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Frequently Asked Questions

How many people does a meal feed?

Our meals are sold by the portion to make it more convenient for you. One portion is built to feed a single person with a hearty appetite. In some cases, one portion can feed two people with light appetites such as young children. Our portions have an average total weight of roughly one pound. To see how many portions we recommend based on how many people you need to feed, please click below to view our Portion Calculator.


What size slow cooker should I use?

  • 1 Portion meals, soups, and dips cook best in a 2 to 3 quart slow cooker.
  • 2 Portions can cook in a 3 to 4.5 quart slow cooker. A 4 quart is the optimal size.
  • 3 Portions can cook in a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker. A 5 quart is the optimal size.
  • 4 Portions can cook in a 5 to 7 quart slow cooker A 6 quart is the optimal size.
  • 5 Portions can cook in a 6 to 8 quart slow cooker. A 7 quart is the optimal size.

Why are your cook times in ranges?

The suggested cook times for our meals are provided in a range to accomodate folks who leave home and let their slow cooker run while they're gone. If a meal says that it can be cooked from 4-12 hours, for example, the minimum cook time is 4 hours and the maximum time you should leave the meal in your slow cooker is 12 hours.

How long should I cook my meal?

There will be an instruction card in your bag, but any chicken or vegetarian meal should cook for 4-6 hours, any pork meal should cook for 6-8 hours, any beef meal should cook for 8-12 hours. All of our meals should be cooked on low heat. If you have misplaced the instruction card in your bag, you can view cooking instructions for each of our meals on our menu. If you have questions when cooking, please call us and we will be happy to help. Cooking times for meals may vary.

What if I only want one portion of something?

If you are only ordering one portion of a meal, we recommend that you have a smaller slow cooker to cook it in. The liquid, or gravy, is what warms and protects the meal. A larger slow cooker may cause the liquid to spread too thin and leave the center vulnerable to burning. A 2 quart slow cooker is perfect for single portions and will keep your food safe and delicious!

Can I cook a meal in my instant pot or pressure cooker?

For the most part, yes. We have additional cooking methods listed for many of our meals, you can view these by clicking on the item in question on our menu. You can view all of the meals we've tested for the instant pot and pressure cooker by clicking the button below.


Where do I find nutrition and allergen information?

You can find nutritional information simply by clicking on an item in our menu, or by visiting our Nutritional Information/Allergens Chart.


Can I use my microwave to heat up a meal?

Generally speaking, no. We only partially cook a majority of our meals so that they are as fresh for you as possible. You are not simply reheating a frozen dinner, you are cooking it through for the first time. Microwaves will not cook the meat thoroughly enough to make it safe for you and your family to eat.

That being said, we do offer a small number of dishes that are fully cooked and are safe to heat up in your microwave. You can view those meals by clicking here.

How long do meals last in the freezer?

Our meals are still OK to eat after up to 12 months in the freezer.

How do I leave a gift note with my order?

When you go to your shopping cart, there is a checkmark labeled, "Leave a gift note or special shipping instructions". When you check this box, a text box will appear where you can type a gift note or shipping instructions. Please see the screenshot below for reference.


Do I need to thaw my meals before cooking them?

No, thawing your meals is not necessary. All of our meals can be cooked from frozen with their normal cooking instructions.

How do I choose new meals for my plan?

First, you will need to make sure that you've created a whatacrockmeals.com account. You will have been emailed an invitation to create an account after signing up for your first meal plan. If you cannot find it, click here to create a new account. If you already have an account, log in. Once you're logged in, click "Manage Subscriptions" and then "Edit" next to your active subscription. From there, click "Update Contents", choose the meals you'd like, then click "Save".

Please note: Once a new shipment has been processed and packaged, we are unable to change the products in the shipment. Please make sure any changes are made prior to the shipment's processing date.

Do I need to have a meal plan to order from What a Crock?

A Meal Plan is not required to order from us. Please feel free to place a one-time shipping order at your own convenience!


