9 Best Free Trial Meal Delivery Services 2024

While actual free trial meal delivery services are uncommon, there’s more to it than that, and you can get some great deals that equate to more savings than the cost of a single free box. For example, selecting a service that offers substantial discounts for new customers can make daily dining both enjoyable and stress-free.

I rigorously tested and reviewed numerous meal delivery options focusing on menu variety, dietary accommodation, pricing, delivery reliability, and food quality. This helped me identify the top meal delivery services that, while not offering free trials, provide great value through reduced-price offers. Every service on this list has been tried and tasted at home by me or one of my DeliveryRank colleagues.

Overall, Factor is my top pick. It features chef-prepared meals that are delivered fresh, not frozen, using high-quality, well-sourced ingredients. While Factor does not offer a free trial, it often provides significant discounts for new customers. But the other competitors on my list will also prove to be great options!

The Best Free Trial Meal Delivery Services Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Discount on Prepared Meals

Factor specializes in prepared meals that come fresh and are ready for you to heat and eat. You can choose from a variety of meals including lunches, dinners, snacks, sides, desserts, and more. As a new customer, you will benefit from the best deals (I included the latest live one above).

What’s on the Menu?

Factor's menu is designed to be nutritionally balanced, which is great for your health. You'll find meals made with nutritious ingredients, supporting your overall well-being. This approach provides you with food that's both good and good for you. I go into more detail about this in my tested Factor review (spoiler alert: I love Factor!).

Most of Factor's meals are keto-friendly, meaning they're high in fats and low in carbs. This is ideal if you're following a keto diet or looking for high-protein options to support an active lifestyle. You get meals that fit your fitness goals without sacrificing taste.

You’ll also find a decent selection of plant-based meals, with about 5 options each week. Besides the 35 weekly meals, Factor offers breakfasts, smoothies, snacks, and protein packs. This variety lets you mix and match meals to keep things interesting.

What Makes It Special?

You can schedule a call with a dietitian and nutrition coach, a unique feature at Factor. This isn't something you see often with meal delivery services. It's a big help in forming healthy eating habits that support good health.

The dietitian service adds a personalized touch to your meal planning. It's helpful for tailoring your meals to your specific health goals. This kind of support can make a big difference in how you eat and feel.

Factor’s meals are never frozen, which I noticed makes them taste great. When I tried the meals myself, the freshness really stood out. This is a key factor that sets it apart from many other meal services.

Is It Good Value?

Factor is perfect if you're busy but still want to eat healthily. It's also great if you're looking for guidance from a registered dietitian. Plant-based dieters might find the menu a bit limited. However, if you're more flexitarian, there are plenty of options for you. 

Factor’s pricing depends on the number of meals you order each week, with larger orders lowering the per-meal price. The best-value option offers 18 single-serving meals for $103.41 on your first purchase if you use our link.

2. Green Chef – Best Organic Ingredients

Green Chef is all about organic ingredients and gourmet meals. It offers a variety of cuisines, making mealtime exciting. These meals are quick to prepare, serving up to 6 people. New customers also get a great opening deal on their first few boxes – in my opinion, this is the best way to test out a premium service to decide if it’s worth it.

What’s on the Menu?

Green Chef offers meal kits for different diets, making it versatile. Whether you're into keto, plant-based, or calorie-smart eating, it’s got you covered. You can mix and match plans like Calorie Smart or Protein Packed to suit your taste. Find out more in my colleague’s tested Green Chef review.

You'll find an adventurous range of cuisines like French, Italian, and Asian. It caters to those who love to explore different flavors from around the world. From Middle Eastern to Mediterranean, there's always something new to try.

Meal prep is a breeze with Green Chef's prepped ingredients. You get things like pre-cut veggies and ready-to-use seasonings. Most dishes take 30 to 40 minutes to cook, while the Quick & Easy meals are ready in less than 25 minutes.

What Makes It Special?

Green Chef's ingredients are certified organic, which is a big plus. You get organic veggies, eggs, hormone-free meats, and wild-caught seafood. This commitment to quality ingredients makes a difference in the taste and healthiness of the meals.

