7 Best Christmas Meal Delivery 2024: Festive Picks

This Christmas, perhaps you’re looking for something special to add to your dinner gathering. Maybe you’re looking for main courses, sides, and desserts that are quick and easy to prepare to take away the stress of cooking. Or, you might even be looking for some wines or delectable side dishes to add to your own main course.

Whatever the case may be, there are several great options you can choose from. My team and I have put together a list of the best Christmas meal delivery services in 2024. The right pick can help you enjoy your Christmas season in a relaxed manner without worrying about what to make, or how long it’ll take.

Overall, I’ve found Factor to be the best option for this year. The company is offering a fully prepared Holiday Spread for Two special that includes meat, sides, and dessert. But Factor’s not the only great option out there – read on to learn about my other favorite picks!

The Best Christmas Meal Delivery Services Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Fully Prepared Holiday Box for 2

Factor specializes in prepared Christmas meals. They arrive fresh and ready to heat and eat. Its other meals come in the form of lunches, dinners, snacks, sides, desserts, and more. Cuisines are also varied. Learn more in our tested Factor review.

What’s on the Menu?

Factor is offering a Holiday Spread for Two box. This box features Grilled Filet Mignon and Roasted Leek-Yukon Mash and finishes off with a Gingerbread-Spiced Cheesecake. It’s completely prepared, which is designed for ease eliminating the need for cooking. You just have to heat it in the microwave or oven.

For larger gatherings, you're not limited to just 1 box. You can order as many as you need to accommodate everyone. The ingredients are top-notch, featuring beef tenderloin, unsalted butter, leeks, white truffle oil, and more, ensuring a quality dining experience for your holiday gathering.

What Makes It Special?

Factor’s meals are prepared, which means there's no time wasted on shopping, cooking, or cleaning. This also means you get to spend more time enjoying your family gathering rather than being tied up in the kitchen. It’s convenience at its best, especially during the busy Christmas season.

Additionally, this special holiday box is marked with a carb-conscious label. This is ideal for those who are watching their carb intake. However, it's important to note that the box contains allergens like milk, tree nuts, and eggs. Although every effort is made, there is still a risk of cross-contamination for those with severe allergies.

Is It Good Value?

In my experience, the convenience Factor offers with its prepared meals is invaluable, particularly during a period as hectic as Christmas. This ease of use translates to real value for anyone looking to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment during the holidays.

Regarding variety, besides the holiday box, there's a minimum order requirement of 6 meals, which can be scaled up to 18 per order. Pricing varies by order size, with larger orders providing the best savings. For example, you can get 18 meals for $103.41 on your first order with our link.

2. Green Chef – Best Festive Meal Kits for up to 6 People 

Green Chef is known for its organic ingredients and gourmet meals. Its holiday meal kits are ready in 30 to 60 minutes, offering convenience. It also provides a variety of other meals, cuisines, and extras.

What’s on the Menu?

This year, Green Chef is offering a few Christmas-themed meal kits and a holiday box. The meal kits include dishes like Organic Chicken with Maple Fig Sauce and Beef Tenderloin with Porcini Cream Sauce. Additionally, the Festive Fare for Four box includes Beef Tenderloin, Broccoli Au Gratin, and Fennel Apple Salad.

For extras like appetizers and desserts, check the Add-Ons menu in the Weekly Menu section. These additional items can complement your holiday meals. They provide a complete and festive dining experience for you and your guests. Learn more in our tested Green Chef review.

What Makes It Special?

Green Chef uses organic ingredients wherever possible in its meal kits. Its holiday meals are also quick to prepare, taking only about 55 minutes at most. This feature is perfect for busy holiday schedules.

However, common allergens like milk, tree nuts, and sesame are present in these meals. All ingredients are packed in the same facility, so cross-contamination can occur. This information is crucial for those with severe allergies.

Is It Good Value?

Green Chef offers easy-to-prepare meal kits that serve 4 to 6 people. These meals don’t take more than an hour to prepare, allowing more time with loved ones. This efficiency is ideal for festive gatherings.

