Best Fresh Prepared Entrees of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Fresh prepared entrees are a convenient and delicious option for those who don't have the time or desire to cook. These pre-made meals are made fresh daily and come in a variety of flavors and cuisines. From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and mashed potatoes to exotic dishes like chicken tikka masala and pad Thai, there is something to satisfy every palate. The ingredients used are high-quality and fresh, ensuring that each meal is both nutritious and flavorful. With fresh prepared entrees, customers can enjoy a home-cooked meal without the hassle of cooking and cleaning up.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Tasty Bite Organic Indian Madras Lentils Cover #TOP 1
Tasty Bite Organic Indian Madras Lentils
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Fillo's Walking Tamales Savory Variety Pack Cover #TOP 2
Fillo's Walking Tamales Savory Variety Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Born Simple Mexican Chicken Rice Bowl Cover #TOP 3
Born Simple Mexican Chicken Rice Bowl
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fresh Prepared Entrees

Tasty Bite Organic Indian Madras Lentils

10220373
Tasty Bite Organic Indian Madras Lentils Cover
Tasty Bite Organic Madras Lentils, 10 Ounce, Pack of 6, Ready to Eat, Microwavable Entree, Vegetarian

Tasty Bite Organic Indian Madras Lentils is a pack of six microwaveable ready-to-eat entrees that bring bold Indian spices to your dinner table. Made with a mix of lentils and red kidney beans in a creamy tomato sauce, this meal is easy to prepare, taking only 60 seconds in the microwave. The product is made with all-natural ingredients, including certified organic and non-GMO, vegetarian, kosher, and gluten-free options. Additionally, it comes in a BPA-free pouch. The product offers a range of flavors with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options.

What We Like
Quick and easy to prepare in the microwave
Uses all-natural ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Offers a range of flavors with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options
#TOP 2

Fillo's Walking Tamales Savory Variety Pack

Pack of 7
Fillo's Walking Tamales Savory Variety Pack Cover
Fillo's Walking Tamales Savory Variety Pack of 7, Ready-to-Eat, Delicious, Gluten-Free, Preservative-Free, Vegan Friendly, Microwavable, Non-GMO (3 Salsa Verde, 2 Salsa Roja, 2 Habanero)

Fillo's Savory Tamales are the perfect on-the-go meal option. These ready-to-eat tamales come in three delicious flavors: Salsa Verde, Salsa Roja, and Habanero. You can enjoy them without any mess, as they are shelf-stable and don't require refrigeration. Simply grab a pouch, and they're ready whenever you are. Made with gluten-free and preservative-free ingredients, these tamales are a healthy choice. Each tamal packs a nutritious punch with up to 7 grams of protein and fiber, keeping you energized throughout your day. Plus, they are microwavable for added convenience—just heat them up in seconds!

What We Like
Ready-to-eat convenience
Gluten-free ingredients
High in protein and fiber
Microwavable for quick meals
#TOP 3

Born Simple Mexican Chicken Rice Bowl

Born Simple
Born Simple Mexican Chicken Rice Bowl Cover
Born Simple Prepared Meals - Ready to Eat Mexican-Style Chicken Rice Bowl | 16g Protein | 11 Oz (Pack of 3)

Born Simple Chicken Rice Bowl offers a convenient meal option made with wholesome ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken, brown rice, black beans, and yellow corn. You can enjoy a nutritious meal without worrying about preservatives or artificial additives. Perfect for busy days or relaxing evenings, these microwavable meals require no preparation—just heat them up and dig in. Each bowl is portioned for one, helping you avoid leftovers and waste. Plus, with 16 grams of protein per serving, you’ll feel full and satisfied, making it a great choice for a quick, healthy meal anytime.

What We Like
Wholesome ingredients
Quick and convenient
Perfect single serving
High protein content
#TOP 4

Born Simple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Born Simple
Pack of 3
Born Simple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl Cover
Born Simple Prepared Meals - Ready to Eat Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl | 10g Protein | 11 Oz (Pack of 3)

Born Simple Teriyaki Bowl offers a delicious and convenient meal option for your busy lifestyle. Made with real, wholesome ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken and fresh vegetables, you can feel good about what you’re eating. These meals are perfect for anyone looking for quick options, as they only require heating—no preparation or cleanup needed. Each bowl is a single serving, helping you avoid food waste and ensuring you get just the right amount. Plus, with 10 grams of protein per serving, you’ll stay satisfied and energized throughout your day.