How does billing and shipping work?

Most options bill and ship once a month, while our larger plans bill and ship biweekly. The billing and shipping for the plan you select will be displayed on that plan's page.

I just ordered, when will I receive my meals?

You will receive your first order within a few days of it being placed. Your future orders will be shipping weekly or monthly, depending on the plan you selected.

Do your meal plans offer options for dietary restrictions?

Not at this time, but check back soon! We plan on having a vegetarian option in the near future, with other options coming soon after that. Until then you can always select the Build Your Own Meal Plan option.

I already ordered, why is it still asking me to create an account?

This is normal. As long as you use the same email that you signed up for your subscription with, your account will sync and you will be able to view/edit your subscription once your account is created.

How do I cancel my meal plan?

First, you will need to make sure that you've created a whatacrockmeals.com account. You will have been emailed an invitation to create an account after signing up for your first meal plan. If you cannot find it, click here to create a new account. If you already have an account, log in.

If you want to cancel your meal plan, log in to your account, then click "Manage Subscriptions", then "Edit" next to the meal plan that you'd like to cancel. Towards the bottom of the page, you'll see a "Cancel Subscription" button. Click that to cancel your meal plan.

If you cancel your meal plan but decide you want to come back to it in the future, please log in as normal, then click "Re-activate" next to the inactive meal plan that you'd like to resume.

Are your meals shipped frozen?

Yes, our meals are shipped to you frozen and should be stored in your freezer until you're ready to eat them.

Do you ship to my state?

We ship to every US state, with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii.

How do I qualify for free shipping?

Qualifying for free shipping depends on two factors, the state you are shipping to and the total value of your order. As an example, free shipping kicks in at $99 or more and discounted shipping kicks in at $50 or more if you are shipping to an eastern state. The map below will help you see what criteria your order should reach to qualify for free or discounted shipping in your state.

Please note, your order value must reach the free/discounted shipping threshold after any discounts or coupons are applied to qualify.


Click image to zoom in.

How long will it take for my order to be delivered?

Shipping times of course vary depending on the destination of your order, as well as which day of the week your order is placed. For more information, please read the Expected Delivery Dates on our shipping information page by clicking the button below.


Are the meals shipped frozen? How should I store them?

Yes, all of our meals are shipped to you frozen in insulated packaging filled with dry ice. After their arrival, meals should be stored in your freezer until you're ready to enjoy them!

How do I get a lower shipping cost?

We offer both free and heavily discounted shipping rates to nearly every state. For most states, heavily discounted shipping rates are offered for every order with a subtotal of $50 or more, and free shipping is offered for every order with a subtotal of $99 or more. Please refer to the map below to see how you can receive discounted or free shipping.

Click image to zoom in.

My meals arrived thawed or damaged. What do I do?

If your order happens to arrive and any products are damaged or thawed, please contact us immediately. Meals that arrive partially thawed but the center is still frozen can still be placed in the freezer and eaten as normal. Any meals that arrive fully thawed, leaking, or with damage to the bag should not be eaten. Please take photos of any damage to your package if at all possible. We apologize for any inconvenience.


Can I provide special shipping instructions for my order?

Yes, you can! When you go to your shopping cart, there is a checkmark labeled, "Leave a gift note or special shipping instructions". When you check this box, a text box will appear where you can type a gift note or shipping instructions. Please see the screenshot below for reference.


Click image to zoom in.

Are your plastic bags BPA-free?

Yes, all plastic bags that we use containing food are BPA-free.

Can you send me a physical gift card?

No, we unfortunately cannot. We only offer physical gift cards at our retail stores. If you would like to give an online gift card as a physical gift to someone, we recommend printing the card out and putting it in a traditional greeting card.

Can I transfer my retail gift card for online use and vice-versa?

Yes, absolutely. In order to transfer your gift card, please contact us via phone, email, or chat.