It sources ingredients from local farms and small producers. This not only supports local businesses but also ensures freshness. You're getting top-notch ingredients that contribute to better-tasting meals.

Each meal kit comes with handy recipe cards. These cards list nutrition facts, ingredients, pantry items needed, and cooking times. You can also find all this info online, which is super convenient for planning your meals.

Is It Good Value?

Green Chef is ideal for families looking for gourmet, organic meals. It's designed to make mealtime special without the hassle. The variety and quality of the ingredients justify the cost, starting at $9.99 per serving.

The service offers flexibility in order size, ranging from 3 dishes for 2 people per week to 4 dishes for 4-6 people. This allows you to tailor your order to your family's size and eating habits. It’s a good deal, especially considering the quality and variety you get.

3. Blue Apron – Best Gourmet Meal Kits + Prepared Meals

Blue Apron is known for its gourmet meal kits and prepared meals. It features a diverse range of cuisines, including Latin American and Asian influences. You’ll also find plenty of add-ons and extras. You can usually get a great deal when you sign up as a new customer.

What’s on the Menu?

Blue Apron’s menu offers a great variety of meal kits each week. You'll find dishes from Mexican to Japanese, French to Korean, and more. Favorites include Salmon and Avocado Rice Bowls, Sweet & Spicy Pork Belly Fried Rice, and Rosemary-Garlic Ribeye Steak. Learn more in my colleague’s tested Blue Apron review.

It caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian, carb-conscious, and pescatarian options. You can choose from 5 plans: Chef Favorites, Wellness, Family Friendly, Fast & Easy, and Veggies. The best part is that you can mix and match across any of these plans to suit your taste.

Meal prep times are reasonable, usually taking anywhere from 3 to 45 minutes. There's also a range of add-ons like soups, salads, desserts, and extra proteins. Seasonal boxes for holidays add a festive touch.

What Makes It Special?

You can see Blue Apron’s menu up to 4 weeks in advance. This is great for planning your meals ahead of time. It helps you organize your week and decide what you want to eat way before you need to cook.

Blue Apron follows an animal welfare policy aligned with the Five Freedoms. This shows a commitment to ethical practices in sourcing meat. It's reassuring to know you're eating food that's sourced responsibly.

The ingredients include some USDA-certified organic options. While not everything is organic, the focus on quality and sustainability stands out. It's a good choice if you care about where your food comes from.

Is It Good Value?

Blue Apron is perfect if you're into high-quality, international gourmet dishes. Its smaller menu means more focus on crafting each dish to perfection. If you enjoy exploring exotic flavors, it's a great pick.

Prices start at $4.00 for larger orders. Subscriptions start at 2 kits for 2 people or 4 prepared meals per week with a maximum of 12. Keep in mind that you can’t mix and match kits and prepared meals. For that, you’ll need to place 2 separate orders or switch them up each week.

4. HelloFresh – Best Family-Friendly Meal Kits

HelloFresh specializes in simple, family-friendly meal kits that are delicious and easy to prepare. These kits take roughly 20 to 30 minutes to make and offer a variety of cuisines. New customers get discounts such as free meals or free shipping and they sometimes run over several weeks’ worth of orders.

What’s on the Menu?

HelloFresh meal kits are designed to be both easy to make and delicious. You'll find a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian options, all balanced in nutrients. Most dishes are straightforward, avoiding overly complex or exotic ingredients.

There are plenty of exciting options for those who enjoy a bit more spice. HelloFresh doesn’t just stop at its main meals. The menu also features over 100 weekly choices, including snacks like charcuterie-style boards, sandwiches, and more.

HelloFresh’s menu caters to a wide range of tastes without overwhelming you with complexity. The simplicity of the dishes makes it ideal for families or anyone new to meal kits, offering both classic and adventurous options.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh offers customizable meal kits through HelloCustom. This allows you to alter sides or proteins in over 12 meals each week. This flexibility is great for tailoring meals to your liking. Find out more in my colleague’s HelloFresh review.

The service provides 6 different meal plans. These include Meat & Veggies, Veggie, Family Friendly, Fit & Wholesome, Under 20 Minutes, and Pescatarian. You can mix and match meals from any of these plans to suit your preferences.

