13 Takeout Imposters That Will Fool Even The Delivery Guy

Making your own takeout-style dishes at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with recipes that are so good they could fool the delivery person. These 13 takeout imposters offer a chance to recreate the joy of your favorite meals in your own kitchen. From the comfort of your home, you can whip up dishes that not only save you a trip but also allow you to control the quality of ingredients and the cooking process.

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

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.

If you’re craving a hearty sandwich that brings a classic New York deli to your doorstep, Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich will hit the spot. It’s packed with all the robustness and heartiness you’d expect from a traditional New York deli offering. Ideal for a filling lunch or a fulfilling dinner, you won’t believe you made it at home.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Copycat Animal Sauce

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

Bringing a bit of iconic fast food magic home is easier than you might think, especially with Copycat Animal Sauce. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Next time you’re hosting a party, whip this up to impress your guests with familiar yet freshly homemade touches.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Animal Sauce

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.

Nothing says comfort like a bowl of Chicken and Dumplins, especially when it echoes the beloved Cracker Barrel classic. Serve this at your next family dinner, and watch it become a new favorite. It’s as close to the restaurant’s recipe as you can get without stepping out your door.
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.

For those who love a good chili that’s robust and packed with flavor, this Texas Roadhouse Chili inspired version will not disappoint. It’s great for game day or as a warming meal on a cold day. Serve it up at your next casual gathering, and it will surely be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Burrito Sauce

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

Add some excitement to your homemade burritos with this wonderfully smooth and creamy Burrito Sauce. It blends seamlessly with various fillings, enhancing each bite without overpowering it. Perfect for a family taco night or a burrito bar, it brings a familiar yet homemade touch to the table.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Sauce

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.

Experience the bold and spicy flavors of Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken right from your own kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Serve it over a bed of steaming rice for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. With this recipe, you can recreate a popular favorite with ease.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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

Warm up with a bowl of this rich and hearty soup that is a meal in itself. Pasta e Fagioli Soup is perfect for those evenings when you need both warmth and nourishment, it offers a comforting embrace in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple dinner solution, this soup stands ready to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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.

Sweet and tender, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are a fantastic side dish that complements any meal. They bring a touch of sweetness to the table, enhancing the overall dining experience. Serve them alongside your main course for a balanced and colorful addition to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Chicken Stir Fry

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

If you’re aiming for a quick yet thoroughly enjoyable meal, Chicken Stir Fry brings the same quality and taste you’d find at your favorite Asian restaurant. Ordering this as takeout could easily fool anyone into thinking it just arrived from a local eatery. It’s an excellent way to enjoy restaurant-quality food from the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

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.

Bringing the essence of sweet and crispy shrimp right to your dining table, this dish replicates a popular fast-food favorite. Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is perfect for those who love a hint of luxury without stepping out the door, it could easily pass as a dish delivered from your nearest Panda Express.
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 Heather.

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes capture the essence of a home-cooked meal with a gourmet twist, mimicking a popular meal kit favorite. Ideal for an evening where comfort food is on the agenda, it’s hard to believe it’s not professionally prepared. It’s a creative take on traditional flavors, perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Experience the warmth and richness of Italian cuisine with this takeout impostor that nails the creamy and smooth texture of a classic pasta dish. Mid-conversation, one might just think they’re dining in an Italian bistro rather than at their own table. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is a clever way to enjoy a sophisticated meal without the fuss of upscale dining.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

For those who appreciate a bit of kick in their dip, Creamy Jalapeno Dip offers just the right balance of spice and smoothness. It’s a hit at any gathering, making it seem like it’s sourced from your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant. Ideal for pairing with everything from crunchy chips to fresh veggies, it’s versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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