The Lazy Chef’s Guide: 15 Copycat Recipes You Can’t Ruin, No Matter How Hard You Try

Cooking doesn’t have to be hard and this guide proves it. With straightforward instructions, even the most disaster-prone cook can whip up mouth-watering meals. These recipes are nearly impossible to mess up, so the pressure is off. They’re quick to make and easy to follow, making them great for busy folks. Enjoy restaurant-style food right from your kitchen with minimal effort.

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.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

Warm up with a simple, comforting meal that’s perfect for any night. You won’t have to worry about any complex steps or techniques here. Just throw everything into a pot and let it work its magic. Halfway through, you’ll recognize this as the famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup from your favorite Italian spot. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with hearty and satisfying bites every time. This is one soup you’ll return to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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.

This homestyle comfort food brings joy with each bite. Its creamy, rich taste will remind you of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. With straightforward steps and no fuss, there’s no way to mess it up. Just follow along and enjoy a bowl of Southern goodness. Perfect for lazy chefs, it guarantees the same flavors without the hassle. It’s all about easy pleasures here.
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.

Enjoy a side dish that’s both sweet and savory without any tricky steps. Midway through making these, you’ll recognize them as Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. They’re sticky, tender, and need minimal effort to make. Great for pairing with any main course, they’re a no-brainer addition to any meal. You won’t believe how simple they are to whip up. Perfect for anyone who wants a quick, delicious side.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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.

Craving something with a hint of sweetness? Think of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp for an easy to manage, impressive dish. It doesn’t take expert knowledge to get this right. Minimal effort leads to maximum taste. A classic takeout favorite you can now make at home. Simple, flavorful, and well within any lazy chef’s capabilities.
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.

Want to spice things up with ease? Look no further than Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. It’s all about bringing that familiar heat without any guesswork. Prepping this dish is straightforward and guarantees great results. You’ll love how seamlessly it comes together. Great for lazy chefs wanting a homemade takeout experience.
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.

Let’s enjoy an Italian classic without the hassle. Imagine serving Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka with minimal steps involved. It’s creamy, hearty, and incredibly easy to pull off. Just follow along, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta dish. Suitable for those who want something fancy without too much work. Perfect for a simple yet delicious dinner.
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.

For something crispy and savory, try out these amazing croquettes. Halfway through, and you’ve mastered Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft inside. No need for stressful steps or complex ingredients. You’ll love how straightforward it is. Great for anyone who wants a bistro-style dish without the extra effort.
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.

Think cozy diner vibes at home with minimal effort. This comforting meal will remind you of Diner Style Salisbury Steak. It’s packed with hearty flavors and very simple to prepare. Just follow the steps and enjoy a nostalgic dinner. Perfect for any night you want something quick and satisfying. An easy win for any lazy chef.
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.

Want something savory and indulgent without fuss? Try making Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It combines simple steps with ingredients you likely have on hand. Every bite is packed with flavors that are hard to mess up. Suitable for any lazy chef wanting a hearty meal without the stress. Enjoy it with a side dish for a complete dinner.
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.

Kick things up with this easy-to-make dip. Halfway through making it, you’ll realize it’s a lot like Creamy Jalapeno Dip from your favorite restaurant. No fuss, just blend a few ingredients and you’re done. It’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer at gatherings. Simple, no-stress prep makes it a lazy chef’s dream. Great for a quick flavor boost.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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.

Longing for a hearty sandwich? Recreate a classic with the Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. This one’s loaded with flavors but doesn’t require a lot of steps to get right. Ideal for lunch or a quick dinner. It satisfies without requiring much effort. You’ll keep coming back to this one.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

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 Six.

For something fun and indulgent, think of these loaded tots. They mimic the beloved Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Perfect for a snack or even a meal, they’re simple to put together. Just follow the basic steps, and you’re in for a treat. They’re cheesy, meaty, and go from zero to delicious with minimal effort. Great for a lazy chef’s lineup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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

Craving something hearty without work? Try making Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. These are loaded with flavor and come together quickly. Follow the steps, and you get a mouth-watering meal in no time. Ideal for any night when you want something comforting. Easy and delicious for a lazy chef.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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 Six.

Imagine creating a sandwich that’s melt-in-your-mouth good. Halfway through making it, you’ll recognize it as Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Juicy, tender, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Simple steps, yet it tastes like a lot more effort went into it. Perfectly tailored for those who want a good sandwich without the hassle. An easy win for any lazy cook.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

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.

How about a rich, creamy pasta dish? You can’t go wrong with a Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. This one’s all about ease and flavor. Follow the basic steps and enjoy a delightful meal. Great for any lazy chef wanting restaurant-quality without the effort. An easy way to impress at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

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