15 Copycat Recipes That Don’t Require Hard-to-Find Ingredients

Ever dream of making your restaurant favorites but dread sourcing obscure ingredients? These 15 easy-to-replicate dishes will save you from that wild goose chase. No need for a scavenger hunt in international aisles or specialty stores. These recipes are all about simplicity and convenience. Enjoy homemade versions with stuff you likely already have at home.

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine a cozy evening made even better with a warm bowl of goodness from your favorite Italian restaurant. It offers rich textures and creamy flavors that can turn any ordinary night into a special one. The secret to its deliciousness involves using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. There’s something comforting about Chicken Gnocchi Soup that makes you come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You don’t need to visit a high-end restaurant to enjoy a plate of gourmet pasta. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka comes together with everyday pantry staples. Its creamy sauce and rich flavors provide a restaurant-quality experience at home. This recipe is both simple and rewarding, making it perfect for impressing guests. Spend less time worrying about fancy ingredients and more time enjoying a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you love savory dishes with a hint of spice, then this one’s for you. While takeout might feel convenient, making your own Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken at home can be equally delicious and quick. With just a little effort, you can settle any craving for your go-to takeout. Enjoy the familiar flavors that are easy to achieve at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving a hearty and comforting bowl of soup? Look no further. Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is perfect for those chilly evenings or anytime you need a bowl of comfort. Its robust flavors and creamy consistency bring warmth to any meal. The ingredients are basic, making it convenient to prepare without a special trip to the grocery store. Just a few steps and a little time, your kitchen will smell like your favorite deli.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Classic sandwiches are always a hit, especially when they are as easy to make as Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Imagine biting into a soft bun filled with seasoned meat, just like those diner favorites. Preparing this at home doesn’t require any exotic ingredients. It’s simplicity at its best, providing a quick and delicious meal option. You can enjoy this any night of the week without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cheese, steak, and tots – what’s not to love? Recreate the popular Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots, and you’ll see it’s as delicious as the original. The combination of ingredients you likely have on hand results in a snack or side dish that’s perfect for game day or any casual gathering. It’s easy to put together and incredibly delicious. Plus, making these at home ensures they’re always fresh and hot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A white plate with Salisbury steak topped with mushroom gravy on mashed potatoes, accompanied by a side of green peas.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate a classic comfort food right at home with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This dish is hearty and flavorful, perfect for those evenings when you need something filling yet straightforward. Using common ingredients, it brings the nostalgic vibes of a diner straight to your dining room. The savory sauce and tender meat make it a family favorite. No need for unusual or pricey ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re in the mood for a mix of sweet and savory, then give Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken a try. This popular dish can be made with items you probably have in your pantry and fridge. The combination of flavors makes it a standout, and it’s simpler than you might think to put together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it feels like a special occasion meal. Easy to prep and cook, it’s a reliable recipe that doesn’t need any fancy ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Creamy Jalapeno Dip in a bowl with chip nearby.
Creamy Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Preparing an appetizer that stands out doesn’t have to be complicated. Creamy Jalapeno Dip uses basic items to create a delicious snack that’s perfect for parties or lazy afternoons. It’s got just the right amount of spice without needing hard-to-find ingredients. This dip comes together quickly and adds a burst of flavor to your appetizer spread. You’ll find yourself making this one over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

An open-face NY Steamer sub copycat on a plate with Italian dressing.
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sandwiches don’t have to be boring when you’ve got a recipe like Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich at your fingertips. This sandwich is loaded with flavors reminiscent of your favorite deli but easy enough to make at home. Skip the lines and recreate this flavorful sandwich in your own kitchen. It’s a perfect option for lunch or a quick dinner. Saves time and delivers fantastic taste.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Seafood lovers will appreciate how easy it is to make Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp at home. This dish combines sweet and savory elements in a way that’s both delicious and uncomplicated. No need for specialty ingredients; this recipe brings all the flavors you love with minimal effort. Perfect for those nights when you want something slightly exotic without leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want to enjoy a slightly upscale meal without the complexity, try making Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. These crispy bites are straightforward to prepare using simple ingredients. They pack a lot of flavors and are great as a main course or even as an appetizer for a party. You don’t need anything fancy to get that gourmet feel at home. A versatile recipe that’s sure to please a crowd or just your family.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fancy a plate of tender beef without the hassle of going out? Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips offers the same plate-pleasing experience right at home. This dish is all about comfort, using basic ingredients to create something that’s both hearty and delicious. Making this at home lets you control the flavors and make it as rich or as simple as you like. Great for a cozy evening in or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

A roast beef sandwich with melted cheese on a hoagie roll, accompanied by crinkle-cut fries and a bowl of brown dipping sauce on the side.
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

French dip sandwiches don’t have to be reserved for restaurants. Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich brings all the flavors you crave into your own kitchen, using ingredients you already have. This sandwich is all about tender meat, flavorful broth, and a delicious crunch. It’s perfect for a filling lunch or an easy dinner, making it a versatile option for any day. No need to seek out special ingredients to enjoy this classic.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Now you can enjoy a restaurant-quality pasta dish without leaving home with Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Creamy, flavorful, and simple to make, it uses everyday ingredients to achieve that rich taste. Perfect for a special dinner but easy enough to make any night of the week. Impress your family or guests with this effortless recipe. A foolproof way to enjoy comfort food without the takeaway cost.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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