It turns out our next dinner idea might just come from our latest binge-watch. A new study by HelloFresh UK and Paramount+ has revealed that a massive 63% of Brits have looked up recipes inspired by their favourite TV shows or films — proving that what we stream directly influences what we serve up in the kitchen.
Streaming Sparks Culinary Creativity
With streaming platforms dominating our downtime, the research found that series and films are more likely to inspire meal choices than social media or traditional print. Over half (55%) of people admitted that what they watch affects what they have for dinner, with social media (49%) and magazines and newspapers (31%) trailing behind.
From Mean Girls to SpongeBob SquarePants, nostalgia is proving to be a powerful flavour enhancer. More than half (56%) of participants say that rewatching childhood favourites encourages them to crave comfort food — a perfect pairing for cosy nights in.
A Menu Made for Movie Lovers
To celebrate this love affair between screens and suppers, HelloFresh UK and Paramount+ have launched an exclusive limited-time menu: “One Menu. A Mountain of Entertainment.”
The collaboration includes over 50 film and series-inspired recipes, featuring creative dishes like the SpongeBob SquarePants Krispy Katsu Burger, a MobLand Irish Beef Hot Pot, and the Mean Girls “On Wednesdays We Wear Pink” Risotto.
Perfect for those planning a Netflix-and-chill-style night — but make it Paramount+.
What We Watch Shapes What We Crave
When it comes to genres, nearly a third (32%) of Brits find travel shows most inspiring for food choices, closely followed by dramas (30%) and comedies (28%). And just in time for spooky season, 1 in 10 (11%) even said horror gives them food inspiration (brains, anyone?).
Generationally, Gen Z takes most of its food inspo from comedies (39%) and cartoons (31%), while Zillennials (25–34) lean toward reality TV (42%).
Psychologist Jo Hemmings explained:
“Humans are wired to respond to visual cues and emotional triggers; food is more than just taste and smell. What we crave in our meals is deeply linked to what we see on screen.”
Cosy Nights In Are Back
The research also uncovered a shift in dating habits — 39% of Brits now prefer to stay in, cook together, and stream their favourite shows over traditional nights out. In comparison, park walks (33%), cinema dates (32%), and cafes (28%) are taking a back seat.
Interestingly, when asked who they’d most like to share a meal with, SpongeBob SquarePants (16%) topped the list — beating The Godfather’s Michael Corleone (14%) and South Park’s Eric Cartman (8%).
A Celebration of Food and Film
Mimi Morley from HelloFresh UK summed it up:
“Food has always been about storytelling. Every recipe carries a sense of place, mood, or moment — and TV helps bring those emotions to life. That’s why we’re so excited to see what our customers think of this delicious menu inspired by great entertainment.”
Anna Priest, Senior Vice President at Paramount+ UK & Ireland, added:
“We’re thrilled to bring this first-of-its-kind collaboration to life. It’s a creative way to connect with people — pairing the stories we love with the meals we share.”
For a limited time only, customers can get three months of Paramount+ when they pay for and receive three HelloFresh boxes between 25 October 2025 and 19 December 2025.
Find out more at hellofresh.co.uk.
