15 Decadent Copycat Recipes That Won’t Let You Feel Guilty About Staying In

Staying in doesn’t mean compromising on mouth-watering meals. These 15 restaurant-inspired recipes bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen. Whether you’re into something light or hearty, each one offers something special. They make it easy to enjoy a great meal without stepping outside. Perfect for any night 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.

When mornings are brisk, there’s something comforting in a bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s not just warm but also rich, making it perfect for cozying up at home. You can replicate the one from your favorite restaurant with all its flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy something familiar without leaving your place. This soup is creamy, yet it doesn’t sit too heavy. Next time you’re home, try making it yourself.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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.

If you’re staying in, try making some Honey Walnut Shrimp similar to what you’d get at Panda Express. It’s sweet, crunchy, and has that touch of glaze you love. Perfect for a night when you crave your favorite takeout but want to stay in. You can get that same fantastic crunch without waiting in line. The balance of flavors is just right for an enjoyable evening. It turns a regular night into something special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Bring fun into your kitchen with Kung Pao Chicken that you usually get from Panda Express. It’s spicy, has a great crunch, and that signature sizzling sound. You won’t miss dining out once you taste this version at home. Make it when you want something with a kick. This dish transforms your space into a mini eatery you won’t want to leave. It’s perfect for a flavorful night in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Sometimes you want Italian flair but without going out. Rigatoni Alla Vodka is the perfect dish to prepare. It’s creamy, satisfying, and has a robust flavor that feels indulgent. Recreate it as if you were dining at Il Fornaio. Enjoy it with a simple salad or some garlic bread. Staying in never tasted so good.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

You can get a taste of gourmet at home with Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes similar to those from HelloFresh. They have a delightful crunch and a savory inside that makes you feel like you’re dining out. They’re easy to make and present as fancy, so it’s fun for special nights in. You won’t be missing out on restaurant-quality food. A nice switch from the usual meals you prepare. Give it a try for a fun twist to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Remind yourself of those classic diner days by making Salisbury Steak at home. When you crave that hearty, familiar taste, this one is a go-to. It’s juicy, packed with flavor, and drizzled with a savory sauce. Perfect for a night when you want comfort without fuss. Whip up some mashed potatoes and green beans to complete the scene. You won’t realize you never left home.
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.

Enjoy some savory delight at home with Alice Spring’s Chicken inspired by your favorite dining spot. It’s cheesy, has bits of bacon, and a flavorful honey mustard sauce. An easy way to turn any boring evening into something memorable. Grill or bake it, the choice is yours. Pair it with a side salad and steamed veggies for a wholesome meal. It brings the restaurant experience right to your dining table.
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.

Have a snack-filled evening with Creamy Jalapeno Dip. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice and creamy textures. It’s a great addition for game night or a chill evening with friends. Pair it with chips, veggies, or breadsticks, and watch it disappear quickly. Simple to make, this dip brings a zesty touch to any occasion. Staying in can be just as fun as going out.
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.

Create the experience of a big apple deli by making a Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich at home. It’s loaded with delicious layers that just work together perfectly. Everything a good sandwich should have, you won’t miss a bite. Ideal for a quick meal or a light dinner that feels hearty. The flavors are classic and comforting. Imagine skipping the lines and enjoying it at your own pace.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

A bowl of Texas roadhouse chili with jalapenos and beans.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You don’t need to go out to enjoy a hearty bowl of Texas Roadhouse Chili. It’s spicy, warming, and feels like a big hug in a bowl. This recipe makes evenings in feel more relaxed and special. Add some cornbread or simple crackers for that full comfort. It’s great for watching a game or a movie night. Dive into the fun of making it yourself.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You can make a meal that feels like home with Sausage & Peppers similar to Maggiano’s Little Italy. It’s hearty, with bursts of flavors that make each bite enjoyable. Perfect for when you want something filling and flavorful. Serve it alone or with some fresh crusty bread. It’s a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction it brings.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

A hand dipping a tortilla chip into a tray of Copycat Applebee’s spinach artichoke dip.
Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s no need for takeout once you’ve made Spinach-Artichoke Dip popular at Applebee’s. It’s creamy, has bits of spinach and artichoke, and feels like a party on a plate. Ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying solo with some bread or crackers. Prepare it in advance for a snack that’s ready when you are. Great for movie nights or casual evenings in. You’ll find yourself making this one often.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a fun finger food evening, try some Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots inspired by Domino’s. They’re cheesy, crisp, and have bits of bacon that everyone loves. Perfect for a weekend snack or party starter at home. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce. It’s a simple way to make the evening feel festive. Best enjoyed right out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican street style corn soup in a white bowl on a white plate.
Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform your meal with Mexican Street Corn Soup inspired by Panera Bread. It’s creamy with a touch of corn sweetness and spice, making it unique. Simple enough to make, yet special for those cozy evenings in. Enjoy it with some bread or on its own. Brings that café vibe straight to your kitchen. A refreshing take on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

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.

The elegance of Shrimp Alfredo from Olive Garden can now be enjoyed right at home. It’s creamy, rich, and has that touch of seafood you love. Serve it with some fresh breadsticks or a side salad. It turns any evening from ordinary to special. Why go out when you can enjoy such a dish at home? This becomes a dinner to remember.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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