The minimum order is 3 meals for 2 people per week, with options up to 4 meals for 6 people. Pricing starts at $9.99 per serving.

3. Blue Apron – Best Variety of Christmas Boxes

Blue Apron stands out ​​for those seeking a gourmet touch to their Christmas festivities. It not only specializes in gourmet holiday boxes, but it also offers a variety of add-ons and extras. The marketplace items further enhance your festive dining experience. Find out more in our Blue Apron review.

What’s on the Menu?

Blue Apron has 3 holiday boxes: a Holiday Roast Box, a Vegetarian Holiday Box, and a Holiday Ham Box. The Holiday Roast Box features a succulent beef tenderloin, while the Vegetarian Holiday Box offers a delightful array of plant-based options. For a more traditional choice, the Holiday Ham Box includes a classic Baked Ham with a Brown Sugar-Honey Glaze.

Accompanying these mains are equally tempting sides. Picture your table adorned with Cheesy Potato Bake with Crème Fraîche & Parsley, Honey-Orange Glazed Rainbow Carrots with Pistachios & Mint, and Arugula & Orange Salad with Pistachios & Creamy Date Dressing. 

The Smoky Delicata Squash with Pepitas & Almonds adds a unique twist to the spread. These sides are thoughtfully designed to complement the main courses, enhancing your overall Christmas dining experience.

What Makes It Special?

The 3 different holiday boxes offer a range of options to suit various preferences and dietary needs. This variety ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your Christmas gathering, whether you're looking for a vegetarian option or a traditional ham feast.

The Holiday Ham Box, serving 8 to 10 guests, is the largest, making it ideal for bigger gatherings. The other boxes are also designed to cater to groups of 6 to 10, depending on the selection. 

While these meals include common allergens like eggs, walnuts, milk, pistachios, peanuts, soy, and wheat, it’s important to check each ingredient label if you have severe allergies. Blue Apron takes care to list these ingredients, but the list here isn’t exhaustive.

Is It Good Value?

If you're seeking an all-in-1 Christmas box that simplifies your holiday preparations, these boxes offer great value. You get a complete meal, from mains to sides, without the hassle of planning and preparing each component separately.

Each box has separate pricing. The Holiday Roast Box is priced at $181.98, the Vegetarian Box at $121.98, and the Holiday Ham Box at $161.98. 

4. HelloFresh – Best Premium Holiday Boxes

HelloFresh excels in creating family-friendly meal kits that taste great and are easy to prepare. These meals typically take 20 to 30 minutes, though holiday meals may take slightly longer. The holiday options are distinct from regular meal kits. Learn more in our HelloFresh review.

What’s on the Menu?

HelloFresh's holiday lineup includes a regular and a premium Christmas box, each with a main dish, sides, and dessert. Offerings like Baked Christmas Ham and Lemon & Rosemary Roast Chicken showcase the variety. The Christmas Spiced Choc Chip Brownies, exclusive to larger boxes, also add a festive touch.

For the premium box, gourmet additions like Lemon Baked Salmon and Tartare Sauce elevate the dining experience. This box caters to those seeking a more luxurious holiday meal, distinguishing itself from the standard option.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh's holiday boxes are ideal for 4 to 14 people, offering everything needed for a complete meal. This includes main dishes, sides, and desserts, simplifying holiday meal planning. The convenience and completeness of these boxes make them stand out.

However, be mindful of allergens such as milk, gluten, and nuts. Cross-contamination is a possibility, so it's recommended to check each item for allergen information. This ensures a safe and enjoyable meal for everyone.

Is It Good Value?

The value of HelloFresh’s holiday boxes depends on your gathering's size and preferences. The regular Christmas Box costs between $199.99 and $389.99, serving 4 to 14 guests. This offers flexibility to choose a box that suits your party size and budget.

