Home Fitness I Tried Gobble For 2 Weeks (My 2025 Review)
I Tried Gobble For 2 Weeks (My 2025 Review)
0

I Tried Gobble For 2 Weeks (My 2025 Review)

0
0

Gobble, a meal kit service promising gourmet dinners in just 15 minutes, piqued my interest with its high-protein options and time-saving approach.

Over two weeks, I put Gobble to the test, focusing on their protein-heavy meals to fuel my active lifestyle while also exploring their full range of offerings to see how it serves families, professionals, and everyday cooks.

Trifecta

Quick Verdict

Pros

  • Meals ready in 15-20 minutes, ideal for busy schedules
  • High-protein Lean & Clean plan suits athletes and active individuals
  • Customizable proteins for most dishes
  • Fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients
  • Easy cancellation and flexible delivery options
  • Prepared & Ready meals for no-cook convenience

Cons

  • Pricier than competitors ($11.99-$16.99 per serving)
  • Limited menu
  • Portions may be small for high-calorie diets
  • Not ideal for specialized diets like keto or paleo

What Is Gobble?

Gobble is a subscription-based meal kit delivery service designed for people who want home-cooked meals without the hassle of extensive prep. Founded in 2010 by Ooshma Garg, Gobble was acquired by Intelligent Foods in 2022, which also owns Sunbasket.

The service differentiates itself from its main competitors with the promise of 15-minute meals, achieved through pre-chopped ingredients, pre-made sauces, and partially cooked components.

It’s marketed as a time-saver for busy folks who still want high-quality, gourmet-style dinners at home.

Gobble offers three main plans: Classic, Lean & Clean, and Vegetarian, with options for two or four servings and a minimum of two meal kits (four meals) per week. You can also add breakfasts, lunches, sides, soups, and desserts to your order.

I focused on protein-heavy options from the Classic and Lean & Clean plans to support my training, but I also sampled vegetarian dishes to gauge variety.

Gobble delivers to most of the contiguous U.S. (excluding Montana) and emphasizes fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients. The service is flexible, allowing you to skip weeks or cancel through an online dashboard, which is a big plus for those of us juggling packed schedules.

My Gobble Review & Experience

Customization

One of Gobble’s strengths is its customization options, particularly for protein choices. For many dishes, you can swap proteins to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

For example, I customized the Honey-Ginger Glazed Salmon with Sesame Broccoli & Garlic Rice by swapping salmon for chicken breast.

You can also upgrade to premium proteins like Wagyu beef or sustainably sourced jumbo shrimp, though these come at an additional cost. Vegetarians can swap meat for plant-based options like tofu or chickpeas in select recipes.

Customization is limited to proteins, so if you have allergies or want to tweak other ingredients, you’ll need to do so at home. Gobble clearly labels allergens on their menu, which is helpful; however, there is a risk of cross-contamination, so those with severe allergies should proceed cautiously.

As an athlete, I appreciated the ability to double up on proteins in some meals to boost my calorie and protein intake. The customization process on Gobble’s website is straightforward, featuring a “Personalize This Meal” button that allows you to tweak proteins before adding them to your cart.

Meal Variety, Kits, and Recipes

Gobble’s menu offers around 10 to 15 dinner options each week, plus add-ons like breakfasts, lunches, soups, salads, and desserts. The Classic plan includes dishes like Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Beurre Blanc & Asparagus Risotto and Creamy Garlic & Chicken Pasta with Lemon Pangrattato, which appeal to a wide range of tastes.

The Lean & Clean plan, which I leaned into for its high-protein, low-carb focus, features meals under 650 calories, such as Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce & Roasted Vegetables.

The Vegetarian plan naturally offers plant-based options. I also tried the Prepared & Ready meals, single-serve dishes like Saag Paneer that require only 3-5 minutes of heating.

The variety is decent but not as extensive as competitors like HelloFresh, which boasts over 100 weekly options. Gobble’s menu rotates weekly, pulling from global cuisines like Italian, Korean, Thai, and American comfort food.

For athletes, the Lean & Clean plan is a solid choice, emphasizing lean proteins and vegetables without grains, but the Classic plan also has protein-heavy options with more carbs for post-workout recovery.

