Recipe True Cost Calculator
Calculate the actual cost per serving of any recipe.
Enter ingredient prices and amounts to see how much each plate really costs.
Cost per Serving
Recipe True Cost breaks down the actual price of each serving in a home-cooked meal.
Cost per Serving = Total Ingredient Cost / Number of Servings
How to calculate ingredient cost:
Ingredient Cost = (Amount Used / Package Size) × Package Price- Example: Recipe uses 2 cups flour, bag has 20 cups, costs $4 → 2/20 × $4 = $0.40
Average home-cooked meal costs:
- Budget meal: $1.50–3.00 per serving
- Standard meal: $3.00–6.00 per serving
- Premium meal: $6.00–12.00 per serving
vs. Restaurant comparison:
- Home cooking saves 60–80% compared to dining out
- A $15 restaurant meal typically costs $3–5 to make at home
- Don’t forget to include oil, spices, and condiments as small costs
Pro tip: Enter total ingredient costs for the whole recipe below, then divide by servings.