The Premium Christmas Box, serving 4 to 6 guests, is priced at $219.99. It's perfect for smaller gatherings where quality and convenience are prioritized. This makes it a worthwhile option for a hassle-free, premium holiday meal.

5. Home Chef – Best Individual Holiday Mains + Sides

Home Chef stands out for its Christmas offerings with a focus on individual sides and mains. Alongside its range of meal kits and ready-to-cook meals, Home Chef caters to special occasions with an array of add-ons, snacks, and extras, perfectly fitting for the holiday season.

What’s on the Menu?

The Christmas selection at Home Chef includes about 5 holiday-themed items. To access these festive options, it's best to check the menu for the week of December 18th. This allows for ample time to plan and order the perfect holiday meal, ensuring a stress-free Christmas celebration.

Home Chef differentiates itself from services like HelloFresh by offering individual Christmas items. You'll find options like Spiral Cut Roasted Bone-In Ham and sides like Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions and Maple Bacon Glaze, or the classic Sweet Potato Casserole.

What Makes It Special?

At Home Chef, you have the convenience of either selecting a main dish to match your homemade sides or vice versa. Unlike HelloFresh, Home Chef offers a more tailored experience, allowing you to curate your Christmas meal precisely as you envision it.

Common allergens in its offerings include milk and wheat, among others. It's essential to review each item's details. As all items are prepared in the same facility, there's a risk of cross-contamination. This information is crucial for those with severe allergies.

Is It Good Value?

When it comes to value, Home Chef stands out for its time-saving benefits. Most items, except for the ham, can be prepared in about 30 to 50 minutes. This efficiency means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time cherishing moments with family and friends during Xmas.

Home Chef’s prices start at $9.99 per serving for the largest order. The minimum order is 2 recipes for 2 people, up to 6 recipes for 6 people. Learn more about Home Chef in our official tested review.

6. BistroMD – Best Weight Loss Holiday Meals

BistroMD is committed to effortless weight loss. Offering a variety of healthy, balanced, and flash-frozen meals, each serving contains fewer than 450 calories. This approach ensures you feel full and satisfied during Christmas, while still supporting your weight loss goals.

What’s on the Menu?

BistroMD's Christmas menu uniquely blends traditional holiday flavors with a focus on health and nutrition. For the festive season, it offers classic options like roasted turkey with stuffing, herb-crusted beef roast, and even seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice pancakes.

These dishes are not only flavorful but are also carefully balanced in terms of nutrition, catering to those who want to enjoy holiday meals without straying from their dietary goals. Learn more about BistroMD’s dieting meals in our tested review.

Additionally, BistroMD ensures that people with specific dietary needs are not left out during the festive season. The Christmas menu includes gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and low-calorie options, making it easier for individuals with specific health requirements.

What Makes It Special?

BistroMD’s meals cater to those who want to lose weight. This service is especially beneficial for those who find the holiday season overwhelming or simply don’t want to spend more time preparing traditional meals. It’s also a great way to moderate your calorie intake.

Each meal is also crafted under the guidance of professional dietitians. This helps to ensure that the meals align with health and nutritional goals. I find this to be a nice added touch. However, allergens aren’t specifically listed – so you’ll need to check each meal’s ingredients list.

Is It Good Value?

BistroMD's Christmas meal delivery strikes a balance between cost, convenience, and quality. While the prices might be higher compared to regular meal kits, the specialized festive menu, nutritional planning, and the convenience of home delivery justify the cost for many. 

For those looking to enjoy a hassle-free, health-conscious holiday feast, BistroMD offers a valuable service. Prices start at around $6.59 per serving. Each meal you see on the website is single-serving.

7. Nutrisystem – Best Portion-Controlled Holiday Meals

Nutrisystem stands out as an excellent choice for those mindful of weight management during the festive season. It offers a balanced approach to holiday eating, making it easier to enjoy Christmas without compromising health goals. Find out more in our tried-and-tested Nutrisystem review.

What’s on the Menu?

