15 Copycat Recipes That Will Make You Question Why Restaurants Even Exist

Tired of eating out? With 15 copycat recipes, you can bring your favorite restaurant meals right into your kitchen. These recipes are a smart pick for anyone looking to scale back on dining costs without sacrificing their love for great food. The best part? You get to whip up delicious dishes on your terms, whenever you want — a win for any home chef wanting to forget that restaurants exist.

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

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 Heather.

Bringing the popular Panda Express favorite to your kitchen is Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. It captures the perfect balance of sweet and creamy. It’s a luxury at home that’ll make you ponder over the need to order out. Enjoy the unique combination of textures and flavors!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

This copycat recipe takes you back to the classic American diner. Diner Style Salisbury Steak promises a savory comfort meal with rich gravy that’s just right for family dinners. Recreate the nostalgic feel of those cozy diner booths right at your dining table. Who needs to go out when you can serve this?
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

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 Heather.

Spice up dinner time with a sizzling favorite from Panda Express. This Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken nails the explosive flavors of chili and the crunch of peanuts, mimicking the restaurant’s famous dish. Prepare to dazzle the family with nothing but a few simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

Want a zingy kick of jalapenos? Creamy Jalapeno Dip puts them into a smooth, creamy dip that’s perfect for parties or a quiet night in. It’s just as good, if not, better than what you might order at your favorite restaurant. The effortless heat and creaminess will have everyone dipping non-stop.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Experience the rich and vodka-packed sauce of this classic pasta dish at home. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka offers a delicious escape into Italian cuisine without stepping out of your house. Impress guests or treat yourself any night of the week – it’s that flexible and sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

Turn your kitchen into a high-end cafe with this deliciously warm and comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s packed with tender chicken and soft gnocchi, swimming in a creamy broth. It’s just right for chilly evenings or when you need a little comfort food. With this recipe, who needs a trip to the cafe?
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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 Heather.

Perfect for a fancy dinner or an impressive party snack, these Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes will leave your guests questioning their loyalty to their favorite meal kits. They have delicate seasonings and are crowned with crunchy shallots. These might just be the star of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Save a trip to the deli with this hearty Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich packed with layers of smoky meats and melty cheese. It’s a bold meal that perfectly captures the essence of New York deli fare. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or any time you need a satisfying bite.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

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 Heather.

Recreate this beloved restaurant staple and bring a burst of hearty flavors to your dinner table. Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is marinated, grilled, and loaded with the richness of melted cheese. It’s great for a weekend BBQ or a special dinner. Skip the restaurant wait!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into a bowl of this rustic Pasta e Fagioli Soup that combines pasta with beans in a savory broth. It’s like bringing a little piece of Italy into your kitchen. Simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying, this soup makes for a perfect weeknight meal. Who said you need a passport to taste authentic Italian cuisine?
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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.

Enjoy bold flavors and hearty ingredients in this Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. It’s stuffed with meat, beans, and just the right spice kick to warm you up. It’s amazing for game day or any day that calls for a robust meal. Forget the steakhouse crowds and cozy up with this bold chili instead.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup in a white round bowl with small handles.
Zuppa Toscana Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Creamy and dreamy, Zuppa Toscana Soup is filled with crumbled and tender ingredients in a savory broth. It’s a simple way to whip up a restaurant-style soup without the fuss. It’s perfect for dipping some crusty bread and relaxing after a long day. Bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table anytime!
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak Loaded Tots

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Why settle for pizza delivery when you can make these Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak Loaded Tots? They’re crunchy, cheesy, and loaded with juicy steak – ideal for movie nights or casual hangouts. Stack them up for a snack that will draw everyone to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak 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.

Capture the vibrant flavors of street food with this creamy, cheesy Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup. Inspired by Panera Bread, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the taste of Mexican street corn in a warm soup form. It’s dynamic, flavorful, and super filling.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

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 Heather.

Serve the tastes of Little Italy to your dining table with this Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. It’s as hearty and flavorful as anything you’d order at Maggiano’s. Best for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish guarantees to please a crowd. Skip the reservation!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Leave a Comment