10 Best Meal Delivery for Kids 2023: Top Picks

Many meal delivery services aren't tailored to children's needs. As a parent, you recognize that while there's no shortage of meal delivery options out there, not all of them cater to the unique tastes and dietary requirements of kids. The best meal delivery for kids understands the simpler tastes and special nutritional requirements of children.

I tested and reviewed a variety of meal delivery services. I took into account factors like menu diversity, ingredient quality, simplicity of meals, child-friendliness, and customization options. Based on these criteria, I've shortlisted the top 10 meal delivery services specifically for those seeking meals for their children.

HelloFresh is my top recommendation for kids and their parents. Its extensive menu comprises mostly simple dishes, which I love. The meals are tasty without relying on overly complex or exotic ingredients. They're also customizable, making it easy to adjust according to your kids’ needs and preferences.

The Best Meal Delivery for Kids Reviewed

1. HelloFresh – Best Kid-Friendly Meal Kits

HelloFresh offers a diverse selection with over 50 meal kits every week. With options catering to various tastes, it makes it easy for parents to find meals that kids will love. Its standout for families is the Family Friendly plan, which even allows for some dishes to be tweaked via customization. Find out more about customization in our review.

There are multiple meal plans to explore. While the Family Friendly option is a favorite for kids, the Fit & Wholesome, Quick & Easy, Meat & Veggies, Veggie, and Pescatarian plans are worth a look. Within these, you might discover dishes that your kids will find tempting.

Flexibility is a key feature of HelloFresh. Regardless of the plan you're on, you can select any meal from the entire menu. This means if your kid spots a meal they want to try from another plan, you can easily add it to your order.

Some of the top kid-friendly meals include the Make & Take Pita Pizzas and the Street Cart-Style Burgers. These meals are not only delicious but also fun, which can make dinner time more exciting for the little ones. They’re also not overly exotic or fancy, which kids will probably appreciate.

Dietary preferences are also well accommodated at HelloFresh. For families with vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, or those watching carbs or calories, it has options. However, be aware that all kits come from a shared kitchen, so those with severe allergies should exercise caution.

Its menu celebrates global flavors. Beyond American classics, kids can enjoy dishes inspired by Japanese, Middle Eastern, and French cuisines. This can be a great way for them to explore and appreciate global cultures through their taste buds.

But for kids especially, I find the HelloCustom feature is a game-changer. Available for over 12 dishes each week, it allows for significant customization. If your kid isn't fond of a certain protein or side, you can easily switch things up to suit their preferences. Options will depend on which meal is in question.

Beyond just meal kits, there's the HelloFresh Market. This feature lets you buy grocery essentials. It's a handy option, especially for busy parents looking to cut down on trips to the local grocery store.

Pricing for HelloFresh starts at $3.32 per serving. You have the flexibility to choose 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 meals per week for either 2 or 4 family members.

2. Home Chef – Best Family-Friendly Menu

Home Chef offers a variety of meals for families with kids. The highlight is its all-new Family menu, tailored specifically for families with kids and those catering to pickier eaters. From the Culinary Collection to oven- or grill-ready meals and Express meal kits for those hectic evenings, there's an option that fits every family's schedule and taste.

Diverse dishes cater to the preferences of kids. The menu spans from pasta, meatballs, and rice bowls to burgers. Two kid favorites include the BBQ Chicken Flatbreads and the Butter Cracker-Crusted Chicken Cutlet. These dishes make mealtime exciting and ensure your children are eager to dig in.

The "Customize-It" feature gives you control over ingredients. You can make swaps to cater to your child’s specific tastes. Swap steak for chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or the Impossible Burger. Some dishes even allow for an upgrade to organic or USDA-choice meats, though it comes at an added cost.

Extra protein can be added to many entrees as well. This is a perk if you want more substantial portions for growing kids or have teenagers with bigger appetites. It ensures they’re satisfied and get the nutrients they need. Find out more about how you can customize your meals with Home Chef in our full review.

Home Chef caters to some dietary restrictions. Filters for calorie-conscious, carb-conscious, and vegetarian meals make it easier to select the meals suited to your needs. While a few keto-friendly recipes are now available, there’s no keto filter. It’s worth pointing out that strict vegan options are missing. However, with a bit of modification at home, some vegetarian meals can be made vegan-friendly.

Common allergens are present in many dishes. This includes ingredients like gluten and dairy. You can choose to exclude these during sign-up, but be aware that it might restrict your menu choices.