I purchased a digital gift card and it was never sent to my email. What do I do?

First, if you have access to your order information, make sure that you entered the correct email at checkout. If you cannot access this info or know that you entered the wrong email address, please contact us right away so that we can resend your gift card.


How do I check my gift card's balance?

In order to check your gift card's balance, please contact us.


How do I place an order for pickup?

To place an order for pickup, simply select the Retail Location you'd like to order from, choose the meals you'd like, and place an order.

Once you arrive to the store at your pre-selected time, simply walk in and one of our team members will have your meals ready and waiting for you.


Do you offer curbside pickup?

Yes! All five of our retail locations offer curbside pickup. To place an order for curbside pickup, simply select the retail location you'd like to order from, choose the meals you'd like, then check the "Request Curbside Pickup" box in your shopping cart or at checkout.

Once you arrive to the store at your pre-selected time, give the store a call and they'll bring your order out to you. If you do not know the phone number for the store you're picking up at, please call 484-474-0451.


Do you accept EBT payment?

Unfortunately, we are only able to accept EBT at our Brookhaven retail location. We are unable to process EBT payment on our online store or any other retail locations.

Can I redeem a coupon when I place an order for pickup?

Yes, provided that the coupon does not indicate that it is invalid for use with retail/pickup orders. If you are placing an order on the phone or in-person, please let the retail associate who is assisting you know what the coupon code is and they can apply it for you.

I am interested in starting a fundraiser. How can I learn more?

Thank you for your interest in starting a fundraiser with us! To learn more and to request more information, please visit marketplacefundraising.com. To request more information, please click "Send Me More Info" and fill out the form. One of our representatives will reach out to you shortly after the form is filled out.


How do I place an order to support my fundraiser?

You are on the wrong website to place a fundraiser order and need to visit our partners at The Marketplace Fundraising.

To place an order that supports your organization's fundraiser, please follow the personalized link sent to you by the coordinator of your fundraiser. If you do not know/cannot find the personalized link, please reach out to us and we can provide it to you.

Any orders placed on this website cannot provide credit for a fundraiser!


Didn't find your answer?


How many people does a meal feed?

Our meals are sold by the portion to make it more convenient for you. One portion is built to feed a single person with a hearty appetite. In some cases, one portion can feed two people with light appetites such as young children. Our portions have an average total weight of roughly one pound. To see how many portions we recommend based on how many people you need to feed, please click below to view our Portion Calculator.


What size slow cooker should I use?

  • 1 Portion meals, soups, and dips cook best in a 2 to 3 quart slow cooker.
  • 2 Portions can cook in a 3 to 4.5 quart slow cooker. A 4 quart is the optimal size.
  • 3 Portions can cook in a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker. A 5 quart is the optimal size.
  • 4 Portions can cook in a 5 to 7 quart slow cooker A 6 quart is the optimal size.
  • 5 Portions can cook in a 6 to 8 quart slow cooker. A 7 quart is the optimal size.

Why are your cook times in ranges?

The suggested cook times for our meals are provided in a range to accomodate folks who leave home and let their slow cooker run while they're gone. If a meal says that it can be cooked from 4-12 hours, for example, the minimum cook time is 4 hours and the maximum time you should leave the meal in your slow cooker is 12 hours.

How long should I cook my meal?

There will be an instruction card in your bag, but any chicken or vegetarian meal should cook for 4-6 hours, any pork meal should cook for 6-8 hours, any beef meal should cook for 8-12 hours. All of our meals should be cooked on low heat. If you have misplaced the instruction card in your bag, you can view cooking instructions for each of our meals on our menu. If you have questions when cooking, please call us and we will be happy to help. Cooking times for meals may vary.

What if I only want one portion of something?

If you are only ordering one portion of a meal, we recommend that you have a smaller slow cooker to cook it in. The liquid, or gravy, is what warms and protects the meal. A larger slow cooker may cause the liquid to spread too thin and leave the center vulnerable to burning. A 2 quart slow cooker is perfect for single portions and will keep your food safe and delicious!

