Shh… It’s A Secret: 13 Copycat Recipes That Taste Better Than The Original (And Cost Less)

Guess what? You can create those mouthwatering dishes from popular eateries right in your own kitchen, and here’s the kicker – they’ll taste even better and won’t cost you a fortune. We’ve got 13 recipes that are game-changers. This is your chance to shake things up in the kitchen, put your spin on classic dishes, and save some cash while you’re at it. Cooking at home just got a whole lot more exciting.

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

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.

Bring the punchy spices and bold flavors of Panda Express to your dinner table with this Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. It’s a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and nutty, all while keeping costs down. Skip the takeout line and whip up this crowd-pleaser tonight.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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 Heather.

Why order out when you can make your own decadent Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots? You get all that cheesy, bacony goodness without the delivery fee. Trust and believe, these tots have a knack for disappearing fast – they’re that good.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Craving comfort food? This Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins brings the comfort of the countryside to your kitchen. It’s a warm, filling meal that’ll satisfy the family and protect your budget. Ready to enjoy a cozy night in? Grab a bowl and dig in!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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.

Experience the flair of Italian dining with this Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers without leaving the house. It’s a lively combo of flavors that might just outshine the original. Plus, you’ll get a taste of Little Italy for much less dough. What’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

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.

Chicken dinner? Get ready for a homemade twist that might just fly right past the original. This Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and easy on the purse strings, it’s a meal that ticks all the boxes. Fire up the grill and get ready for a new go-to chicken recipe.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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.

Turn up the romance with a plate of rich and creamy Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka with a twist. It’s the kind of dish that impresses guests and keeps your budget in check. Light some candles and call it date night – you’ve got this. No stress in the kitchen needed.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

Sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive, this Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is a seafood lover’s dream. It’s a luxe-feeling dish without the high-end price, perfect for a special meal at home. Surprise your palate and your budget with this one. Even picky eaters will love it.
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 Heather.

Kitchen adventures await with these Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes, a favorite you can now make on your own. Your home will smell like a chef’s paradise, and your wallet will breathe a sigh of relief. Ready for some homemade luxury without the hefty price tag?
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Buttery, sweet, and a hit with kids and adults alike, these Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are a bright addition to any meal. Make a nutritious side without the upcharge of dining out. It’s simple, delicious, and a smart choice for your budget. Who knew this veggie can be this good?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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.

Dig into the creamy, cheesy world of this Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip, all from your own kitchen. It’s a beloved appetizer that’ll win over everyone, even when you’re saving on dining dollars. Get the chips ready; this dip doesn’t stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

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.

Enjoy a bowl of comfort with this Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup but with a personal touch. It’s a home-cooked soup that warms the soul without thinning the wallet. Wave hello to homemade goodness! This soup is about to soothe you.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

A plate of Copycat Roadhouse beef tips with gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with sliced mushrooms and chopped chives.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Taste the rich, hearty flavor of beef tips at home with this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. It’s a can’t-miss for meat lovers looking to replicate that restaurant taste with a lighter hit on the wallet. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to recreate this savory dish – no reservation is needed.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak 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 Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Take a bite of these Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots and you’ll forget you’re not at Domino’s. They’re loaded with all the right stuff – steak, cheese, and peppers – and they’re friendly on your budget. Make game days or any day special with this irresistible snack.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

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