There are also sides, snacks, and desserts available. Besides the main courses, Home Chef has an array of options that cater to diverse palates, including items that will undoubtedly be a hit with the younger crowd. We all know that kids love their sweets – I sure did when I was a kid!

Prepared lunches are also now on the menu. These are a convenient option for busy weekdays. Just heat them up, and they're ready to serve, saving you precious time.

Pricing starts at $7.99 per serving. The minimum order requirement is 2 meals for 2 people each week, with variations available for up to 6 people.

3. Fresh and Easy – Best Quick Meals

Fresh and Easy specializes in quick meals under the Home Chef brand. Parents who are often in a rush but still want nutritious, home-cooked meals for their kids can rely on Fresh and Easy. With this brand, you still have the luxury to explore the extensive Home Chef menu, including its new Family menu tailored specifically for young eaters.

Fresh and Easy meals carry specific labels on the Home Chef menu. These labels, such as Express, Fast & Fresh, or Oven-Ready, make it a breeze to spot the quickest options for your busy schedule.

It offers a variety of salad entrees paired with pre-cooked proteins. These salads are a godsend for those evenings when you need something light, healthy, and easy to throw together for the kids. Find out how Fresh and Easy is one of my top picks for kids in my colleague’s full review.

The Home Chef menu expands your meal options beyond Fresh and Easy. While Fresh and Easy is ideal for quick meals, the main Home Chef menu gives you a broader selection. 

You can mix and match meals from both menus to your heart's content. Kid favorites include the Cheesy Tex-Mex-Style Chicken Pasta or the Bacon and Guacamole Chicken Sandwich – but these aren’t the only good options for kiddos!

Home Chef's additional options are available with Fresh and Easy. So, if you're looking to add some snacks, desserts, side dishes, protein packs, or beverages to your order, you're in luck. It’s perfect for rounding out your child’s meal experience.

Look out for the Plus and Family tags on meals. These tags point you to dishes with premium ingredients or those with larger portions. It means your kids are getting the same top-tier ingredients you'd find with main Home Chef dishes.

The "Customize-It" option lets you adjust proteins in most Fresh and Easy meals. This is great for those times when you know your child might prefer chicken over beef, or vice versa. But remember, this doesn't apply to the Fast and Fresh microwaveable options since those are already prepared and mixed in ready-to-heat containers.

Fresh and Easy meals start at $7.99 per serving. Prices can fluctuate depending on the meal choice, and the total might shift weekly. The minimum order is 2 meals that serve 2 people each week, making it suitable for parents with one or more kids. And if you've got a bigger household, the company has you covered for up to 6 people.

4. Green Chef – Best Organic Meals for Kids

Green Chef presents diverse meal plans, most of which work well for kids. It offers kits tailored for various diets, like gluten-free, plant-based, and more. You can mix and match recipes from its broad menu, making it easy for you to cater to your child's ever-changing tastes.

The specific plans are:

• Mediterranean

• Calorie Smart

• Quick & Easy

• Plant Based

• Protein Packed

• Keto

• Delicious Discoveries

• Gluten Free

I don’t particularly recommend keto or calorie-restricted diets for kids unless they’re absolutely necessary – but that’s up to individual parenting styles. Meals from the other plans will suit kids better. For a family-friendly plan, try HelloFresh.

Kids get a taste of adventure with Green Chef. For instance, the Creamy Turkey Bolognese is a refreshing change from the usual and trite broccoli and chicken-style dinners. Such dishes are ideal for young ones eager to explore different flavors.

I also love that Green Chef is committed to organic ingredients. Its meals are crafted with certified organic veggies, eggs, hormone-free meats, and wild-caught seafood. It’s nice to know that your child is consuming high-quality ingredients with each bite.

Aside from that, the company sources ingredients from local farms. By procuring directly from small-scale producers, it emphasizes a minimal environmental footprint, supporting your eco-conscious values.

Preparation is also a breeze with Green Chef. The meals are designed to be easy with prepped ingredients like pre-cut veggies. Most dishes take 30-40 minutes to cook, while the Quick & Easy options are ready in under 25 minutes – which is perfect for busy evenings.

Every meal kit includes detailed recipe cards. These cards outline nutrition facts, ingredients, pantry needs, and cooking times. You can also access this information online, offering convenience when planning meals for your child.