Can I cook a meal in my instant pot or pressure cooker?

For the most part, yes. We have additional cooking methods listed for many of our meals, you can view these by clicking on the item in question on our menu. You can view all of the meals we've tested for the instant pot and pressure cooker by clicking the button below.


Where do I find nutrition and allergen information?

You can find nutritional information simply by clicking on an item in our menu, or by visiting our Nutritional Information/Allergens Chart.


How long do meals last in the freezer?

Our meals are still OK to eat after up to 12 months in the freezer.

Can I use my microwave to heat up a meal?

Generally speaking, no. We only partially cook a majority of our meals so that they are as fresh for you as possible. You are not simply reheating a frozen dinner, you are cooking it through for the first time. Microwaves will not cook the meat thoroughly enough to make it safe for you and your family to eat.

That being said, we do offer a small number of dishes that are fully cooked and are safe to heat up in your microwave. You can view those meals by clicking here.

How do I leave a gift note with my order?

When you go to your shopping cart, there is a checkmark labeled, "Leave a gift note or special shipping instructions". When you check this box, a text box will appear where you can type a gift note or shipping instructions. Please see the screenshot below for reference.

CLICK TO ENLARGE SCREENSHOT

Do I need to thaw my meals before cooking them?

No, thawing your meals is not necessary. All of our meals can be cooked from frozen with their normal cooking instructions.

How do I choose new meals for my plan?

First, you will need to make sure that you've created a whatacrockmeals.com account. You will have been emailed an invitation to create an account after signing up for your first meal plan. If you cannot find it, click here to create a new account. If you already have an account, log in. Once you're logged in, click "Manage Subscriptions" and then "Edit" next to your active subscription. From there, click "Update Contents", choose the meals you'd like, then click "Save".

Please note: Once a new shipment has been processed and packaged, we are unable to change the products in the shipment. Please make sure any changes are made prior to the shipment's processing date.

Do I need a meal plan to order from What a Crock?

A Meal Plan is not required to order from us. Please feel free to place a one-time shipping order at your own convenience!


How does billing and shipping work?

Most options bill and ship once a month, while our larger plans bill and ship biweekly. The billing and shipping for the plan you select will be displayed on that plan's page.

I just ordered, when will I receive my meals?

You will receive your first order within a few days of it being placed. Your future orders will be shipping weekly or monthly, depending on the plan you selected.

Do your meal plans offer options for dietary restrictions?

Not at this time, but check back soon! We plan on having a vegetarian option in the near future, with other options coming soon after that. Until then you can always select the Build Your Own Meal Plan option.

I already ordered, why is it still asking me to create an account?

This is normal. As long as you use the same email that you signed up for your subscription with, your account will sync and you will be able to view/edit your subscription once your account is created.

How do I pause or cancel my meal plan?

First, you will need to make sure that you've created a whatacrockmeals.com account. You will have been emailed an invitation to create an account after signing up for your first meal plan. If you cannot find it, click here to create a new account. If you already have an account, log in.

If you want to cancel your meal plan, log in to your account, then click "Manage Subscriptions", then "Edit" next to the meal plan that you'd like to cancel. Towards the bottom of the page, you'll see a "Cancel Subscription" button. Click that to cancel your meal plan.

If you cancel your meal plan but decide you want to come back to it in the future, please log in as normal, then click "Re-activate" next to the inactive meal plan that you'd like to resume.

Are your meals shipped frozen?

Yes, our meals are shipped to you frozen and should be stored in your freezer until you're ready to eat them.

Do you ship to my state?

We ship to every US state, with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii.

How do I qualify for free shipping?

Qualifying for free shipping depends on two factors, the state you are shipping to and the total value of your order. As an example, free shipping kicks in at $99 or more and discounted shipping kicks in at $50 or more if you are shipping to an eastern state. The map below will help you see what criteria your order should reach to qualify for free or discounted shipping in your state.

