This Whole Foods Deal Is the Ultimate Meal Prep Cheat Code

We’ve always loved the idea of meal-prepping—taking one weekend afternoon to shop for and prepare all the ingredients for satisfying breakfasts, lunches, and even dinners for the week ahead.

But then, when it comes time to actually do a full week’s chopping, cooking, and cleaning, the idea can become difficult to sustain, especially when other demands cut into our time for cooking.

The chain recently introduced a new Family Meal deal allowing customers to build a customizable Family Meal platter consisting of one deli entree and two deli sides each, for just $35 to feed four people. In addition, the chain offers pre-packed Family Meal platters in its prepared food aisle for as little as $28. 

What's Included

Among the entrees are two varieties of salmon (coconut macadamia nut-crusted or grilled), chicken (either grilled or lightly breaded), London broil, marinara beef meatballs and turkey meat loaf. The side options include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, among others.

The family meals have been a hit on social media in recent weeks, even among Whole Foods customers who are buying them to prep meals just for themselves. Each meal is enough food for four generously portioned servings, so they can be divided into four lunches or dinners for one person or two lunches or dinners for a couple to enjoy.

What People Are Saying

Creator Shay Click (@trainwithshay) gave the meals a “10 out of 10” in a recent viral TikTok video where she picked up grilled salmon and chicken meals, both paired with a potato side and green beans. In the video, Click pointed out that each meal could even be stretched into five servings because of the platters' heft. 

Another creator, @whoisraelin, also picked up a Whole Foods Family Meal in a recent video that racked up more than 2 million views. In a follow-up video, she praised the flavor of all three of her choices. The commenters on her videos agreed, saying, "I got this 3 weeks in a row, and it’s so awesome for meal prep. I usually pick up 2 trays," while another added, "I buy this and keep the tray at work for my lunches."

As someone who has personally tried the Meal Deal (three times, might I add!), I can confidently say the meals are tasty and generously portioned. My favorite combination so far was the breaded chicken and creamy mashed potatoes, paired with the fresh green beans. At a price per serving between $7 and $9, it’s a significant savings (and a healthier option) compared to delivery, with the added benefit of not having to do any prep, cooking, or cleanup yourself.