I found the Korean Beef Bulgogi with Jasmine Rice & CucumberSalad particularly satisfying after a heavy lifting session, with 42 grams of protein per serving.

Add-ons like the Gobble Lunch Box (batch-cooked lunches for meal preppers) and desserts like Chocolate Chip Cookies add flexibility, though the lunch options sometimes lack protein.

Recipes are designed for one-pan cooking with clear, step-by-step instructions. Most meals lived up to the 15-minute promise, though some took closer to 20 minutes due to additional cooking steps.

The pre-prepped ingredients (pre-chopped veggies, pre-made sauces) make cooking a breeze, especially for beginners or busy parents.

Taste & Quality

The taste and quality of Gobble’s meals impressed me, especially considering the service prioritizes speed. The Chimichurri Steak with Roasted Potatoes & Green Beans was a standout, with tender steak and a vibrant, herbaceous sauce that rivaled restaurant quality.

The Honey-Ginger Glazed Salmon (swapped to chicken in my case) had a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the accompanying sesame broccoli added crunch. Even the vegetarian Mushroom & Truffle Flatbread was flavorful, with a rich truffle aroma that elevated the dish.

The Prepared & Ready Saag Paneer was a surprisingly tasty alternative to takeout Indian food, though it felt heavier than I’d prefer for lunch.

Ingredients are fresh and responsibly sourced, with meats free of hormones and antibiotics and produced from U.S. farmers.

The pre-made sauces didn’t taste overly processed, though some dishes relied heavily on them, which slightly muted the “homemade” feel compared to kits like Blue Apron, where you prep more from scratch.

For athletes, the Lean & Clean meals delivered on protein (30-40 grams per serving) and kept carbs low, but portions could be too small for high-calorie needs.

Packaging

Gobble’s packaging is functional and eco-conscious, arriving in a recyclable cardboard box with reusable gel ice packs to keep ingredients fresh. Each meal’s ingredients are pre-portioned in plastic bags, clearly labeled and grouped by recipe, which made unpacking a breeze.

I transferred the proteins to my fridge’s meat drawer and the rest to shelves, and everything stayed fresh for up to 5 days. The ice packs were still half-frozen upon arrival, even during warm weather, ensuring quality.

However, the heavy use of plastic bags for pre-chopped veggies is a downside, as not all municipalities accept them for recycling due to food contamination. Still, the organized setup saved me time, which is critical when balancing my everyday tasks.

Price

Gobble’s pricing is on the higher end for meal kits, reflecting the convenience of pre-prepped ingredients. Based on my research across multiple sources, including Gobble’s official website and reviews from 2025, here’s the breakdown:

PlanServingsMeals/WeekPrice per ServingShippingTotal Cost (aftyer first order)
Classic/Lean & Clean/Vegetarian22 (4 meals)$16.99$9.99$43.95
Classic/Lean & Clean/Vegetarian23 (6 meals)$13.99$9.99$93.93
Classic/Lean & Clean/Vegetarian24 (8 meals)$12.99$9.99$113.91
Classic/Lean & Clean/Vegetarian42 (8 meals)$12.99$9.99$113.91
Classic/Lean & Clean/Vegetarian43 (12 meals)$11.99$9.99$153.87
Prepared & Ready1Varies$10.99-$12.99$9.99Varies
Add-Ons (e.g., soups, desserts)VariesVaries$1.99-$10IncludedVaries

New subscribers get a first-order discount (six meals for $36) and free shipping, but subsequent orders incur a $9.99 shipping fee.

Prices drop slightly with larger orders, but Gobble is pricier than competitors like HelloFresh ($10 per serving) or Blue Apron ($7.49-$9.99 per serving).

For athletes doubling proteins, costs can climb quickly, making it less budget-friendly for high-calorie diets. Still, the time savings and quality justify the price for those prioritizing convenience.

Cancellation Process

Canceling or pausing Gobble is refreshingly simple. You can manage your subscription through the online dashboard, no phone call required. To avoid unwanted deliveries, you must pause or cancel by Wednesday for the following week’s delivery.

I tested this by skipping a week during a busy period, and the process took less than a minute. Gobble doesn’t lock you into long-term commitments, which is a big win for busy folks like me who need flexibility.