A colleague of mine gave Green Chef 2 thumbs up. They found the meals to be both delicious and kid-friendly – learn more about this in their detailed Green Chef review.

Green Chef goes beyond dinner with its menu. It offers breakfast options such as Southwest Potato Breakfast Bowls and Blueberry Oatmeal. Plus, there are add-ons like salads, kid-friendly snacks, and extra protein choices, allowing you to diversify your child's meals.

Pricing starts at $9.99 per serving. It provides options from 3 dishes for 2 people up to 4 dishes for 6 people weekly. This lets you choose based on your family size and needs.

5. Factor – Best Prepared Meals for Fussy Kids

Factor offers meals that microwave in 2 to 5 minutes, making busy evenings easier for you. If you've ever faced the evening rush with a hungry child in tow, you'll appreciate these convenient meals. Favorites among young eaters include the Shredded Chicken Taco Bowl.

The meals come to your doorstep fresh, so you don’t need to worry about thawing frozen dishes. Fresh meals often translate to better flavors, and in turn, this might just get your child more excited about dinner time. Factor holds onto taste and nutrition by steering clear of freezing.

All its ingredients come from humane and sustainable farms. This is an ethical choice you can feel good about. When you feed your child with Factor, you're also supporting farms that respect the environment and animal welfare. Learn more about sustainability and ingredient quality in my colleague’s Factor review.

There are no artificial flavors or preservatives in these meals. You're giving your child food that’s as close to homemade as it gets, without all the hassle. The absence of these additives means the meals are not only tastier but healthier too.

Factor provides diverse dietary options, from vegan to keto. It understands that children have varied tastes and dietary needs. Whether your child is exploring a plant-based diet or you're seeking low-carb options, Factor has you covered.

The menu is entirely gluten-free, making allergy accommodations a breeze. For parents of kids with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, this is a game-changer. You won't need to scrutinize every meal's ingredients list; Factor has done that work for you.

A free 20-minute nutrition consultation is available before you order. You can discuss your child's specific needs, preferences, and any dietary restrictions. This personal touch ensures you choose the best meals for your little one.

Prices begin at $6.19 per serving when you go for the maximum order. You can tailor your orders based on your family's needs, choosing between 6 to 18 single-serving meals per week. This flexibility allows you to find the right balance for your schedule and budget.

6. Dinnerly – Best Affordable Meal Kits

Dinnerly is a wallet-friendly option for families. As one of the most cost-effective meal kits in the US, it's a relief for parents on a budget. With kids and their never-ending appetites, you'll find that Dinnerly stretches your dollar further. Learn more about Dinnerly’s low pricing in my colleague’s full review.

It offers simple yet high-quality recipes. Dinnerly’s straightforward approach focuses on fewer ingredients, avoiding the fancy and exotic. Kids will enjoy meals like the Ground Pork & Poblano Quesadillas and the Low-Carb Creamy Italian Grilled Chicken because of their familiar tastes.

The menu is diverse, catering to various needs. Whether you're seeking kid-friendly dishes, vegan options, or no added gluten meals, Dinnerly has you covered. It's an excellent choice for families, especially when catering to kids with specific dietary preferences.

Dinnerly offers a taste from around the world. Even though it's budget-conscious, the meal kits don’t skimp on global flavors. Dishes like Ramen Carbonara and Falafel Gyros allow your kids to explore tastes from different cultures if they’re interested in something more adventurous.

Customization is part of the Dinnerly experience. Dinnerly offers some customization, albeit less than some competitors like Home Chef. This flexibility lets you tailor meals to your family's liking.

Extras are available for those sweet cravings. Apart from the main meals, Dinnerly occasionally provides desserts and ready-to-eat meals. It's a nice bonus for those days when you need a quick treat or meal for your kiddos.

Dinnerly’s pricing starts at $2.12 per serving if you go with the largest order, which covers 6 meals for 4 people every week. You can choose order sizes ranging from 2 to 6 meal kits weekly for either 2 or 4 people, giving you the flexibility to decide based on your family's needs.

7. Marley Spoon – Best Martha Stewart-Inspired Meals

Marley Spoon has collaborated with Martha Stewart. This collaboration is what makes it a top choice for families across the US. With this partnership, kids have access to over 90 menu options labeled as Kid Friendly, offering both diversity and a touch of Martha's renowned culinary magic. Learn more in my colleague’s Marley Spoon review.

