Fake It ‘Til You Make It: 15 Copycat Recipes That Taste Just Like The Real Deal (But Cost Way Less)

It’s kind of cool when you think about it – being able to whip up your restaurant favorites right from your kitchen. These copycat recipes are game changers. They’re easy on your wallet, and honestly, who doesn’t love saving a bit of cash? Plus, there’s something satisfying about nailing the taste of that dish you crave without stepping foot outside. You also get to tweak it to be just how you like it!

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 Heather.

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.

Ever dreamed of bringing the Firehouse Subs experience to your kitchen? This Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich captures that same hearty flavor combo of brisket and classic condiments, all without the need to leave home. It’s a robust meal that satisfies those sandwich cravings. Plus, you’ll save a few bucks making this deli favorite yourself.
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.

Chili lovers, rejoice. This Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings the famous restaurant’s bold flavors right to your own pot. This chili packs a punch with its secret blend of spices and slow-cooked goodness. It is a perfect meal for chilly evenings or game-day gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If you’re in the mood for some comforting soup, this Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is your go-to. It’s a rich broth filled with tender chicken and is beautifully seasoned to match Carrabba’s signature offering. This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, promising an authentic Italian dining experience at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken 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 Heather.

Fancy a bit of Panda Express at home? This Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is a sweet and crispy treat that rivals the drive-thru favorite. This recipe achieves that perfect balance of honey glaze and crunchy walnuts, paired with succulent shrimp. It’s a luxurious treat for a fraction of the price.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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 Heather.

Who can resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of Applebee’s iconic appetizer? This Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip brings the restaurant’s beloved starter into your home kitchen. Dig into the rich combo of spinach and artichokes – it’s amazing for parties or a guilty pleasure snack.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

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 Heather.

Got a thing for loaded tots and Philly cheesesteaks? This Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots combines the best of both worlds. Think about crispy tots topped with tender steak and a luscious cheese sauce. It’s a creative twist that delivers big on flavor without the big spend, proving you don’t need to order out to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

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 Heather.

Craving Italian but thinking of your wallet? Step into the creamy, dreamy world of Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. This recipe nails the rich blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, tossing in shrimp for that restaurant-quality pasta at home. It’s an elegant dinner option that feels decadent.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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 Heather.

Missing that classic French dip sandwich but not the eat-out expense? This Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich brings that tender beef and melted cheese to your dining table. It replicates Cole’s melt-in-your-mouth experience, allowing you to enjoy a Los Angeles classic without stepping a foot outside.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

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.

For a touch of Italian-American just like Maggiano’s, try Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This recipe lets you have the spicy and savory flavors of perfectly cooked sausage paired with sweet bell peppers. It’s a simple dish that packs a punch, amazing for turning your kitchen into Little Italy for a night.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

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.

Spicy, savory, and just a tad sweet, this Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken is a stir-fry sensation. Recreate the excitement of Panda Express’s signature dish, complete with fiery chilies, crunchy peanuts, and succulent chicken pieces. It’s a balance of flavors that’s hard to beat, especially when you can make it for less.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal? Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips recipe is a must-try. It brings home the flavors of tender beef tips simmered in a savory gravy, just like the restaurant’s beloved dish. Served best over fluffy mashed potatoes or steaming rice, this dish is a filling dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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 Heather.

Want something rich and comforting? This Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is here to satisfy. This dish delivers that creamy, tomato-infused vodka sauce clinging to perfectly al dente rigatoni, just like the Italian favorite. It’s a luxurious pasta experience that doesn’t require a reservation and a posh price tag.
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 Heather.

Make a unique home dining experience with Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. This recipe takes you through creating juicy pork croquettes with a crispy shallot outer layer, offering a taste that’s both unique and deeply satisfying. It’s a fun way to shake up the dinner routine, bringing a HelloFresh favorite to life.
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 Heather.

There’s something about a Diner Style Salisbury Steak that feels like comfort food at its best. This copycat recipe captures that exact comforting essence, with tender beef patties swimming in a rich, savory gravy. It’s diner deliciousness that you can easily recreate, turning your dinner table into the best booth at the diner.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

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 Heather.

The Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal that replicates the famous Iowa diner classic. It’s all about seasoned ground beef on a warm bun, a straightforward but mouthwatering recipe. This sandwich is great for a quick, easy dinner that feels nostalgic and new all at once.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

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