Some users have reported delivery issues, but customer service is responsive, often issuing credits for problems like late boxes or spoiled ingredients.

User Reviews

User feedback on Gobble is largely positive, especially for its convenience and flavor. On Reddit, one user praised Gobble for saving money compared to takeout, noting the high-quality ingredients and variety, particularly for seafood dishes.

Another user, an 89-year-old cooking for a 94-year-old spouse, loved the global cuisines like Southeast Asian and Korean, highlighting the service’s appeal across age groups.

However, some users criticized the heavy reliance on pre-made sauces, which can make meals feel less homemade, and others noted occasional delivery hiccups, like late boxes or spoiled produce.

Athletes and active individuals appreciate the Lean & Clean plan’s high-protein options, but some found portions small for larger appetites. Overall, Gobble scores well for busy professionals and families but may not satisfy those seeking a fully from-scratch cooking experience.

Who Is Gobble For?

Busy Professionals and Parents

Gobble’s 15-minute meals are a lifesaver for people with packed schedules. As a parent, content creator, and recreational athlete, I found the pre-prepped ingredients and simple recipes perfect for getting dinner on the table after a long day.

The ability to customize proteins and add sides or lunches makes it versatile for families with varied tastes.

Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts

For those of us who lift weights or train regularly, Gobble’s Lean & Clean plan offers high-protein, low-carb meals that align with fitness goals.

Dishes like Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce deliver 30-40 grams of protein per serving, and the option to double proteins helps meet higher calorie needs. The Prepared & Ready meals are also great for quick post-workout nutrition.

Beginner Cooks

Gobble’s straightforward recipes and pre-portioned ingredients make it ideal for those new to cooking. The detailed recipe cards and minimal prep work take the intimidation out of preparing gourmet meals, making it accessible for young adults or anyone looking to build kitchen confidence.

Who Gobble Is Not For: Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Gobble’s premium pricing makes it less appealing for those on a tight budget. If you’re looking for affordable meal kits, services like EveryPlate or Dinnerly, with prices as low as $5 per serving, are better options.

Additionally, those with specialized diets like keto or paleo may find Gobble’s menu limiting compared to Green Chef or Sunbasket.

Gooble Alternatives

Blue Apron

Blue Apron

Blue Apron, a pioneer in the meal kit industry since 2012, emphasizes gourmet, chef-inspired recipes with high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.

Its menu offers around 16 weekly meal kits, plus over 30 Prepared & Ready single-serve meals and 10-15 add-ons like sides and desserts. Prices range from $7.99-$12.49 per serving for kits, with Prepared & Ready meals at $9.99-$12.99, plus a $10.99 shipping fee (free on some larger orders).

I tested their 45 grams of Protein options, which delivered bold, restaurant-quality flavors, perfect for post-workout recovery. The portions were satisfying, and the fresh, non-GMO produce and hormone-free meats stood out.

However, prep times average 35-45 minutes, longer than Gobble’s 15-minute promise, and cleanup can add to the effort, which might not suit those as time-crunched as me juggling parenting and grappling.

Customization is decent, and you can swap proteins or add extra meat in select recipes, but it’s not as flexible as Gobble’s protein swaps across most dishes.

Blue Apron lacks dedicated plans for keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets, making it less ideal for strict dieters compared to Gobble’s Lean & Clean plan.

If you enjoy cooking and want adventurous, global-inspired recipes, Blue Apron is a great fit, especially at a lower price point than Gobble. However, if speed and high-protein convenience are your priority, Gobble edges it out.

You can read my experience in my Blue Apron review.

Sunbasket

Sunbasket

Sunbasket, owned by the same parent company as Gobble (Intelligent Foods), focuses on organic, sustainably sourced ingredients with a strong emphasis on dietary-specific plans.

Its menu features around 24 weekly options, split between Meal Kits (20-40 minutes prep) and Fresh & Ready meals (4-6 minutes to heat), covering diets like Paleo, Keto, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Mediterranean.

Prices start at $11.49-$17.99 for kits and $9.99-$15 for prepared meals, with $9.99 shipping after the first order.

