Family meal bundles look easy. That is why they quietly erode profit.
The enemy is not the discount. It is unmeasured portions, packaging, and add-ons. This guide shows how to price bundles so they scale without margin loss.
Quick Summary
- Cost bundles per person, not per tray
- Lock side portions before you set the price
- Add packaging and utensils as real line items
- Offer 1–2 paid add-ons to lift margin
- Reprice when costs move, not once a year
The Bundle Cost Formula
Bundle cost = (Main protein + Base carbs + Sides + Sauce + Packaging)
Target price = Bundle cost / Target food cost %Use the exact same formula as regular menu items. Bundles are not special. They are just larger servings.
Example: Family Meal for 4 (Pickup)
Assumptions (example):
- Protein: roasted chicken (32 oz cooked)
- Base: rice or potatoes (32 oz cooked)
- Sides: 2 x vegetables
- Sauce: 8 oz
- Packaging: 4 boxes + utensils
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Portion | Line Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 32 oz cooked | $9.60 |
| Base carb | 32 oz cooked | $2.10 |
| Veg sides | 2 portions | $2.40 |
| Sauce | 8 oz | $0.80 |
| Packaging | 4 sets | $1.40 |
| Total cost | $16.30 |
Target price at 30% food cost:
$16.30 / 0.30 = $54.33Working price range: $52–$58
Bundle Structure That Protects Margin
Use a 3-part structure:
- Core bundle (main + base + 2 sides)
- Upgrade (premium protein or extra side)
- Add-ons (dessert, beverages, bread)
Add-ons are where your margin lives.
Portion Control Rules That Matter
- Set a fixed cooked weight for proteins
- Use scoops for base carbs
- Pre-portion sides during prep windows
- Track packaging per order (not per day)
If you portion by feel, bundles will bleed profit.
Delivery vs Pickup Pricing
Delivery adds real costs:
- Platform commission
- Extra packaging
- Higher refund risk
Do not absorb that in the bundle price. Use a separate delivery price, even if it is only 8–15% higher.
When to Reprice
Use external signals instead of waiting too long:
- Food Away From Home CPI for demand-side inflation
- USDA food price outlook for ingredient pressure
Bundles should move when your ingredient basket moves.
How KitchenCost Helps
KitchenCost helps you:
- Store bundle recipes as one item
- Track packaging as a real cost
- Recalculate prices instantly when supplier costs change
Bundles are profitable when the math is clean. KitchenCost keeps it clean.
Related guides:
- US Menu Pricing Calculator
- US Delivery App Pricing Guide
- US Restaurant Portion Control Guide
- US Catering Cost Guide