7 Best Meal Delivery Services for Singles in 2024

I know from experience how uninspiring – and sometimes wasteful – cooking for yourself can be. That’s where meal delivery services can be super helpful; not only do they save you time, money, and wasted ingredients, but they give you tons of recipe ideas, too. 

To help you find the right service, my colleagues and I have put all of the services on this list through their paces to deliver the top 7 for individuals and those who live alone. Whether you’re looking for quick, single-serving dishes to eat at your desk or after the gym, or meal kits that offer plenty of leftovers, there’s a meal delivery service on this list for you. 

My top pick is Factor, thanks to its varied and exciting range of freshly prepared meals and its wide selection of extras, including breakfasts, desserts, and smoothies. That said, each of the services on my list shines in its own way.

The Best Meal Delivery Services for Singles Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Prepared Meals for Singles

Factor stands out with its single-serving prepared meals. Combining convenience with quality, these meals are crafted from premium ingredients and are dietitian-approved, offering a superior dining experience. We tested and reviewed Factor, and found the meals to be tasty and authentic.

What’s on the Menu?

Factor's menu is diverse, catering to various dietary needs with dedicated plans for keto, vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, high-protein, and low-calorie diets. This range ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. The meals are designed to be both nutritious and satisfying.

The service is characterized by its no-prep, microwave-ready meals. All dishes are delivered fresh, eliminating the need for thawing, and can be heated in about 3 minutes. This feature saves time and reduces cleanup, making Factor an excellent choice for those with busy lifestyles.

Top-rated meals are a highlight of the Factor menu. These customer favorites are identified for their exceptional taste and popularity. The service continuously updates its offerings, ensuring that the best-rated meals are easy to find and enjoy.

What Makes It Special?

Factor’s meals aren’t just convenient; they’re also made with high-quality ingredients. This includes humanely raised proteins and some organic produce, ensuring a meal that’s as ethical as it is delicious. Each dish is prepared by in-house chefs, reflecting a commitment to culinary excellence.

The service goes beyond just meal delivery by offering dietary support through its nutrition coaching programs. New subscribers receive a free 20-minute virtual session, with further coaching available. This support is ideal for those looking to overhaul their eating habits or achieve specific fitness goals.

Another special aspect of Factor is its flexibility in mixing and matching meals from different plans. While subscribers can choose a specific plan initially, they always have the option to select meals from various plans. This versatility makes it easy to tailor meals to changing dietary needs or preferences.

Is It Good Value?

Factor is an affordable option for premium, single-serving meals. The service offers a range of order sizes, from 6 to 18 entrees per week, catering to individual needs and schedules.

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

2. Blue Apron – Best Easy Meals for Singles

Blue Apron provides a great culinary experience for singles, offering both meal kits and prepared meals. With a variety of choices each week, this service caters to different cooking preferences and dietary needs, making it a suitable option for a wide range of customers.

What’s on the Menu?

Blue Apron's menu includes over 80 meals each week. The meal kits are designed with ease in mind, featuring clear instructions and step-by-step photos. Alongside these, Blue Apron also offers a selection of single-serving prepared meals for added convenience.

Blue Apron’s menu covers a range of cuisines. You’ll find everything from grain bowls and shrimp tacos to fettuccine, steak, and more each week. There’s a lot of Italian and Mediterranean inspiration, but also popular American fare, including some tasty-looking craft burgers.

There’s also a huge range of add-ons to choose from, including fresh, prepared meals in single portions. There are also breakfast items like Homemade Granola and Yogurt Bowls with Pineapple-Mango Compote, salads, sides, desserts, and extra proteins such as skin-on salmon fillets or black bean and red pepper patties.

What Makes It Special?

The best option for singles is the Prepared & Ready plan as every fresh dish comes in a single portion. These ready-made meals can be on the table in as little as 2 minutes, so they’re great for busy nights.

The meal kits bottom out at 2 servings per recipe, but it means you’ll have leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day. Find out more about more in our tested review.

A wide range of add-ons is another highlight of Blue Apron. Options include breakfast items, soups, salads, sides, desserts, and extra proteins. This variety allows customers to personalize their orders further and adds an extra layer of convenience and choice.

Is It Good Value?

Blue Apron starts at $4.00 per serving. The minimum order for meal kits is 2 meals for 2 people and for prepared meals is 4 single meals.

The prepared meals are slightly more expensive than the meal kits, but this is pretty standard for the industry in my experience. Taking into account its excellent quality and variety, Blue Apron is both an affordable and sustainable option for those who live alone.

