Being a mom and also working full-time, with a full-time employed husband, we don't have tons of time or energy to devote to cooking. Frankly, we spend far too much money (and calories) on eating out, just because we don't have the inclination to plan ahead meals while grocery shopping.
For all those reasons, we decided to give Dream Dinners a shot. Cost savings are arguable... if I was a coupon junkie, plan-ahead-meal, person, there's no doubt it would be cheaper to grocery shop if you were organized enough (and had the time). But for folks who just go to the store and buy a bunch of stuff, and don't really plan ahead, and don't bother to do much with coupons, this way is cheaper.
Cheaper. But not cheap.
We signed up for the intro special of "18 servings". The intro special also includes a free 3-serving dinner entree as well, so a total of 21 "servings" for about $75. We did the 3-serving meals, so we got a total of 7 meals.
You can do either 3-serving or 6-serving portions. Since it's just the two of us, we did all 3-serving portions. We sampled a variety of dishes, including a build-your-own calzone, BBQ shrimp on skewers, and a bacon tortellini.
The assembly process itself is quite easy. No need to be intimated by complicated steps or confusing measurements. All the steps are clearly outlined and measurements are made fool-proof. My husband and I agreed this was a great project for folks who aren't great with cooking, and will help one build confidence with their culinary skills.
Once you've made all your meals, you slap directions already printed out on stickers on to the plastic bag where you put all the items for baking that dish. Then you take it home and stick it in the freezer. Voila!
The food itself is good, at least what we've had so far. The shrimp and calzone were a little bland, so we'll try to spice dishes up a bit next time we prepare. It's not the most delicious food, but it tastes homecooked (and is easy to prepare).
Next month, we're doing the standard minimum order of 36 servings (so that's 12 3-serving meals), and spent about $140 in advance. It's a little less than $12 a meal.
What gets 5-stars is the service! The husband-and-wife team who run the place are an adorable older couple who couldn't have been sweeter or more helpful.
I think we'll be regulars... so if you happen in on a Saturday morning and see me, please say hello! read more