CINCINNATI — In October 2022, The Kroger Co. partnered with Rachael Ray to launch a line of Home Chef meal kits. 

“Rachael Ray, widely known for her quick, easy-to-prepare recipes, popular cooking shows and best-selling cookbooks, and Home Chef have come together to offer a series of meals from new Rachael recipes that are simple, convenient and delicious,” said Dan De La Rosa, group vice president of fresh merchandising. “Personalized food experiences do not have to be complicated. We know customers have busy schedules and we’re excited to offer special meal kits that even the most inexperienced home cook can prepare, offered in collaboration with Rachael Ray.”

The first kit created under the partnership was Rachael Ray’s personal recipe for steakhouse burgers with Dijon mushrooms and onions. Following meal kits included pork lo mein with carrots and bok choy, spicy sloppy Joes with oven fries and more.

The meal kits were available in more than 13,000 Kroger stores through mid-March.

In January 2023, Chicago-based Home Chef held a giveaway to kick off the new year.

Throughout the last two weeks of January, consumers submitted their goals for 2023, in 500 words or less, to the company as an entry to a meal kit giveaway.

According to the company, the giveaway winners were notified in an email Feb. 15.

Ten contestants received three months of meal kits, and an additional grand prize winner received an entire year of meal kits along with $5,000.

“At Home Chef, we know that a simplified mealtime routine makes other aspirations in life a bit easier too,” said Shira Schwarz, VP of brand marketing for Home Chef, “Whether you want to cook more with family at home, commit to a fitness routine or learn a new skill, Home Chef is excited to provide that extra ease and convenience to help fuel 2023 goals, in and out of the kitchen.”