The ability to mix meals from different plans offers a diverse dining experience. Whether you prefer vegetarian dishes or need quick and easy options, HelloFresh has you covered, making it a versatile choice for various dietary needs.

Is It Good Value?

HelloFresh is an excellent option for families. It caters to diverse dietary needs and offers meals that are both tasty and quick to prepare. This makes it a convenient choice for busy households.

HelloFresh pricing is reasonable, especially with larger orders that reduce the per-serving cost. A box of 6 meals for 4 people costs $107.75 for your first purchase when you use our link. Shipping costs stay the same for any weekly order.

5. Home Chef – Best Customizable Meal Kits

Home Chef offers customizable meal kits that suit a variety of preferences and experience levels. New customers also enjoy a fantastic opening discount (I’ve linked the latest live code in the table below). The exact details change regularly, but you can usually expect money off your meals and even free shipping.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu at Home Chef is diverse, featuring pasta, meatballs, rice bowls, and burgers. This variety caters to different tastes, making it a flexible option for families or individuals. Learn more in my colleague’s tested Home Chef review.

Home Chef allows for the addition of extra protein to most entrees. You can also add sides, snacks, and desserts, enhancing your dining experience with a wider range of choices.

While Home Chef provides options for calorie-conscious, carb-conscious, vegetarian, and a few keto-friendly meals, it's not the go-to for strict dietary needs. However, there are still numerous choices to suit different preferences.

What Makes It Special?

Home Chef's Customize It feature stands out, allowing ingredient swaps in meals. This option means you can tailor dishes to your taste preferences or dietary requirements.

For instance, steak in a meal can be replaced with chicken or Impossible Burger. Some meals also offer the choice of upgrading to organic or USDA-choice meats for an additional cost.

A notable recent addition is prepared lunches that only need heating (pictured above). Many dishes contain common allergens like gluten and dairy, but you can exclude these during sign-up, although it may limit the menu options.

Is It Good Value?

Home Chef is ideal for busy families needing quick meal solutions. The variety of meal kits, oven-ready meals, and other options simplify dinner time for those with hectic schedules.

Pricing for Home Chef starts at $9.99 per serving. The minimum order is 2 meals per week for 2 people, and options are available for up to 6 people.

6. BistroMD – Best Dieting Meals

BistroMD offers simple weight loss with calorie-controlled, chef-made prepared meals. These meals are designed to be both satisfying and nutritious, containing fewer than 450 calories. You can’t get a free box but there are some great discounts available on your first order (you’ll find our exclusive code in our comparison table below).

What’s on the Menu?

BistroMD's menu features calorie-controlled breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. This approach simplifies your diet management, eliminating the need to track every bite. With a focus on portion control, it ensures effective weight management. Learn more about simple weight control in my colleague’s tested BistroMD review.

The variety on offer includes American classics and exotic Middle Eastern dishes. Some popular choices are Chicken, Rice & Cheddar Casserole, and Turkey Breast with Herbed Brown Gravy. Each meal is balanced with the right mix of fats, carbs, and protein.

It offers 7 specialized plans: Signature, Gluten-Free, Heart-Healthy, Diabetic, Menopause, Keto, and Vegan. The Vegan menu is a welcome addition, but note that there are fewer meals to choose from.

What Makes It Special?

BistroMD provides access to dietitians and fitness experts. This support is a standout feature, differentiating it from other meal delivery services. With this professional guidance, adopting a healthier lifestyle becomes more achievable.

Unlike many meal services, BistroMD is designed with weight loss in mind. This focus is especially beneficial for those looking to shed pounds without the stress of meal planning. However, consulting a physician is advised for those with specific health concerns.

The support from dietitians and fitness experts has proven effective for long-term health improvements. This aspect is crucial in fostering lasting dietary changes. It's a significant advantage for those committed to a healthier lifestyle.

Is It Good Value?

BistroMD impressed me with its selection of snacks. The EATS program offers high-protein, high-fiber snacks to curb unhealthy cravings. Options like cinnamon toast pretzels and blueberry parfait protein bars are both delicious and diet-friendly.