Nutrisystem's holiday menu is crafted to combine traditional flavors with healthy eating. The menu features low-calorie versions of Christmas favorites like roasted turkey, herb-infused stuffing, and pumpkin pie. 

Each meal on Nutrisystem's Christmas menu is not just lower in calories, but also nutritionally balanced. This means an appropriate mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, ensuring that you're not just eating fewer calories, but also getting the right nutrients.

What Makes It Special?

What sets Nutrisystem apart is its focus on weight loss, even during the holidays. The meals are portion-controlled and calorie-counted, which helps prevent overindulgence. For those on a weight loss journey, this means enjoying the holiday spirit without derailing their progress.

Despite being health-focused, Nutrisystem doesn't compromise on taste. The meals are chef-prepared and easy to heat, offering convenience during the busy holiday season. Combined, this makes it great for those who want to enjoy festive, portion-controlled meals.

The company offers unique weight loss plans. There are plans for men, women, age-related plans, and even a plan for partners.

Is It Good Value?

Nutrisystem's Christmas meal delivery is not just about saving time or enjoying tasty, healthy meals. It's also a cost-effective choice for those looking to manage their weight during the holidays. Prices start at around $9.64 per day, depending on which plan you purchase.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Christmas Meal Delivery Services

Here’s what I considered while researching and choosing the top Christmas meal delivery services for this year:

• Meal type: Choose a Christmas meal delivery that caters to your specific needs. For larger gatherings, opt for a service that provides a comprehensive holiday box set, which includes a variety of main dishes, sides, and desserts. This ensures everyone's tastes are accommodated. For smaller or more intimate gatherings, consider services offering single meals or just the side dishes. I recommend Factor for 2 people, or HelloFresh for up to 14 people.

• Convenience: Select a service that aligns with your preparation preferences. If you enjoy cooking and have time, consider a meal kit that requires some preparation, adding a personal touch to your Christmas dinner. For those seeking simplicity, look for services offering pre-cooked meals or easy-to-assemble dishes. This decision can significantly impact your holiday experience, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen. Green Chef is 1 of my favorites for this year.

• Add-ons: Consider the extra touches that can enhance your Christmas meal. Many services offer add-ons like specially selected desserts, which can complement your meal and elevate the dining experience. Other extras might include side dishes, which can be a great help in meal preparation, or pantry items that add a gourmet touch to your dishes. These add-ons can turn a standard meal into a festive and memorable feast.

• Affordability: Determine a budget that works for you this holiday season. Christmas meal delivery services cater to a wide range of budgets. For those looking to splurge, there are luxurious options with gourmet dishes and exclusive ingredients. If you're on a tighter budget, there are still plenty of delicious and festive options available. Dinnerly happens to offer some of the most affordable Christmas desserts this year.

FAQ

What is a full Christmas dinner?

A full Christmas dinner typically includes a main dish like roasted turkey or ham, sides such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and various vegetables. It also often concludes with desserts like Christmas pudding or pie. 

For instance, Factor offers a prepared special holiday meal box for 2, designed to capture the essence of a traditional Christmas dinner without the hassle of extensive preparation and cooking. This is ideal for those seeking a festive, convenient dining experience during the holiday season.

What is the most popular food at Christmas?

The most popular food at Christmas varies by region. However, some traditional favorites include turkey, ham, roast beef, mince pies, and various seasonal vegetables. HelloFresh caters to these preferences with its premium holiday boxes, designed for 4 to 14 people. These boxes offer a range of options that include popular Christmas dishes like ham, stuffing, appetizers, and sides.

How far in advance should you prepare Christmas dinner?

Preparing Christmas dinner often starts days in advance, especially for elaborate menus. However, Green Chef's holiday meal kits, which can be prepared in just 30 to 55 minutes, offer a time-saving alternative. These kits provide a quick and efficient way to enjoy a festive meal, ideal for those who want to minimize prep time while still enjoying a delicious Christmas dinner.

Best Christmas Meal Delivery 2024 – Final Score