3. BistroMD – Best Weight Loss Meals for Singles

BistroMD offers a convenient solution for those aiming to lose weight or manage health conditions through diet. This service provides single-serving meals for every day of the week, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner (plus snacks), eliminating the need for cooking and calorie counting. Learn more in our tested BistroMD review.

What’s on the Menu?

BistroMD's menu predominantly features American cuisine, with a focus on meat-based dishes. Entrees like Meatloaf with Honey Bourbon Glaze and Turkey Breast with Herbed Brown Gravy are typical offerings. These dishes are designed to be satisfying and flavorful, catering to a variety of tastes.

For breakfast, BistroMD provides a selection of both sweet and savory options. Choices include pancakes, waffles, and protein-packed omelets, ensuring a delicious and nutritious start to the day. The variety of breakfast options caters to different preferences and dietary requirements.

In addition to main meals, BistroMD also offers BistroMD EATS, a range of essential and tasty snacks. These snacks, including whey protein bars, shakes, granola, and nut mixes, are designed to be high in protein and fiber. They provide convenient and healthy options for snacking between meals.

What Makes It Special?

BistroMD meals are cooked by in-house chefs and delivered flash-frozen to ensure freshness. Each meal only requires heating for a few minutes, offering convenience and quality. The meals are doctor-designed, guaranteeing a balance of macronutrients and the absence of trans fats, artificial sweeteners, and additives.

The service offers separate plans for men and women, as well as specialized programs for specific medical conditions. Options include Heart-Healthy, Diabetic-Friendly, Gluten-Free, and a Menopause program. This tailored approach ensures that dietary needs are met with precision and care.

BistroMD also provides the support of registered dietitians, enhancing the overall experience. This professional guidance is invaluable for those managing health conditions or pursuing weight loss goals.

Is It Good Value?

BistroMD's pricing starts at $6.59 per serving, with options to order 2 or 3 meals per day for either the full 7 days or 5 days per week. The flexibility in meal plans and frequency caters to varying needs and schedules, making it a practical choice for those seeking a structured meal program.

The 7-day plan includes 1 "cheat" night, offering a break from the routine, while the 2-meal-per-day option omits breakfast. This structure allows for some personal choice and flexibility within the diet plan.

4. Purple Carrot – Best Vegan Meals for Singles

Purple Carrot is ideal for singles who follow a plant-based diet or anyone looking to add more vegetarian options to their repertoire. The service offers both meal kits and prepared dishes that are not only vegan but also rich in flavor and variety, catering to a range of dietary preferences.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu at Purple Carrot features dishes that emphasize whole, natural plant-based ingredients. Options like Black Bean Enchilada Pasta with Sweet Peppers and Lime showcase a blend of flavors and nutrients. Even comfort food cravings are catered to with occasional plant-based burger options.

Meal kits typically require 30 to 35 minutes of cooking time, but Purple Carrot also offers Less Prep options. These include pre-chopped veggies and ready-made sauces, further simplifying the cooking process. This variety caters to both those who enjoy cooking and those looking for convenience.

In addition to meal kits, Purple Carrot provides prepared meals that are quick to heat and serve. Dishes like Peanut Thai Noodles with Tofu and Shiitake-Edamame Stir-Fry offer convenience without sacrificing taste. However, it's important to note that customers must choose between meal kits and prepared meals when signing up, but these can be mixed and matched in the same order.

What Makes It Special?

Purple Carrot stands out by celebrating plant-based ingredients in their natural forms rather than relying on meat substitutes. This approach leads to a menu packed with diverse and innovative vegetarian dishes, providing a delightful culinary experience for vegans and non-vegans alike.

The meals are thoughtfully crafted to ensure that each dish is tasty and healthy, making plant-based eating both enjoyable and accessible. Find out more about Purple Carrot’s gourmet meals in our tested review.

For those looking for quicker meal options, Purple Carrot offers lunch and breakfast dishes that take only 5 to 15 minutes to prepare. These meals are designed to serve up to 4, providing a convenient solution for almost a whole week's worth of breakfasts or lunches. Additionally, the Plantry section offers add-ons like plant-based cheeses and sweet snacks.

Is It Good Value?

Purple Carrot’s pricing starts at $11.00 per serving, based on the largest plan size. The service requires a minimum order of 3 meal kits that serve 2 per week, making it a reasonably priced option for those seeking plant-based meals.

The service also offers single-serving prepared meals, available in batches of 6, 8, or 10. This flexibility in ordering caters to different needs and preferences, allowing customers to choose the quantity and type of meals that best fit their lifestyle. 