Prices start at $6.59. For families or couples, a 15% discount is also available, making it a cost-effective option for group weight loss efforts. Overall, for those on a weight loss journey, BistroMD could be beneficial in some instances.

7. Purple Carrot – Best 100% Plant-Based Meals

Purple Carrot offers a 100% plant-based menu, focusing on real vegetables over imitation meat. It caters to a variety of dietary preferences with meal kits, prepared meals, and additional items. As a new customer, you can save significant money on your first few boxes.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu features creative plant-based dishes like Mac n’ Cheese and Portobello Tortelloni. Items like Elote Corn showcase the diversity and flavor of its offerings. These meals are a testament to the variety and appeal of plant-based cuisine.

In addition to dinner options, breakfast and lunch are also covered. You can start your day with Peach Melba Overnight Oats and enjoy a Green Goddess Bowl for lunch. This range ensures that plant-based eating is convenient and enjoyable throughout the day.

Purple Carrot also offers a Plantry section for extra items. Here, you can find indulgences like donuts and gazpacho, as well as plant-based protein options. This section adds an extra layer of variety to your plant-based diet. Learn more about its large variety of plant-based items in my colleague’s tried-and-tested Purple Carrot review.

What Makes It Special?

Purple Carrot's menu caters to a wide range of dietary needs. With tags like High-Protein, Soy-Free, Nut-Free, and Gluten-Free, making informed choices is easy. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with specific dietary requirements.

The menu draws inspiration from global cuisines, offering an adventurous eating experience. You'll find dishes influenced by Middle Eastern, Asian, and Mediterranean flavors. This diversity ensures that plant-based eating is never boring.

It stands out for its focus on both health and flavor. This balance is crucial for a satisfying plant-based diet. The menu's variety and nutritional balance make it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers.

Is It Good Value?

For vegans or those who simply prefer a plant-based diet, it doesn’t get better than Purple Carrot. Its pricing starts at $11.00, providing flexibility in meal quantities and combinations.

Though you save if you buy the largest order, there are 2 different minimum orders. Subscriptions start at 3 meal kits equaling 2 servings or 6 single-serving prepared meals per week. You can order up to 3 kits of 4 servings each or 10 prepared meals per delivery.

8. Nutrisystem – Best Calorie-Controlled Meals

Nutrisystem offers specialized weight loss programs with a focus on portion control and balanced nutrition. Its meals are prepared, and it’s tailored for those aiming for sustainable weight loss and health improvement. Right now, there's a great discount on all weight loss plans, (but this offer might not last forever!).

What’s on the Menu?

Nutrisystem's meals are designed to be low in calories, focusing on lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables. This composition is key to promoting weight loss while ensuring nutritional balance. It's a practical approach to calorie control.

The menu spans meals, snacks, and desserts for all main meals. Favorites include Mushroom Parmesan Soup with Chicken, Classic Tuna Salad, and Spicy Kung Pao Noodles. There's also a variety of frozen meals for quick, convenient options.

In addition to meals, Nutrisystem offers protein shakes and bars. These are great for snacking or as meal replacements, contributing to the overall dietary balance. This variety ensures you don't get bored with your meal options. Find out more about the vast menu of weight loss-friendly options in my colleague’s Nutrisystem review.

What Makes It Special?

Nutrisystem has a diverse range of plan options. I like that the company makes an effort to cater to you no matter your age or gender. To me, this makes Nutrisystem one of the most feature-rich weight loss plans out there.

You can also personalize your weekly meal plans by selecting your favorite dishes. This customization adds flexibility to your diet plan, making it easier to stick to. It helps to keep the diet interesting and tailored to your tastes.

The meals are convenient, requiring no cooking, and can be quickly heated in a microwave or oven. Some items don’t require any heating at all, either, which adds to the convenience factor. Each delivery comes with a large box of individually packaged meals and a meal plan booklet. This setup makes meal management straightforward.

Is It Good Value?

Nutrisystem's pricing starts at $9.64 per day, including free shipping on 2-month auto-deliveries. While it's not the cheapest option, the convenience, and comprehensive support make it worthwhile for some.