Kid favorites include the Fast! Linguine Alfredo and Steakhouse Burger & Oven Chips. Such dishes stand out not just for their taste but also for their appeal to children. With options like these, meal times become an exciting experience rather than a chore.

Marley Spoon caters to various dietary needs. Whether your child is vegetarian, on a low-calorie diet, dairy-free, or you're just looking for nutritious options, this service has got you covered. This adaptability means more inclusive meals for everyone at the table.

The menu offers a global culinary journey. Beyond classic American dishes, it provides a taste of different cultures with dishes like Thai Lemongrass Salmon. Plus, with a variety of desserts, breakfast items, and special bundles, it ensures that meal times are always exciting.

Most of Marley Spoon's dishes are quick to prepare. You'll find that dishes are ready in about 30 to 40 minutes. With over 70% of the meals classified as Easy, it's also a fantastic way to introduce kids to cooking, turning meal prep into quality bonding time.

It offers customization for many dishes. Say you're looking for gluten-free pasta or want to swap out a protein; Marley Spoon allows such tweaks. This flexibility means meals are tailored to your family's specific preferences.

Sustainability is a priority for Marley Spoon. It takes eco-conscious steps in its operations, from using environmentally friendly packaging to working toward carbon neutrality. This ensures you're not only feeding your kids but also taking care of their future planet.

Prices start at $2.99 per serving. The available options allow parents to choose between 2 to 6 meal kits weekly for either 2 or 4 diners. And while it might not be as budget-friendly as options like Dinnerly, it provides great value for the quality and variety on offer.

8. Purple Carrot – Best Plant-Based Meals

Purple Carrot offers 100% plant-based meals. The service focuses on real vegetables, not imitation meats. Although it has meal kits available, its prepared meals are especially suitable for kids in my experience. This means your children get genuine plant goodness in their diet without relying on faux meat.

Preparation is quick with Purple Carrot. It understands your time crunch. Its meal kits need roughly 25 to 30 minutes of your attention. If you're really strapped for time, the ready-made meals can be warmed up in the microwave in a mere 2 to 3 minutes.

Some kid favorites from the menu are the Mac n’ Cheese, Portobello Tortelloni, and Elote Corn. These options strike the right balance between familiar tastes and adventurous new flavors, so your young ones stay both intrigued and satisfied.

It’s not just about dinner with Purple Carrot. The morning rush or lunchtime crunch is also taken care of. Options like Peach Melba Overnight Oats make for a tasty start to the day, and the Green Goddess Bowls can provide a refreshing lunchtime meal. Find out about Purple Carrot’s array of extras and add-ons in my colleague’s review.

The "Plantry" section adds variety to your orders as well. While the main meals are satisfying, sometimes you might want a little extra. This section allows you to include treats like donuts, a refreshing gazpacho, or even some plant-based protein options in your order.

Dietary needs are front and center in their menu design. All parents want to keep dietary restrictions in check. Purple Carrot labels meals with tags such as High-Protein, Soy-Free, Nut-Free, Gluten-Free, and <600 Calories. And since every meal is 100% plant-based, you can be certain there’s no dairy involved.

Prices start at $8.50 per serving, but you have the flexibility to choose different meal combinations and quantities that fit your family's needs. The minimum order is 3 meals of 2 servings each for meal kits, or at least 6 single-serving prepared meals weekly.

9. EveryPlate – Best Basic Recipes for Kids

EveryPlate competes closely with Dinnerly in affordability. It’s designed to offer uncomplicated meal kits with a minimal ingredient list.

Most meals are tailored for young taste buds, such as the Chicken Parm or the zesty Southwest Pork Flautas. Learn more about the kid-friendly options in my colleague’s EveryPlate review.

EveryPlate’s meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. Parents can whip up EveryPlate meals in as few as 20 minutes. Time is of the essence when you're juggling work, errands, and family time.

EveryPlate offers a menu of around 25 options every week. As a parent, it’s easy to fall into the trap of rotating the same meals. But with EveryPlate, you get a refreshing lineup. On top of the main courses, you have a wide selection of extras to sprinkle into the mix.

EveryPlate offers 5 meal plans. These include Meat & Veggie, Veggie, Family Faves, Quick & Easy, and Nutrish & Delish. You can mix and match dishes from different plans. While specialty diet options might be unavailable, I do at least appreciate the variety on offer (especially considering its low cost).

