients arrive in a recyclable cardboard box with minimal internal packaging.

Proteins are vacuum-sealed, and vegetables come in simple plastic bags rather than the elaborate packaging systems used by premium services.

The ice packs and insulation keep ingredients fresh during transit, though the packaging isn’t as robust as more expensive alternatives. I never received spoiled ingredients, but the simpler packaging means items are more loosely organized in the box.

Each ingredient is clearly labeled with the recipe it belongs to, which helps with organization during unpacking. However, without individual recipe bags like some services use, you need to sort ingredients yourself if you’re not cooking everything immediately.

The environmental impact is lower than many competitors due to less packaging material and plastic usage. For environmentally conscious consumers, this simpler approach is actually a benefit, even if it sacrifices some convenience.

Price

Dinnerly’s pricing is genuinely competitive and represents the main reason to choose this service. Here’s the current pricing structure:

Plan TypeMeals per WeekWeekly CostPrice per ServingShipping Fee
2 Person Plan2 meals$35.96$8.99$10.99
2 Person Plan3 meals$47.94$7.99$10.99
2 Person Plan4 meals$63.92$7.99$10.99
2 Person Plan5 meals$79.90$7.99$10.99
2 Person Plan6 meals$95.88$7.99$10.99
4 Person Plan2 meals$63.92$7.99$10.99
4 Person Plan3 meals$83.88$6.99$10.99
4 Person Plan4 meals$111.84$6.99$10.99
4 Person Plan5 meals$139.80$6.99$10.99
4 Person Plan6 meals$143.76$5.99$10.99

The most affordable per-serving price comes with the 4-person, 6-meal plan at $5.99 per serving. The pricing includes frequent promotional offers for new customers, with introductory rates often reducing the first box cost significantly.

Compared to grocery shopping, the per-serving cost is higher than cooking from scratch but competitive when you factor in convenience and reduced food waste.

The shipping fee of $10.99 applies to all orders, which becomes more economical with larger plans. This fixed shipping cost makes smaller plans less cost-effective compared to larger household sizes.

Cancellation Process

Canceling Dinnerly is straightforward and customer-friendly. You can pause or cancel your subscription through your online account without needing to call customer service. The process takes just a few clicks, and there are no cancellation fees or complicated procedures.

The service offers the option to skip individual weeks rather than canceling entirely, which is useful for vacations or busy periods.

You can skip up to six weeks in advance, providing good flexibility for planning around travel or schedule changes.

When I paused my subscription temporarily, the process was immediate and hassle-free. Reactivating was equally simple through the online dashboard.

This user-friendly approach to subscription management is refreshing compared to services that make cancellation difficult.

User Reviews

Customer reviews for Dinnerly are generally positive, with most users praising the value proposition and ease of cooking. Common positive themes include affordability, simple recipes, and decent food quality for the price point.

Negative reviews typically focus on limited customization options, occasional ingredient quality issues, and the basic nature of recipes compared to premium services. Some users miss having physical recipe cards and find accessing recipes digitally inconvenient.

Many reviews specifically mention Dinnerly as a good entry point for people new to meal kit services or those looking to reduce their food budget without giving up the convenience of pre-planned meals.

The service seems to work particularly well for busy families and individuals who prioritize simplicity over gourmet experiences.

Who is Dinnerly For?

Budget-Conscious Households

Dinnerly excels for families and individuals who want the convenience of meal kits without the premium pricing.

If you’re looking to reduce your food budget while still enjoying home-cooked meals, this service delivers genuine value. The savings compared to other meal kit services are substantial, often 30-40% less expensive than competitors.

For young families or anyone managing tight finances, Dinnerly provides access to varied, nutritious meals that would otherwise be out of reach.

The service proves that meal kits don’t have to be a luxury purchase, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers.

Busy Professionals and Parents

The 30-minute cooking time and simple recipes make Dinnerly perfect for anyone juggling demanding schedules.

Parents will appreciate that many recipes are naturally kid-friendly, using familiar ingredients and straightforward preparations.

The service eliminates meal planning stress and reduces the mental load of deciding what to cook each night, which is valuable for busy households.

Meal Kit Beginners

If you’re new to meal kit services or cooking in general, Dinnerly offers an excellent introduction without overwhelming complexity.

The simple recipes build confidence in the kitchen while teaching basic cooking techniques. You won’t feel intimidated by lengthy ingredient lists or complicated procedures.

The lower price point also makes it easier to try meal kits without a significant financial commitment. If you decide meal kits aren’t for you, you haven’t invested as much compared to premium services.

Who Dinnerly Is Not For

Dinnerly isn’t suitable for food enthusiasts seeking gourmet experiences or complex culinary challenges. If you enjoy cooking elaborate meals with premium ingredients and sophisticated techniques, you’ll find the offerings too basic.

The simplified approach that makes Dinnerly affordable also limits its appeal for serious home cooks who want restaurant-quality results.

Additionally, people with extensive dietary restrictions or food allergies may struggle with the limited customization options. The fixed recipes don’t accommodate ingredient substitutions, making it difficult for those who need significant menu modifications.

Dinnerly Alternatives

CookUnity

Cookunity

If you want premium meals without lifting a finger, CookUnity is one of the most convenient alternatives to Dinnerly. Unlike meal kits, these are fully prepared, chef-made meals.