I tried high-protein dishes like Steak with Chimichurri and Roasted Sweet Potatoes, which rivaled Gobble’s flavor and quality, with organic produce and hormone-free meats shining through.

Sunbasket’s customization lets you mix meals across dietary plans but doesn’t allow protein swaps within recipes, unlike Gobble’s flexible protein options. Its eco-friendly packaging outshines Gobble’s plastic-heavy approach, appealing to sustainability-conscious folks.

For athletes, Sunbasket’s Paleo and Keto plans offer more tailored high-protein, low-carb options than Gobble’s Lean & Clean, but the longer prep times for kits (up to 40 minutes) can feel like a slog compared to Gobble.

Sunbasket’s add-ons, like snacks and extra proteins, add versatility similar to Gobble’s Lunch Box or desserts. If you prioritize organic ingredients and specific diets, Sunbasket is a strong contender.

You can read my experience in my Sunbasket review.

Home Chef

Home Chef

Home Chef, owned by Kroger, offers a broad menu of over 30 weekly recipes, including classic meal kits (30-40 minutes), Express kits (15 minutes), and Oven-Ready trays for minimal cleanup.

Prices start at $7.99-$13.95 per serving, with $10.99-$13.99 shipping, making it more budget-friendly than Gobble’s $11.99-$16.99 range. I tested their Protein Packed category, which delivered solid portions and familiar, comforting flavors, though less adventurous than Gobble’s global-inspired dishes.

Home Chef’s “Customize It” feature allows protein swaps or upgrades in most recipes, offering more flexibility than Gobble’s protein-only customization.

Ingredients are fresh, with crisp veggies and quality meats, but Home Chef doesn’t emphasize organic sourcing like Gobble’s responsibly sourced proteins. For athletes, Home Chef’s high-protein options are reliable, and the Family Plan is a steal for larger households compared to Gobble’s pricier four-serving plans.

However, prep times for classic kits can hit 40 minutes, and the lack of fully prepared meals means more kitchen time.

Home Chef is ideal for families or budget-conscious cooks who don’t mind basic flavors and some prep, but Gobble’s speed and gourmet touch make it better for busy athletes needing quick, flavorful meals.

You can read my experience in my Home Chef review.

Frequently Asked Gobble Questions

How much does Gobble cost?

Gobble ranges from $11.99 to $16.99 per serving, depending on the number of meals ordered, with a $9.99 shipping fee after the first order. New subscribers get six meals for $36 with free shipping.

Can I customize Gobble meals?

Yes, you can swap proteins in many dishes. Other ingredients aren’t customizable, so check allergen labels if you have dietary restrictions.

How quick are Gobble’s meals to prepare?

Most meals take 15-20 minutes, thanks to pre-chopped ingredients and pre-made sauces. Prepared & Ready meals take 3-5 minutes to heat.

Does Gobble cater to athletes?

The Lean & Clean plan offers high-protein, low-carb meals under 650 calories, ideal for fitness enthusiasts. You can double proteins for higher calorie needs, but portions may be small for some.

How do I cancel Gobble?

Cancel or skip deliveries via the online dashboard by Wednesday at 11:59 PM PST for the following week. No phone call is needed.

Summary

Gobble is a solid choice for anyone craving gourmet meals without the time commitment. Its 15-minute prep time, high-quality ingredients, and protein customization make it a hit for busy parents, beginner cooks, and fitness enthusiasts like me who need fuel for lifting and grappling.

However, the premium price and limited menu variety may not suit everyone, especially those on a budget or with niche dietary needs. For athletes seeking a service tailored specifically to high-protein, clean-eating goals, I recommend Trifecta Nutrition over Gobble.

Trifecta offers a wider range of paleo, keto, vegan, and vegetarian meals with nutritionist-designed macros, delivering to all 50 states. While Gobble excels in convenience, Trifecta’s focus on performance-driven nutrition makes it my top pick for active individuals.

If you’re curious about Gobble, start with their $36 six-meal deal to test it out. For more specialized needs, check out Trifecta.

Trifecta

Trifecta Nutrition

A clean, high protein meal delivery service that doesn’t skimp on quality or portions. Get 40% OFF with code “liftbig40”

CHECK CURRENT DEALS
Trifecta
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.