17 Copycat Recipes So Good, You’ll Forget They’re Not the Original

If you love food that you can easily whip up at home and that matches your favorite restaurant dishes, these 17 recipes will blow your mind. Each meal is crafted to mirror some of the best dishes you know so well. It’s like having a touch of your favorite eatery right in your kitchen. Whether you’re making something for friends, family, or just yourself, these will keep everyone happy and asking for more.

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

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 Six.

Comfort food like cracker barrel chicken and dumplins is simple and brings warmth to any meal. Its hearty consistency and rich flavors come together to remind you of home-style cooking. Great for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. You’ll enjoy the homemade taste without the hassle of going out. Ideal for family gatherings when you want something wholesome. It really captures that authentic restaurant experience.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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 Six.

Baby carrots are more than just a side dish; they’re a burst of natural sweetness. Cooking them to the perfect tenderness without losing their crunch is key. Just like what you’d get at Cracker Barrel, they complement any main course effortlessly. They bring a hint of nostalgia to your dining table. Eating them will make you think you’re at your favorite eating spot. Kids will love them too!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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 Six.

Light yet satisfying, shrimp alfredo fits well into any meal plan. Creamy and savory, it has just the right balance of flavors. You won’t believe it’s not from Olive Garden. Pair it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread. Perfect for a romantic dinner at home or a special occasion. It tastes gourmet but without the hefty price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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.

For a touch of sweetness and crunch, honey walnut shrimp stands out. The combination of flavors feels indulgent and unique. You’ll feel like you’ve grabbed takeout from Panda Express without leaving home. It’s a nice change from your usual meals. Excellent for a different spin on a seafood dinner. Certainly, one to keep in your recipe rotation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

You can’t go wrong with Kung Pao Chicken when you’re craving something with a kick. The mix of flavors and textures hit the spot perfectly. Recreates Panda Express’s version with ease. Great for dinner any night of the week. Spice it up with your favorite hot sauce if you want extra heat. Easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Craving Italian? Rigatoni alla vodka is rich and flavorful, offering a nice balance of tangy and creamy. You might think you’ve ordered straight from Il Fornaio. It’s a comforting dish perfect for impressing guests. Best enjoyed with a glass of wine. Gives you a taste of authentic Italian cuisine right at home.
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 Six.

Pork croquettes bring crispiness outside and tender meat inside. They deliver that crunchy bite you crave while staying juicy and flavorful. Reminiscent of HelloFresh meals, these croquettes are a real treat. They feel special, yet are easy enough to make regularly. Perfect for a dinner party or a family meal. Sure to be a hit among all ages.
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 Six.

Nothing beats Salisbury steak when you want something hearty and satisfying. With a rich sauce and tender texture, it’s a diner classic brought to your table. Pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Great for a meal that pleases everyone. Takes you back to those comforting diner experiences. Truly timeless and filling.
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 Six.

Alice Spring’s chicken is a hit with its blend of flavors. Ideal for a hearty dinner, it’s loaded and satisfying. Popular in restaurants but easily recreated at home. Serve it with a side of veggies or a simple salad. Adds variety to your usual meal plan. It’s one you’ll make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

When you need a snack, jalapeno dip hits the mark. Creamy with a kick, it’s perfect for dipping chips or veggies. Great for parties or just a snack session on your own. You’ll find it hard to stop once you start. Reminds you of that favorite dip you had at your go-to spot. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

Chicken gnocchi soup is the ultimate combination of rich flavors and hearty textures. It warms you up and feels wholesome. Ideal for a cold day or when you need comfort. Provides the goodness of chicken with the softness of gnocchi. Takes you back to your favorite soup bowl. Always leaves you a bit more satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi 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.

Can’t go wrong with a NY steamer sandwich for lunch or dinner. Packed with flavors, it’s a taste of New York in every bite. Reminiscent of those hearty Firehouse subs. Easy to make but feels indulgent. Pair it with a simple side for a full meal. Brings a bit of the East Coast to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

An Italian classic, pasta e fagioli soup combines simple ingredients into something special. Light yet filling, it’s great for any meal. Mimics the goodness you’d find in Italian eateries. Complements a variety of salads and bread. Perfect for those who appreciate a homemade soup. It’s a staple that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Zuppa Toscana Soup

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

Ever popular, Zuppa Toscana soup blends savory and creamy in one dish. Ideal for those who love hearty soups. Perfect for lunch or dinner and even better the next day. Full-bodied and rich without being too heavy. Always reminds you of a warm Italian kitchen. You’ll almost forget you didn’t order it from a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup

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.

Take a trip to Mexico with Mexican street corn soup. This dish offers bold flavors, inspired by Panera Bread’s take on street food. Best paired with a light salad or some cornbread. It’s a unique twist that keeps meals exciting. Tons of flavor in every spoonful. You’ll keep coming back for it.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn 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.

Thick and robust, Texas Roadhouse Chili brings that kick you love. Perfect for game days or a cozy night in. Reminds you of those evenings at Texas Roadhouse. Spicy enough to be interesting but not overwhelming. Serve it with your favorite sides and toppings. It’s a meal that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

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 Six.

Italian flavors shine in sausage and peppers. Relive those amazing meals at Maggiano’s Little Italy without leaving home. Ideal for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests. Easy to prepare yet full of flavor. Brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table. Complete the meal with some crusty bread or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

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