5. Home Chef – Best Customizable Meals for Singles

Home Chef stands out for its wide variety of meal types, catering to different culinary skills and time constraints. From quick microwaveable meals to more elaborate dishes for special occasions, Home Chef offers something for every schedule and preference.

What’s on the Menu?

Home Chef's menu includes standard meal kits, Express meal kits that can be prepared in about 15 minutes, Oven-Ready options, and microwaveable meals. The prepared lunch meals come in single servings, otherwise, the minimum portion size is 2. This diversity ensures that regardless of how much time you have, there's a convenient and tasty option available. Learn more in our tested Home Chef review.

For those special occasions, the Culinary Collection offers more complex recipes with restaurant-quality proteins like sirloin steak, craft burgers, and salmon. These gourmet options are perfect for hosting and impressing guests with sophisticated and delicious meals.

Vegetarians have a good selection with about 6 dishes per week, and some recipes offer the option to switch proteins for Impossible Burger. However, vegan options are limited, as many dishes contain dairy in addition to meat.

What Makes It Special?

Home Chef's Customize It feature is a major highlight, offering various protein options for each dish. This flexibility allows you to swap or upgrade proteins easily, tailoring meals to your tastes and dietary needs. The ease of customization enhances the overall dining experience.

In addition to meal kits, Home Chef offers extras like breakfasts, salads with pre-cooked proteins, desserts, beverages, bread, and spreads. These can be ordered separately and sometimes come with discounts when purchased in pairs or bundles, adding value to your order.

For those seeking convenience, Home Chef provides extra proteins a la carte, which can be paired with side dishes for quick lunches. Customers can also purchase these proteins in bundles, ranging from Essential to Premium, suitable for stocking up and varying meal plans.

Is It Good Value?

Home Chef's pricing begins at $9.99 per serving, offering a range of 2 to 6 meal kits each week with 2, 4, or 6 servings. This pricing structure makes it a versatile option for individuals, couples, or families, catering to different household sizes and budgets.

6. HelloFresh – Best for Menu Variety

HelloFresh is celebrated for its family-friendly, crowd-pleasing recipes, featuring a mix of vegetarian, vegan, and classic dishes. This variety makes it a favorite for singles seeking delicious meals with the bonus of leftovers for the next day.

What’s on the Menu?

HelloFresh's menu spans a wide range of cuisines, including classic American, Indian, Italian, and Moroccan dishes. This extensive selection ensures there's something to satisfy every palate, even for the pickiest eaters. The Hall of Fame category features the best-loved recipes, highlighting customer favorites.

The service also includes a Premium Picks collection, offering gourmet meals with high-end proteins like seafood and steak. While these options are pricier than standard meal kits, they're ideal for special occasions or when you want to indulge in a luxurious home-cooked meal.

HelloFresh is known for its easy-to-follow recipes, making it accessible even for novice cooks. This ease of use is a significant draw, as it allows anyone to prepare delicious meals without prior cooking experience or expertise. Learn more about how its meals are simple to prepare in our tested HelloFresh review.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh offers the flexibility to customize some dishes by swapping proteins or sides. This adaptability caters to individual dietary preferences and needs. The menu is further simplified with labels such as Spicy, Calorie Smart, Protein Smart, Easy Cleanup, and Dietitian Win, making it easier to choose meals that fit your lifestyle.

The service caters to different needs with plans like Under 20 Minutes and Fit & Wholesome. These specialized plans streamline meal recommendations each week, ensuring you get dishes that align with your dietary goals and time constraints.

HelloFresh subscribers also gain access to the HelloFresh Market, a convenient source for pantry and fridge staples. The market offers fresh produce, proteins, snacks, quick-cook meals, breakfasts, and desserts, making it a one-stop shop for all your weekday meal needs.

Is It Good Value?

Customers can order between 2 and 6 meals per week, with the option of 2, 4, or 6 servings per meal. Larger meal boxes come at a higher overall cost but offer better per-serving rates, while smaller boxes cost more per serving.

HelloFresh's best-value box (6 meals for 4 people) is just $107.75 for your first purchase when you use our link. This may not be ideal for singles, but it's a decent option if you want to stock up on quality food or invite friends over. 

7. Green Chef – Best for Organic Ingredients

Green Chef is known for its USDA-certified organic meal kits, emphasizing balanced and flavorful dishes. This service focuses on high-quality ingredients and creative recipes, catering to a variety of dietary preferences and needs.

What’s on the Menu?