I was blown away by the variety, with over 200 rotating dishes featuring everything from miso-glazed salmon to pork tenderloin with chimichurri. Many meals pack 30–50g of protein, which is a big win if you’re active like me.

Customization is solid. You can filter by dietary preference, protein type, or even choose “fitness fuel” meals, but you can’t modify individual ingredients.

The meals are fresh, not frozen, and the quality was generally excellent. However, the price is steep: around $11–$14 per serving, with portion sizes that can vary. Some lighter options left me hungry, especially after training, so I had to be selective.

It’s not ideal for budget-conscious folks, but if you’re short on time and want meals that feel like takeout from a high-end restaurant, CookUnity delivers.

I’d recommend it for professionals or couples who value flavor and convenience over cost. For active individuals chasing gains, it works, but Trifecta might be better dialed in. My CookUnity review goes into detail on my experience.

HelloFresh

Hello Fresh

HelloFresh offers a middle ground between affordability and sophistication, and it’s probably the most well-rounded Dinnerly alternative.

The weekly menu boasts over 100 options, and the recipes strike a solid balance between interesting and approachable. I tested dishes like Garlic Butter Sirloin and Spicy Maple Chicken, and most hit the spot in both taste and satisfaction.

You still need to cook for 20–40 minutes per meal, but everything arrives pre-portioned, and the instructions are beginner-friendly.

I appreciated how the “Meat & Veggies” and “Fit & Wholesome” plans made it easy to find high-protein options (usually 30–40g per meal). Still, if you’re chasing 50g+ per meal or strict macros, you’ll likely need to supplement.

Customization is limited: you can’t really tweak ingredients, though you can swap whole meals. Pricing is moderate at roughly $9.99–$11.49 per serving, plus shipping, so it’s pricier than Dinnerly, but you get better ingredient quality and more adventurous flavors.

For athletes, HelloFresh works fine as a solid base. And if you’re cooking for a family or partner, the flexibility and variety make it a great weekly staple. You just have to be okay with doing a bit more kitchen work. My Hello Fresh review goes into detail on my experience.

Gobble

Gobble

Gobble is focused on speed. Most of their meal kits are genuinely ready in 15 minutes, thanks to pre-chopped ingredients and pre-made sauces.

If you’re slammed for time but still want to cook, Gobble makes it feel almost effortless. I tested several meals from their Classic and Lean & Clean plans and was impressed by both flavor and macros.

The Lean & Clean plan, in particular, offers high-protein, low-carb meals ideal for post-training recovery. Most of those meals came in around 30–40g of protein, and I liked that you can double the protein on some dishes.

That said, the variety is limited to only about 10–15 options per week, and the price is high. Expect $12.99–$16.99 per serving, depending on your plan size, plus a $9.99 shipping fee.

Gobble is ideal if your schedule is tight and you want something tasty with minimal prep. It’s not as budget-friendly as Dinnerly, and it doesn’t cater to super strict diets like keto or paleo.

But if time is your biggest pain point, and you still want a meal that tastes like you tried, Gobble’s worth a look. My Gobble review goes into detail on my experience.

Frequently Asked Dinnerly Questions

How does Dinnerly keep prices so low?

Dinnerly reduces costs through digital-only recipe cards, simplified packaging, recipes with fewer ingredients, and streamlined operations. They focus on efficiency rather than premium touches.

Can I skip weeks or pause my subscription?

Yes, you can easily skip weeks or pause your subscription through your online account. You can skip up to six weeks in advance without penalties.

Are the portions suitable for active adults?

Portions are adequate for most adults but may feel light for very active individuals or those with large appetites. I sometimes added extra vegetables or sides to make meals more filling.

How far in advance can I see upcoming menus?

Dinnerly posts menus three weeks in advance, allowing you to plan and modify your selections before your delivery week.

What happens if ingredients arrive spoiled?

Dinnerly provides customer service support for ingredient quality issues and will typically provide credits or replacements for damaged items.

Do I need any special kitchen equipment?

No, recipes are designed for basic home kitchens with standard pots, pans, and utensils. You won’t need specialty equipment or professional-grade tools.

Summary

After testing Dinnerly for several weeks, I can confidently say it delivers on its promise of affordable, convenient meal kits.

While the service doesn’t match the culinary sophistication or premium ingredients of higher-priced competitors, it provides genuine value for budget-conscious households who want the convenience of meal planning without the premium cost.

However, if you’re looking for a truly premium meal experience with top-tier ingredients and gourmet preparations, I’d ultimately recommend checking out Trifecta Nutrition instead.

While Trifecta operates in a different category as a prepared meal service rather than a meal kit, their focus on high-quality, nutrition-dense meals makes them ideal for active individuals who prioritize both convenience and optimal nutrition.

Their meals are designed with athletes and health-conscious consumers in mind, offering the perfect balance of macronutrients and premium ingredients that busy, active people need.

That said, for those seeking an affordable entry point into meal kit services or families looking to reduce their food budget without sacrificing variety, Dinnerly remains an excellent choice that delivers solid value and genuine convenience.

Trifecta

Trifecta Nutrition

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James de Lacey James is a professional strength & conditioning coach that works with professional and international level teams and athletes. He owns Sweet Science of Fighting, is a published scientific researcher and has completed his Masters in Sport & Exercise Science. He's combined my knowledge of research and experience to bring you the most practical bites to be applied to your combat training.