13 Copycat Recipes: Why Pay For The Restaurant Version?

Why spend a fortune eating out when you can make the same dishes at home? These 13 copycat recipes let you enjoy your favorite meals without leaving the house. It’s like having a restaurant in your kitchen but without the waitstaff and the check at the end. It’s time to get cooking and keep those extra dollars in your pocket.

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 Six.

Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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

Sometimes, nothing beats a comforting bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup. It brings the taste of a traditional Italian home, perfect for chilly days or when you want something filling. Making it yourself allows for big batches that stay fresh for days. Save on restaurant costs while indulging in hearty goodness.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli 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 Six.

When you want something a bit different, Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes offer a delicious alternative. These crispy bites are just like those meal kit favorites. Easy to prepare and just as delicious, you won’t miss dining out. Impress guests or enjoy solo without the hefty price with this one.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

For a cozy, homey dinner option, Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings warmth and comfort. The rich, creamy soup is packed with flavors that remind you of your favorite Italian bistro. Making this at home means seconds are readily available without the cost. Step up your soup game effortlessly when you cook this.
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.

Want to capture the sweet and delicious experience this dish offers? It’s surprisingly simple to make at home, skipping a trip to Panda Express. With this Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe, you can treat yourself without the extra expense. Plus, it’s always fresh from your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Feeling like classic comfort food tonight? Diner Style Salisbury Steak gives you the taste of a high-quality diner meal from your own kitchen. The hearty steak paired with the rich gravy is great for any meal. Your wallet—and your family—will thank you for not going out.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

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.

Craving a snack that screams comfort? Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots gives you that and more. It’s everything you love about Domino’s, but in your own kitchen. This is a great option for game nights or casual gatherings without the delivery fee.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

Hosting a party or a small gathering? Creamy Jalapeno Dip offers an easy, crowd-pleasing snack that mimics restaurant versions. It’s just spicy enough to keep everyone coming back for more. Frugal and delicious, it’s a great appetizer that doesn’t need any takeout.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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.

Everyone loves the balance of flavors in Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. It’s a hit around dinner tables when you want something both spicy and fulfilling. Making it at home means you control just how spicy or sweet you want it. Enjoy the same taste without ever stepping into a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Zuppa Toscana Soup

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

Channeling the flavors of a beloved Tuscan soup, Zuppa Toscana Soup is a favorite. This delicious dish is easy to whip up without considering the restaurant menu. It’s ideal for dinner parties or an everyday meal. Enjoy all the classic components right at home.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana 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.

Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This classic pasta dish brings that creamy deliciousness to your home. Perfect for special dinners or everyday meals, it’s as easy as prepping a few ingredients. Skip the reservation and enjoy the same fantastic flavor without the cost.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

If you love the vibrant flavors at Panera, Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup will be a hit. With a nod to authentic street corn, it’s easy to create without stepping out. Perfectly seasoned and fresh, it’s great for lunches or light dinners. Enjoy it on your terms, any time.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

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.

Looking for a hearty lunch or dinner? This Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich delivers the robust, flavor-packed experience you’d expect from a top-notch deli. Enjoy it whenever you crave it without rushing to a sandwich shop. This is high-quality taste, made in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

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 Six.

This Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup recipe lets you recreate the beloved restaurant soup in your own pot. It’s hearty and flavorful, ideal for a hearty meal. Save yourself a trip and make a big batch that can last you days. Experience the same comforting taste at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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