Green Chef's menu is varied, featuring dishes with Mediterranean, Asian, and Mexican influences. The recipes are designed to be both healthy and flavorful, such as the Gyro-Spiced Pork Tenderloin Kale Salad. Each dish showcases complex flavor profiles, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

For vegans and vegetarians, Green Chef offers a range of appealing options. Dishes like Pesto and Kale Salad Flatbreads and Coconut Curry-Glazed Cauliflower with Jasmine Rice are among the choices. These meals are crafted to be as delicious as they are nutritious, catering to plant-based diets without compromising on taste.

Most entrees from Green Chef take about 30 minutes to prepare, with some ingredients arriving ready to use. This includes premade sauces and marinades, which simplify the cooking process. The focus on convenience makes it easy to enjoy homemade meals without extensive prep time.

What Makes It Special?

Green Chef stands out for its commitment to USDA-certified organic ingredients and balanced meals. Every dish is thoughtfully designed, featuring proprietary spice blends, marinades, and sauces. This attention to detail elevates the culinary experience of each meal.

The service prides itself on high standards for sourcing ingredients. All meats are from local and trusted suppliers with high animal welfare standards, and seafood is ethically caught. This ethical sourcing reflects Green Chef's commitment to quality and sustainability.

Green Chef offers a selection of add-ons to complement its meal kits. These include extra proteins, vegan oatmeal bowls, and quick breakfast options like Smoky Bacon and Cheddar Egg Bites. These extras provide additional convenience and variety to the meal-planning experience. Learn more in our tested Green Chef review.

Is It Good Value?

Green Chef's pricing starts at $9.99 per serving, with options to order 3 or 4 meal kits per week. Each kit comes with 2, 4, or 6 servings, so singles can opt for the 2-person plan and save the leftovers. The pricing reflects the quality of the organic ingredients and the convenience of the meal kits.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Meal Delivery Service for Singles

Still unsure which service might be right for you? Here are some things to consider when making your choice: 

• Consider your cooking frequency: If you prefer not to cook at all, ready-made meals like those from Factor are ideal. However, if you don't mind cooking, meal kits are a good option, as they usually provide at least 2 servings, allowing you to cook one day and have leftovers for the next. My top choice for meal kits is Blue Apron with a great choice of healthy, gourmet style meals. You can order up to 5 meals for 4 people per week which is perfect if you’re having guests around.
  

• Think about your storage: Ready-to-eat meals are extremely convenient, but a dozen plastic trays can quickly fill up your refrigerator. If you're sharing a kitchen or have a small fridge/freezer, it's a good idea to check the smallest order size before signing up. Some services, like Factor and Purple Carrot let you order as few as 6 meals per week.
  

• Pick a service in sync with your lifestyle: Some meal delivery options make it cumbersome to alter your weekly orders. If you desire the flexibility to skip deliveries or modify order sizes—perhaps when entertaining guests—opt for a service that can meet these requirements. HelloFresh is well known for its excellent customer service. Although you can easily make changes to your order via your account, the customer service team is on hand to help you out should you have any problems.
  

• Don’t be afraid to switch: You may go through a couple of meal services before you find the one that’s just right for you. The meal delivery services I’ve listed have easy cancelation policies and excellent discounts for first-time customers.

FAQ

Which is the best meal delivery service for singles? 

Factor came on top for me as the best meal delivery service for singles. The menu features a great variety of easy prepared meals for every taste – and they all come in single servings.   

What meal delivery service is best for single seniors?

I would recommend BistroMD as the best service for seniors who live alone. The flash-frozen prepared meals are quick to heat-and-eat, and BistroMD has programs for a number of senior-friendly diet accommodations, including Heart-Healthy, Menopause, and Diabetic-Friendly plans.

What is the best prepared meal delivery service for singles?

Does Blue Apron have single meals? 

Yes. Blue Apron offers 2 types of meals – meal kits and prepared meals. The meal kits are 2 servings for 2 people every week, but the prepared meals are offered as a single serving. Choose from 16 prepared meals per week.  

Is HelloFresh good for singles? 

I’d say that HelloFresh can work for singles, especially if you don’t mind eating a lot of the same thing. The minimum order is 2 meals for 2 people per week – so as a single, you’ll end up having to eat the same dish for several nights. For me, it’s no problem as I eat a lot, but not everyone will do the same.

Is Home Chef good for singles? 

Absolutely. Home Chef offers meal kits that come in serving sizes for 2. This helps to cut down on weekly meal prep as you can just eat the same thing for 2 nights. For singles, meal prep can get tedious, so it’s nice to be able to prep once and eat twice!

Best Meal Delivery Service for Singles in 2024 — Final Score