EveryPlate features dishes from around the world. Kids sometimes want to try new flavors, and EveryPlate brings them a taste of places like Mexico and Japan. For kids ready to explore, meals like Sweet Thai Chili Lettuce Wraps could be a hit, for instance.

There's also a decent range of add-ons to add to your kids’ meals. Breakfast items, salads, soups – they’ve thought of it all. You can also beef up your order with proteins like salmon, steak, and kid-favorite chicken strips. However, do keep in mind that dessert lovers might be a tad disappointed here.

EveryPlate scales its offerings to fit various family sizes. You can order as few as 3 meals for 2 people or go big with 6 meals for 4 people weekly. Plus, the more you order, the better the value per serving. For example, the largest order drives the cost down to just $1.49 per serving.

10. Nurture Life – Best Meals for Toddlers and Older Kids

Nurture Life offers healthy finger foods for toddlers making the big leap from purees to solids. Some tasty examples from its diverse menu are the BBQ Pulled Pork or the Chicken and Mac.

Around 45 different recipes greet you every week when you explore its menu. This ensures your child never gets bored and always has a variety of wholesome options to choose from. Read more about the menu in our Nurture Life review.

Dietary preferences aren’t an issue here. It offers 10 unique options to cater to specific needs, such as gluten-free, soy-free, coconut-free, vegetarian choices, and much more. You can easily filter by any of these on the primary menu.

The meals hit the sweet spot for children aged 1-8, but don’t fret if your child is a bit older. It provides meals up to the age of 12. Additionally, for those busy days, its menu includes portable "On the Go" meals and snacks brimming with healthy ingredients. If you’re looking for meals the whole family can enjoy, check out HelloFresh.

Each meal undergoes scrutiny by registered dietitians. This guarantees that your child is receiving not just tasty, but also nutrient-rich meals that promote growth and overall well-being.

Pre-chopped Finger Foods stand out in its offerings. Offerings like Beef Meatloaf paired with Broccoli & Squash aren’t just tasty but also nutritious. By choosing it, you’re taking a step toward promoting healthier eating habits in your child, presenting them with nutritious alternatives to the all-too-tempting junk food.

Affordability is a key feature of Nurture Life. Prices start at $5.99 for 16 items per week. You also have the option for 6, 10, or 13 items per week, but keep in mind that the more you order, the lower your per-item cost becomes.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Meal Delivery for Kids

Here’s what I considered when compiling this list. I recommend keeping these points in mind when choosing a meal delivery service for your kids:

• Convenience: Choose between meal kits and prepared meals. Meal kits like those offered by HelloFresh require cooking but also offer a chance for kids to learn. This might be time-consuming though. Prepared meals, like those offered by Factor, are quick and easy, ideal for busy parents. Choose based on your schedule and preferences.

• Fun factor: Kids love fun and appealing meals. Opt for services that offer colorful, creatively presented dishes. A visually exciting meal can make a difference in a child's willingness to eat. I recommend giving Dinnerly a go.

• Balanced meals: Look for providers that offer nutritionally balanced meals. Growing kids require a mix of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats. Companies with dietitian-approved menus can be a safer bet. Nurture Life offers healthy, kid-friendly dishes for a range of diets.

• Allergy aware: Before settling on a service, ensure they cater to kids' dietary restrictions or allergies. Services that clearly label meals or allow customization can be particularly handy, especially for children with severe allergies or intolerances. Home Chef allows excellent customization options, and you can exclude allergens from your menu choices when you sign up.

FAQ

Is HelloFresh good for picky eaters?

Yes, HelloFresh is my top pick for kids. The menu features a wide range of choices, and even the picky ones will find something they like. Meals aren’t too fancy or exotic, which means that your kids will like more of the options. Everything comes measured and ready to cook, making meal prep easy for parents and fun for the kiddos.  

What meal service is best for kids?

Home Chef is one of my top picks for this year. It offers a wide range of meals to choose from each week, with options that cater to various dietary needs. These include low-calorie, low-carb, and vegetarian. It also has a specific Family menu filled with options that cater specifically to families, picky eaters, and kids.

Is there a kids version of HelloFresh?

Yes! I believe Dinnerly is one of your best options for kids. Its prices are some of the lowest in the industry. It also features 90+ basic, kid-friendly recipes that are not over-the-top, overly fancy, or exotic. Find these by looking for the Kid Friendly tag. That means kids are more likely to enjoy a wider range of its offerings than some other leading competitors.

Best Meal Delivery for Kids in 2023 — Final Score