However, I found some of the meals to be overly processed. Sometimes, they contain a lot of sugar and salt, so I recommend checking out a service like Factor instead. But this is only a handful of items out of hundreds that are otherwise really solid!

9. Eat Clean – Best Health-Focused Meals

Eat Clean is dedicated to providing nutritious prepared meals for health-focused individuals. These meals are perfect for those with busy schedules, requiring just heating before eating. As a new customer, you can save a lot of money with our coupon code!.

What’s on the Menu?

EatClean caters to busy individuals with a variety of healthy, convenient prepared meals. Whether you're looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks, it’s got you covered. This variety ensures you're never short on healthy options.

The meal plans include paleo, keto, and plant-based options. Each meal is high in protein, with gluten-free and low-carb alternatives available. This diverse range caters to various dietary needs and preferences.

With Eat Clean, you can enjoy meals like savory breakfast bowls, hearty lunch salads, and satisfying dinners. There's also a selection of snacks and desserts for a little indulgence. All these options make sticking to a healthy diet effortless and enjoyable.

What Makes It Special?

Each meal is crafted by skilled chefs using only the finest natural ingredients. This focus on quality ensures that each dish is not only healthy but also delicious. It's a gourmet experience in the comfort of your home.

Eat Clean is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly packaging. This approach aligns with the needs of environmentally conscious consumers. The packaging is recyclable and biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact.

Every meal comes individually packaged with clear heating instructions. This convenience makes it easy to enjoy a nutritious meal without any hassle. It's perfect for those with a busy lifestyle.

Is It Good Value?

I like Eat Clean because of its simple approach. With prices starting at $4.30 per serving, it offers an affordable way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The meal plans, varying from 6 to 20 meals per week, cater to different needs. 

You can modify your plan or pause your subscription anytime, and orders over $99 get free shipping. This flexibility and affordability make Eat Clean a practical choice for maintaining a paleo diet.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Free Trial Meal Delivery Services

When choosing a free trial meal delivery service, it’s crucial to consider not just the initial cost but also the variety, convenience, and ongoing affordability of the service.

• Free trial or discounts: While true free trials are rare, many meal delivery services offer significant discounts for the first few boxes. Look for offers that reduce the price substantially without requiring a long-term commitment. This approach allows you to test the service at a lower cost, making it easier to decide if it's right for you in the long run. For this reason, Factor is my number 1 pick.

• Menu variety: A diverse menu is key in a meal delivery service, as it caters to different tastes and dietary needs. Check if the service offers a range of cuisines, caters to specific diets like vegan or gluten-free, and regularly updates its menu. This ensures you won't get bored and can accommodate any dietary changes or preferences in the future. Check out Green Chef for a varied menu of exquisite meals.

• Convenience: The main appeal of meal delivery services is convenience. Evaluate how easy it is to order, the flexibility of choosing your meals, and the reliability of delivery. Also, consider the amount of preparation required. For example, some services offer prepared meals, while others provide ingredients for cooking. If you want some really quick meal kits, I recommend checking out Blue Apron.

• Budget-friendliness: Assess the long-term affordability of the service beyond the initial discount period. Compare the cost per meal, look for hidden fees like shipping, and consider the subscription's flexibility in skipping weeks or canceling. A budget-friendly service should align with your regular food spending without compromising on quality. HelloFresh is one of the most budget-friendly options today.

FAQ

Does HelloFresh have a free trial?

Unfortunately, no, it doesn’t. No meal delivery services have free trials. However, all of the options on this list here today offer great discounts for first-time customers. For example, you can get money off your meals plus some free bonuses using our discount code for Factor.

What is the cheapest alternative to HelloFresh?

One of my favorite HelloFresh alternatives is Green Chef. New customers benefit from discounts like money off several boxes and even free shipping. With all of this being for organic ingredients, this is something I can stand behind.

What is the cheapest meal plan site?

One of the most affordable meal delivery services is Blue Apron. With meals starting at just $4.00, you really can’t go wrong. You can also find prepared meals and meal kits with no apparent maximum weekly order.

Best Free Trial Meal Delivery Services — Final Score