Meal Prep Calculator — Calculate Meal Preparation Costs & Savings

Meal Prep Cost Calculator

Calculate the cost per meal for your meal preparation. Compare savings vs eating out based on ingredient costs, portions, and meal frequency.

Step 1: Meal Details

$25
4

Understanding Meal Costs

Meal prep costs vary based on ingredients, portion sizes, and recipe complexity. Bulk cooking typically reduces cost per serving compared to single meals.

Step 2: Frequency & Comparison

$15

About Meal Prep Savings

Meal prepping typically saves 50-75% compared to eating out. Savings increase with more meals prepared and when using budget-friendly ingredients in bulk.

Meal Prep Cost Results

Summary
Meal Comparison
Breakdown

Cost Per Meal

$6.25
Based on $25 recipe cost and 4 servings
Weekly Savings
$87.50
Weekly Cost
$62.50
Monthly Savings
$375
Annual Savings
$4,550

Meal Type Cost Comparison

Meal Type Servings Cost Per Meal Weekly Savings*

*Compared to $15 takeout meals, 10 meals per week

Annual Savings Breakdown

Savings Formula

Savings = (Takeout Cost – Meal Prep Cost) × Meals Per Week × 52

To calculate savings: Subtract your meal prep cost from average takeout cost, multiply by weekly meal count, then multiply by weeks in a year.

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