Culinary Cloning 101: 17 Recipes That’ll Earn You A Ph.D. In Copycattery

Ever found yourself craving that special dish from your favorite restaurant but didn’t feel like going out? We’ve got you covered with 17 copycat recipes that’ll earn you a Ph.D in copycattery. No need for a fancy degree to whip up these look-alikes; just some good old-fashioned cooking fun. Think of it as culinary cloning! Isn’t it fun?

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

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

Swim head-first into a fiesta of flavors with Creamy Jalapeno Dip, where every scoop offers a zingy kick that’s just begging for a crunchy chip. Perfect for game nights or jazzing up your backyard BBQ, this dip will have your friends crowning you the spice royalty. Go ahead, give your palate something to celebrate.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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.

When the weather calls for cozy, nothing hits the spot quite like chili. Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings the zing of the steakhouse classic to your dining table, inviting your family to spoon up every last bit. Imagine the secret blend of spices and that simmered-all-day taste. That’s exactly what you’re mastering.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

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.

Think about twirling your fork into the creamy, dreamy pasta just like the one served at the beloved chain. With Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo, it’s all about bringing that Italian-American restaurant vibe to your own kitchen—minus the endless breadsticks, of course. Your pasta nights just got a whole lot saucier.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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.

Turn your kitchen into a gourmet meal kit experience with Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. It’s the convenience and creativity of the popular meal delivery service without a subscription. Master this, and you’ve got a go-to dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Bring the homestyle magic of a country store to your dining room with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, serving up that comforting blend of tender chicken and pillowy dumplings. It’s about capturing that Sunday dinner feel any day of the week, right in your own home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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.

This is sweet, it’s crunchy, and it’s a takeout favorite you can now DIY. Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is all about that delicate balance of textures and flavors that keep you reaching back into the takeout box—only this time, it’s your own serving dish. Surprise your guests with this popular chain’s recipe!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

It’s time to give veggies the limelight they deserve. Recreate a down-home side dish with Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. This simple yet flavorful dish could convince anyone to finish their vegetables with joy. Perfect for rounding out any meal with a sweet and savory touch that even the kids can’t resist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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.

Channel your inner Italian chef with a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This pasta doesn’t just say “dinner”—it’s a party in your mouth. It’s all about mastering that velvety sauce hugged by perfectly cooked rigatoni. Ready your forks; this is about to become a beloved staple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

Take on the bold flavors of a beloved Asian dish with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. It’s not just spicy—it’s a full-on dance of heat and umami that’s utterly addictive. Make this at home, and you’ll understand why this recipe has many fans. It’s your turn to stir the pot and create that buzz at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Step into the world of classic comfort food by mastering Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This is your chance to recreate those savory, melt-in-your-mouth moments that you thought only diners could serve up. This recipe is not just a meal, it’s a throwback to the good old days on a plate.
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 Heather.

Who needs a reservation at the Outback when you’ve got Copycat Alice Springs Chicken recipe at your fingertips? Get the same bold flavors and cheesy goodness without waiting for a table. This dish is about bringing a bit of that Aussie flair to your home menu and trust me, your family won’t want to share.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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.

Want a taste of Philly without the plane ticket? Try whipping up some Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesecake Loaded Tots right in your own kitchen. This indulgent recipe upgrades your snack game to levels that even your favorite pizza joint would envy. It’s comfort food with a twist that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

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.

Channel the charm of Italian-American family dining with Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. This one promises the warmth and savory satisfaction of a dish passed down through generations. Aromatic, hearty, and all sorts of delicious, it’ll have everyone convinced you’ve got Italian roots.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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

Calling all meat lovers to the table with a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips recipe offers chunks of beef that are tender, flavorful, and bathed in a rich gravy. Get ready for this to be the new go-to when you’re looking to impress with minimal effort. It’s a hearty nod to the steakhouse.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

Soup’s on, and it’s better than ever with Pasta e Fagioli Soup. This one’s like bringing the best of your favorite Italian eatery into your soup bowl. It’s a mix of beans, pasta, and veggies that comes together for a comforting, feel-good meal. Who said souvenirs can’t be edible? This dish is like a trip to Italy, minus the jet lag.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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.

Roll out the red carpet for the sandwich that’s all about indulgence— Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. It’s the messy, meaty, dip-worthy treat that’s bound to be the star of your lunch or dinner scene. Get your apron on and have your au jus at the ready; this is what sandwich legends are made of.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

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.

Serve a dash of gourmet street fare to your table with Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup. Think about the smoky, creamy flavors in a bowl, ready to warm you up from the inside out. It’s equal parts delicious and impressive, perfect for when you’re looking to shake up your soup routine.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

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