Mealie is the project behind this setup. Use SQLite for a normal household unless the official documentation gives you a reason to choose PostgreSQL.
- Recommended method
- Docker Compose with SQLite
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Typical time
- 20–40 minutes
What you need
- A 64-bit Docker host
- Persistent local storage
- Five to ten recipe URLs for testing
- A backup location
Set it up
Choose the database
SQLite is suitable for many households. Use PostgreSQL for network-attached storage, heavier concurrency or features that require it.
Use the official Compose example
Create a Mealie folder, copy the current SQLite template and set the volume, timezone and base URL.
Disable open signup
Keep ALLOW_SIGNUP false until the administrator deliberately invites household members.
Start Mealie
Launch the container and change the default administrator credentials immediately.
docker compose up -dTest the complete household loop
Import recipes, add them to a meal plan and generate a shopping list before importing a large archive.
Reserved for launch
Verify it works
Do not call the setup finished until these small tests pass:
- A recipe imports and can be edited
- A second household user can access it
- Ingredients reach a shopping list
- An application backup downloads and restores
Protect the service
- Do not run SQLite from network-attached storage
- Keep registration invite-only
- Back up before every major update
- Read release notes before changing container versions
Official resources
Videos are supplemental. Use the official documentation for current commands, versions and security guidance.