What We Like
Wholesome, real ingredients
Quick and easy preparation
Single serving size
High protein content
Eco-friendly packaging
#TOP 5

Isadora Pork Chile Verde 15 oz

Isadora
15 ounce
Isadora Pork Chile Verde 15 oz Cover
Isadora Fully Cooked Pork Chile Verde 15 oz, Ready-to-eat, no refrigetarion needed

Isadora Pork Chile Verde is a delicious, ready-to-eat meal that's perfect for anyone on the go. Proudly made in Mexico, this dish features 100% pork, ensuring you get a hearty and satisfying flavor. With its convenient heat-and-serve option, you can enjoy a warm meal in minutes without any fuss. Plus, it’s shelf-stable, so you don’t need to worry about refrigeration. Whether you’re busy at work or just want a quick dinner, this meal provides a tasty solution without the hassle of preparation.

What We Like
Ready-to-eat convenience
100% pork quality
Quick heat-and-serve
Shelf-stable packaging
#TOP 6

Aahana's Lentils & Rice Bowls (Kitchari) Prepared Meals- 4 Pack

Aahana's Lentils & Rice Bowls (Kitchari) Prepared Meals- 4 Pack Cover
Aahana's Lentil & Rice Protein Bowl (Kitchari) Prepared Meals- Ready to Eat Meals, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Plant-Based Food- High Protein, Just Add Water Meals - Indian Food- 4 Pack

Aahana's Kitchari Bowls are a variety pack of four delicious vegetarian Indian meals that are gluten-free, non-GMO, and have no added sugar. Each meal is made with sprouted lentils and mung beans, which increases the vitamin B & C content and makes them easy to digest. All you need is water to prepare a healthy meal in minutes, making them perfect for on-the-go meals, camping, hiking, or as a quick meal for work lunch, TV dinner, or a healthy vegan snack. These high-protein power bowls are a must-have for every kitchen pantry and a guilt-free, healthy instant meal substitute for ramen and noodles.

What We Like
Gluten-free, non-GMO
No added sugar
Easy to prepare
High protein
#TOP 7

KJ Poultry Stuffed Chicken Breast Meal

1 Pack
KJ Poultry Stuffed Chicken Breast Meal Cover
KJ Poultry Kosher Ready Meals - Stuffed Chicken Breast Rice, MRE Meat Meals Ready to Eat, Gluten Free (1 Pack) Prepared Entree Fully Cooked, Shelf Stable Microwave Dinner, Travel Military Camping

KJ Poultry Meal offers a convenient dining experience with its ready-to-eat stuffed chicken breast. You can enjoy a delicious meal in just three minutes by microwaving or boiling it for a bit longer. This meal is made with high-quality ingredients and contains no preservatives or MSG, ensuring you receive a wholesome dish that tastes homemade. With a shelf life of up to three years, you can store it easily in various conditions, making it perfect for camping trips or emergency supplies.

What We Like
Quick preparation
High-quality ingredients
Long shelf life
Gluten-free options
#TOP 8

Hormel Compleats Meals - 6 Count

-092021-v5
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Hormel Compleats Meals - 6 Count Cover
Hormel Compleats Meals - Variety Flavors (6 Count - 7.5 to 10 Ounce Microwavable Bowls) - Beef Stew, Meatloaf, Roast Beef, Spaghetti, Chicken Alfredo, Turkey Dressing

Hormel Compleats Meals offer a convenient solution for busy individuals seeking a quick and satisfying meal. This pack includes six microwavable bowls, each ranging from 7.5 to 10 ounces, featuring delicious options like Beef Stew, Meatloaf with Gravy and Mashed Potatoes, Roast Beef with Gravy, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Chicken Alfredo, and Turkey with Dressing. These meals are perfect for lunch or dinner, allowing you to enjoy hearty flavors without the hassle of cooking. Simply pop them in the microwave, and you can have a warm, ready-to-eat meal in minutes.

