Faux Food, Real Flavor – 13 Copycat Recipes That Outshine the Originals

Feeling crafty in the kitchen? Each recipe in Faux Food, Real Flavor brings a popular dish into your home with all the taste you’ve been dreaming of. Perfect for gathering friends or treating yourself, these dishes turn any meal into a mini-event. No more guessing what’s in your favorite restaurant food or worrying about hidden extras. Instead, take control with recipes that invite you to mix things up while nailing the classic flavors you love. Made with simple steps, they’re great for kitchen novices and seasoned cooks.

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.

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.

Experience a blend of sweet and spicy with Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. This dish features crispy tempura shrimp coated in a rich honey sauce and garnished with candied walnuts. This homemade version offers a fresher take on the iconic dish, maintaining its signature crunch. The sauce balances sweetness and tang, harmonizing well with the crisp texture of the shrimp. Perfect for those who crave Chinese-American cuisine with a sweet twist.
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 Six.

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes are a crispy delight, offering a fulfilling crunch with every bite. These croquettes are made with ground pork and shallots and bring together tasty flavors in a convenient bite-sized form. The golden-brown exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, seasoned filling. They are easy to make and ideal for appetizers or as a main course. Enjoy the balance of crispiness and flavorful filling for a memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Enjoy a spicier twist with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This dish combines marinated chicken, bell peppers, and peanuts in a spicy-sweet sauce. The homemade version enhances the fresh flavors of the ingredients, minimizing the greasiness of the original. Ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat, it’s a go-to for a quick, delicious dinner. What makes it special is the balance of spicy, sweet, and spicy notes that dance together seamlessly.
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.

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka offers a rich, creamy pasta experience that delights with each bite. This dish features rigatoni pasta covered in a tomato-cream vodka sauce, complemented by hints of garlic and crushed red pepper. The homemade rendition brings out the fresh flavors and avoids the usual heaviness. Perfect for a comforting meal, it’s a weeknight favorite that feels special. Enjoy the creamy texture and bold flavors blended to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

Warm up with Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup, a hearty dish packed with flavor. This soup includes tender chicken, vegetables, and ditalini pasta simmered in a fragrant broth. The homemade recipe captures the essence of rustic, Italian comfort food, providing a nourishing meal. It’s ideal for cold days or when you need something soothing. It’s a family favorite that’s simple to prepare yet rich in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips offer a mouth-watering, tasty experience that pairs well with any side dish. These tender and flavorful beef tips are cooked with mushrooms and onions in a rich gravy. The homemade version enhances the delicious essence without overwhelming the palate. Perfect for those who enjoy hearty, filling meals, serve over mashed potatoes or rice for an unforgettable dinner.
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.

Enjoy the classic Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich, featuring tender roast beef and a flavorful au jus. This recipe brings together slices of juicy roast beef in a fresh baguette, which is ideal for dipping. The au jus is rich and delicious, perfectly complementing the sandwich. It’s a hit with beef lovers and great for lunch or an easy dinner. The homemade version promises a fresher, meatier bite each time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Relish a comforting bowl of Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup, known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This soup combines tender potatoes with a creamy base flavored with bacon and cheddar cheese. The homemade version is fresher and more flavorful than the original. It is ideal for cozy evenings or as a starter. Enjoy the heartwarming touch with every spoonful, making it a household favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato 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.

Spice up your meals with Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe, a robust dish full of rich flavors and textures. This chili features ground beef, beans, and a mix of spices for a spicy kick. The homemade version brings a fresher and more balanced taste, avoiding the overly salty notes often found in restaurant dishes. Perfect for game days or family dinners. Serve with cornbread or over nachos for an all-American treat.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Try the unique Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich, a flavorful, crumbly beef sandwich on a soft bun. This dish recreates the iconic loose meat filling, seasoned just right and served hot. The homemade version avoids the greasiness, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. It is ideal for quick and easy meals. Add pickles and mustard to enhance this Midwestern classic.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat 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.

Delight in a Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup bowl, blending sweet corn with Mexican spices and a creamy base. This soup features roasted corn, spices, and a touch of lime for a bright, flavorful experience. The homemade version delivers fresher, more vibrant flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or as a starter, it offers dynamic flavors in every spoonful, making it a go-to for soup enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Mexican Street Corn Soup

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.

Relish the hearty, bold Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers, a dish that combines Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions. The homemade version retains the dish’s rich flavors while offering a fresher taste. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s both simple and delicious. Serve it with pasta or on a hoagie bun for a versatile meal. Enjoy the robust and well-balanced flavors, reminiscent of Italian home cooking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

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.

Indulge in the creamy and delectable Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo, featuring succulent shrimp in a rich Alfredo sauce. The dish combines perfectly cooked shrimp with a creamy, tangy Alfredo sauce over pasta. The homemade version avoids the heaviness, providing a fresher and more balanced flavor. Ideal for those who enjoy seafood and creamy pasta dishes. This meal is perfect for special dinners or a comforting weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Leave a Comment