Top 10 List

The U.S. military’s Meals, Ready-to-Eat have undergone several changes since they were adopted as the combat ration in 1975 by the Department of Defense, but one arguable question remains. Which one is the best?

Marines magazine asked which MRE you look for come chow time and 11,389 people replied with their favorites – from the main meals to the goodies inside. Marines compiled a top ten list, to answer this age-old question.

Top 10 Meals, Ready-to-Eat

  1. Chili w/Macaroni - 1,222
  2. Beef Stew - 1,115
  3. Spaghetti w/Meat Sauce - 1,015
  4. Beef Enchiladas - 712
  5. Jambalaya - 689
  6. Chicken Tetrazzini - 674
  7. Chicken w/Salsa - 651
  8. Cheese Tortellini 648
  9. Beef Ravioli - 625
  10. Chicken w/Noodles - 486

Rounding Out the Survey:

  1. Beef Steak w/Mushroom Gravy - 479
  2. Chicken w/Cavetelli - 394
  3. Chicken Breast 384
  4. Beef Patty - 382
  5. Meatloaf w/Gravy - 357
  6. Cajun Rice & Sausage - 270
  7. Pork Rib - 255
  8. Pasta w/Vegetables - 226
  9. Chicken Fajitas - 221
  10. Roast Beef w/Vegetables - 208
  11. Veggie Burger w/BBQ Sauce - 159
  12. Manicotti w/Vegetables - 118
  13. Sloppy Joe Filling - 64
  14. Cheese & Vegetable Omelet - 35
The MRE voted the best; Chili w/Macaroni
    Chili w/Macaroni MRE XXV Menu:
  1. Chili w/Macaroni
  2. Cookie
  3. Jalapeno Cheese Spread
  4. Wheat Snack Bread
  5. Candy III - Cinnamon Candies, Fruit Flavored Disks
  6. Cocoa Beverage Powder
  7. Red Pepper
  8. Accessory Packet A - Coffee, Sugar, Creamer, Salt, Chewing Gum, Matches, Toilet Tissue, Hand Cleaner
  9. Spoon
  10. Flameless heater
    MRE Info:
  1. Calories: 3,000 per unit
  2. Amount per case: 12 units
  3. Cost per case: $40-$60
  4. Weight per case: 20-25 lbs.
  5. Shelf life: varies per storage temperature