15 Copycat Recipes That Will Save You A Fortune On Takeout

Why wait in line or pay for delivery fees when you can cook the same dishes more affordably at home? These recipes provide clear instructions and are perfect for any home cook looking to cut down on takeout expenses. Plus, preparing these meals can be a fun activity for friends and family to enjoy together.

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

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.

If you’ve enjoyed sweet and tender carrots at a popular family restaurant, recreating them at home can be both easy and economical. Making Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots at home not only cuts down on your dining out expenses but also allows you to control what goes into your meal. Plus, they’re just as good leftovers, giving you a versatile vegetable option throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

Fans of spicy appetizers can whip up Creamy Jalapeno Dip to enjoy a similar taste to what you might order at your favorite casual dining spot. By preparing this dip at home, you avoid the high cost of restaurant appetizers while still delivering a crowd-pleasing snack. You might find it so easy and delicious that it becomes your go-to recipe for parties and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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.

Recreate a popular fast-food chain’s Honey Walnut Shrimp at home and save a bundle on takeout. This dish pairs sweetness with a crunchy texture, making it a hit for both adults and kids. It’s ideal for those nights when you crave something a bit indulgent but don’t want to splurge at a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Sandwich enthusiasts can recreate Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich, known for its hearty fillings and robust flavor. Enjoying this sandwich at home not only saves you a trip to the sub shop but also costs much less per serving. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and packs well for meals on the go.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Bringing the comforting taste of a Southern-style dish into your kitchen is simpler than you might think. Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings are perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warm and filling. By making it yourself, you save on the expense of a sit-down meal out, and you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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.

Chili lovers can now recreate a robust version of Texas Roadhouse Chili from a popular steakhouse right in their own kitchens. It’s an ideal dish for feeding a crowd or just warming up after a cold day. Make a large pot to see you through multiple meals, offering both convenience and cost savings.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Close-up photo of rigatoni alla vodka.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Enjoying a rich, creamy pasta dish doesn’t require a reservation at an upscale Italian restaurant. Making Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka at home allows for a cozy, romantic dinner that’s much more budget-friendly. It’s also quick to prepare, making it a practical choice for a midweek dinner that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

For those who love a hearty, creamy soup, Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings the comfort of a favorite Italian restaurant into your home. It’s perfect for both soup season and any time you want a filling meal that soothes. Preparing it yourself means you can have a pot of soup ready for when family or friends need warming up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Animal Sauce

Copycat Animal Sauce in a bowl with fries around it.
Copycat Animal Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Burger and fries enthusiasts will appreciate having Animal Sauce on hand to add some excitement to homemade versions of fast food favorites. Making it at home is cost-effective, especially when compared to frequent fast-food trips. Plus, it adds a unique twist to even the simplest dishes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Animal Sauce

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

You can recreate a popular Asian-inspired dish right at home. Preparing Chicken Stir Fry yourself means controlling the quality of ingredients and tweaking it to suit your preferences. Eating in instead of ordering takeout saves money and can be healthier. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

If you enjoy hearty Italian meals, making your own Pasta e Fagioli Soup can be very rewarding. Not only is it cost-effective, but homemade versions are often fresher and can be adjusted to your dietary needs. It’s a great option for a comforting meal that fills you up without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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.

Bringing the distinct taste of Kung Pao Chicken to your kitchen allows you to enjoy it any time you crave it. You’ll save significantly by skipping the takeout and using everyday pantry items. You might even impress yourself with how close you can get to the original.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Burrito Sauce

A jar with a lime and cilantro next to it.
Burrito Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enhancing your homemade Mexican dishes with Burrito Saucee can completely change your meal experience. It’s simple to whip up a batch that could rival any restaurant’s offering. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to add some kick to their dishes.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Sauce

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

You can make a restaurant-quality dish at home with just a bit of effort. Not only is it cheaper, but it also allows for customizing portions and ingredient quality. Enjoying Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo at home means a luxurious meal without the high cost.
Get the Recipe: 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.

Recreate a gourmet meal with the ease of this popular Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. It’s an excellent way to indulge into home cooking without the fuss of meal planning. You’ll find making it at home can be more economical than ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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