What We Like
Variety of flavors
Quick and easy preparation
Microwavable convenience
Hearty portion sizes
#TOP 9

KJ Poultry Kosher Baked Ziti

1 Pack
KJ Poultry Kosher Baked Ziti Cover
Kosher Parve Ready Meals - Baked Ziti, MRE Meals Ready to Eat (1 Pack) Prepared Entree Fully Cooked, Shelf Stable Microwave Dinner, Travel, Military, Camping, Emergency Survival

KJ Poultry Baked Ziti offers a delicious and convenient meal option that adheres to strict kosher standards. You can enjoy a homemade taste with just a quick 3-minute microwave or a simple boil for 7-10 minutes. This fully cooked meal is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring no preservatives or MSG are included. With a long shelf life of up to 3 years, you can stock up for camping trips, emergencies, or everyday meals. Each dish is certified glatt kosher, giving you peace of mind about the dietary standards being met.

What We Like
Quick preparation time
High-quality ingredients
Long shelf life
Glatt kosher certification
#TOP 10

KJ Poultry Kosher Ravioli Meal

1 Pack
KJ Poultry Kosher Ravioli Meal Cover
Kosher Parve Ready Meals - Cheese Ravioli in Tomato Sauce, MRE Meals Ready to Eat (1 Pack) Prepared Entree Fully Cooked, Shelf Stable Microwave Dinner, Travel, Military, Camping

KJ Poultry Ravioli offers a convenient meal option that adheres to strict kosher guidelines, ensuring you enjoy a delicious dish. You can easily prepare this meal in just three minutes in the microwave or in boiling water for seven to ten minutes, making it a quick solution for busy days. Made from high-quality ingredients without preservatives or MSG, you can feel good about what you're eating. Plus, with a long shelf life of up to three years, you can stock up and always have a tasty meal ready when needed.

What We Like
Quick preparation time
High-quality ingredients
Long shelf life
Strict kosher certification
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are prepared meal delivery services worth it?

Yes, prepared meal delivery services are worth it, especially if you currently eat out frequently to save time. They offer cost savings compared to eating out, with home-cooked meals typically costing around $5 per serving, while eating out can cost over $20 per meal. Meal delivery services provide convenience, variety, and often come with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes.

2. Why did Freshly meals go out of business?

Freshly meals faced challenges in 2021 due to consumers shifting their food spending back outside of the home and economic uncertainty. Other meal delivery companies are also experiencing similar difficulties. The changing market conditions and increased competition may have contributed to Freshly's decision to go out of business.

3. What are the negatives of meal delivery service?

One downside of meal delivery services is the excess packaging. Meals often come individually packaged, and there are cold packs to keep the food fresh. It's important to be committed to recycling as much of the packaging as possible to minimize the environmental impact.

4. Why is HelloFresh so expensive?

HelloFresh meals may appear more expensive due to the added convenience they offer. The cost includes factors like recipe selection, grocery shopping, purchasing full-sized ingredients, and the assurance of a new meal without the risk of failure. The extra cost is for the convenience and time-saving aspects of the service.

5. How long do Freshly meals really last?

Freshly meals typically have a shelf life of 4-5 days. Each meal is clearly labeled with its name, nutrition facts, and reheating instructions. This allows you to plan and consume the meals within their recommended timeframe for the best taste and quality.

6. Do Freshly meals come frozen?

No, Freshly meals are delivered fresh and not frozen. They are meant to be kept in the fridge until ready to be consumed. This ensures better taste and quality. The meals can be easily reheated in the microwave, skillet, or oven for a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.

Editor's Notes

During our fresh prepared entree research, we found 24 fresh prepared entree products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 53,122 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fresh prepared entrees list. We found that most customers choose fresh prepared entrees with an average price of $24.91.

The fresh prepared entrees are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fresh prepared entrees, including TASTY BITE, Fillo's, Born Simple, Isadora, Aahana's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!