Please note, your order value must reach the free/discounted shipping threshold after any discounts or coupons are applied to qualify.


Click image to zoom in.

How long will it take for my order to be delivered?

Shipping times of course vary depending on the destination of your order, as well as which day of the week your order is placed. For more information, please read the Expected Delivery Dates on our shipping information page by clicking the button below.


Are the meals shipped frozen? How should I store them?

Yes, all of our meals are shipped to you frozen in insulated packaging filled with dry ice. After their arrival, meals should be stored in your freezer until you're ready to enjoy them!

How do I get a lower shipping cost?

We offer both free and heavily discounted shipping rates to nearly every state. For most states, heavily discounted shipping rates are offered for every order with a subtotal of $50 or more, and free shipping is offered for every order with a subtotal of $99 or more.

Please refer to the map below to see how you can receive discounted or free shipping.

Click image to zoom in.

My meals arrived thawed or damaged. What do I do?

If your order happens to arrive and any products are damaged or thawed, please contact us immediately. Meals that arrive partially thawed but the center is still frozen can still be placed in the freezer and eaten as normal. Any meals that arrive fully thawed, leaking, or with damage to the bag should not be eaten. Please take photos of any damage to your package if at all possible. We apologize for any inconvenience.


Can I provide special shipping instructions for my order?

Yes, you can! When you go to your shopping cart, there is a checkmark labeled, "Leave a gift note or special shipping instructions". When you check this box, a text box will appear where you can type a gift note or shipping instructions. Please see the screenshot below for reference.


Click image to zoom in.

Are your plastic bags BPA-free?

Yes, all plastic bags that we use containing food are BPA-free.

Can you send me a physical gift card?

No, we unfortunately cannot. We only offer physical gift cards at our retail stores. If you would like to give an online gift card as a physical gift to someone, we recommend printing the card out and putting it in a traditional greeting card.

Can I transfer my retail gift card for online use and vice-versa?

Yes, absolutely. In order to transfer your gift card, please contact us via phone, email, or chat.


I purchased a digital gift card and it was never sent to my email. What do I do?

First, if you have access to your order information, make sure that you entered the correct email at checkout. If you cannot access this info or know that you entered the wrong email address, please contact us right away so that we can resend your gift card.


How do I check my gift card's balance?

In order to check your gift card's balance, please contact us.


Do you offer curbside pickup?

Yes! All five of our retail locations offer curbside pickup. To place an order for curbside pickup, simply select the retail location you'd like to order from, choose the meals you'd like, then check the "Request Curbside Pickup" box in your shopping cart or at checkout.

Once you arrive to the store at your pre-selected time, give the store a call and they'll bring your order out to you. If you do not know the phone number for the store you're picking up at, please call 484-474-0451.


Do you accept EBT payment?

Unfortunately, we are only able to accept EBT at our Brookhaven retail location. We are unable to process EBT payment on our online store or any other retail locations.

Can I redeem a coupon when I place an order for pickup?

Yes, provided that the coupon does not indicate that it is invalid for use with retail/pickup orders. If you are placing an order on the phone or in-person, please let the retail associate who is assisting you know what the coupon code is and they can apply it for you.

I am interested in starting a fundraiser. How can I learn more?

Thank you for your interest in starting a fundraiser with us! To learn more and to request more information, please visit marketplacefundraising.com. To request more information, please click "Send Me More Info" and fill out the form. One of our representatives will reach out to you shortly after the form is filled out.


How do I place an order to support my fundraiser?

You are on the wrong website to place a fundraiser order and need to visit our partners at The Marketplace Fundraising.

To place an order that supports your organization's fundraiser, please follow the personalized link sent to you by the coordinator of your fundraiser. If you do not know/cannot find the personalized link, please reach out to us and we can provide it to you.

Any orders placed on this website cannot provide credit for a fundraiser!


Didn't find your answer?