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21 Copycat Eats That Bring the Big Flavor Without the Takeout Box and Always Taste Like the Better Deal

Craving your go-to takeout but not the price tag? You’re not alone. These 21 recipes are all about recreating those crowd-favorite meals at home with a punch of flavor that hits just as hard as the originals, maybe even harder. Cozy up, because your new favorite “takeout” spot is coming straight out of your own oven or stovetop.

A hand dips a waffle fry into a small white ramekin of creamy dipping sauce, with more fries visible in the background.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Known for their crispy and golden exterior, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots combine fluffy potato bites with melted cheddar cheese and smoky bacon pieces in every layer. Each tot is baked to perfection, ensuring a well-balanced bite of textures. Whether it’s served as a snack or a side dish, this recipe adds a lovely twist to any mealtime. Plus, the flavor pairing of cheese and bacon ensures there’s a hearty richness in every tot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

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 fans can appreciate the homestyle nature of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins, which showcase pulled chicken and soft, pillowy dumplins in a creamy, flavorful broth. This recipe brings a taste of traditional Southern cooking to the table. Each bite balances the richness of the broth with tender dumplins that soak up every flavor. It’s a time-tested dish that feels wholesome and nourishing while sticking close to its restaurant inspiration.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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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.

Blending the sweetness of honey glaze with the crunch of candied walnuts, Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp delivers a balanced mix of textures, all coated in a creamy sauce. The large shrimp are lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, amplifying their natural flavor. The nuts add a delicate crunch, while the sauce ties everything together with just the right level of sweetness. It’s a crowd favorite that captures the essence of this takeout classic.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Loaded with seasoned steak and melting cheese, Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots offer a hearty, flavorful option for cheese lovers. Tender bites of steak are mixed with pieces of potato and covered in generous layers of cheese. The tasty blend of flavors mimics a cheesesteak sandwich, but with a twist brought by crispy tater tots. Whether served as a fun appetizer or meal, it has a comforting appeal for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

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.

Featuring rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy, tomato-based vodka sauce, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka hits all the right notes in rich flavor. The sauce combines subtle hints of vodka with a touch of cream and shredded Parmesan cheese to create an Italian classic. Perfectly cooked pasta ensures every bite is coated in the flavorful sauce for a pleasurable meal. A fresh garnish of parsley or extra cheese boosts the overall dish into a well-rounded plate.
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.

Perfect for dipping chips or drizzling over tacos, Creamy Jalapeno Dip offers a mild kick with a velvety texture designed to complement snacks or meals. The creamy base balances out the heat of the jalapeños, ensuring just the right amount of spice. Whether paired with vegetables, tortilla chips, or other dishes, it’s an easy way to bring added flavor to the table. Its versatility allows it to work in casual gatherings or just as a fridge staple for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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.

Combining crispy exteriors with tender pork fillings, Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes make for bite-sized flavor bombs worth trying. Each bite includes a blend of seasoned pork and shallots, shaped into patties and fried until golden. The recipe is easy to pair with dipping sauces, adding an additional layer of flavor to the dish. It’s a fun and impressive way to include delicious snack items in any meal plan or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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.

Packed with seasoned ground beef, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is a simple yet rich recipe that doesn’t need many extra toppings to be enjoyed. Known for its crumbled beef filling, it pairs perfectly with soft sandwich buns. Unlike traditional burgers, the meat is loose and full of seasoning, creating a texture that soaks up added condiments wonderfully. It’s a straightforward meal that’s perfect for casual dining.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

A bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup.
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Both hearty and filling, Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup melds beans, ground meat, pasta, and fresh vegetables into one delicious bowl. Each ingredient plays a specific role, ensuring a balance between protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The robust tomato base ties the dish together, incorporating a slightly tangy note into the recipe. It works as a standalone meal or as a great starter before Italian-inspired mains.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup

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.

Known for its tender sliced beef and dipping jus, Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich is no less than classic perfection served on a roll. The thin layers of beef are stacked high, offering plenty of rich flavor with every bite. Served with its signature au jus, the sandwich leans into the perfect combination of soft bread and flavorful, seasoned meat. It’s an ideal meal option whenever you’re looking for something rich and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

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.

Offering a retro-classic meal, Diner Style Salisbury Steak combines seasoned ground beef patties with a thick, flavorful gravy and a side of mashed potatoes or rice. The patties are pan-seared before being smothered in the hearty sauce, locking in moisture throughout. Soaked in the flavorful gravy, each steak feels both filling and homemade, perfect for anyone who loves rich, comfort-food flavors. The dish embraces simplicity and wonderful seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Packed with bold seasonings, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos feature marinated chicken piled into soft tortillas alongside fresh toppings. Layers of flavor shine thanks to the blend of spices used in cooking juicy, tender chicken. Customizable with extras like a squeeze of lime or a dollop of guacamole, these tacos make a versatile meal option. It’s a fun recipe that brings restaurant flavors right into your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a white bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Simmered in a buttery, slightly sweet glaze, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are a vegetable side dish that complements almost any meal. Their natural sweetness gets gently enhanced without overpowering their core flavor. The recipe comes together quickly but delivers softness and flavor that closely resemble the beloved restaurant version. They’re easy to prepare yet bring a comforting, homestyle touch to your table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

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.

Offering hearty, creamy warmth, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup blends tender chunks of potato with a flavorful broth that’s thickened into a comforting meal. This recipe stands out for its ability to maintain richness while highlighting the natural potato flavor. Garnishes like grated cheese or a sprinkle of chives make customizable finishing touches. It’s a perfect partner for bread or can be enjoyed on its own.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

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.

Combining pasta, a creamy cheese-based sauce, and succulent shrimp, Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo creates a fantastic balance of flavors in every forkful. The Alfredo sauce is smooth and rich, evenly coating both the pasta and shrimp for what feels like a luxurious meal. Perfect seasoning and cooking techniques ensure the shrimp retain their natural flavor and tenderness. It also lends itself beautifully to a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Layers of tender grilled chicken, seasoned rice, and an assortment of toppings make Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl a filling homemade option for nights in. The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and your choice of extras enhances its ability to feel both customizable and wholesome. It brings a sense of variety to each spoonful thanks to multiple textures and flavors being mixed in. For anyone craving something beyond a taco or burrito, this recipe stands out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

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.

Featuring Italian sausage cooked alongside sweet peppers and onions, Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers enhances simple, bold ingredients. The sausage is juicy and carries spices that pair perfectly with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. Together, the dish encapsulates hearty Italian classics, ready for serving on its own or paired with a crusty loaf of bread. It’s both convenient and delicious for those who enjoy unfussy, flavorful dishes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

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.

Showcasing chicken breasts topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and honey mustard sauce, Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken integrates spicy and slightly sweet elements wonderfully. Each piece of chicken is juicy and well-marinated, creating a flavorful base for rich toppings. The addition of sautéed mushrooms boosts the texture while complementing the cheese and bacon layers. Altogether, it makes for a standout dish worthy of a place in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna

A skillet lasagna topped with melted cheese, a dollop of ricotta, and fresh basil.
Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Inspired by the classic boxed meal, Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna simplifies the lasagna-making process into one-pot preparation. Ground beef, tomato sauce, pasta, and cheese come together in a way that’s both quick and delicious. The dish still preserves the hearty essence of lasagna while catering to those with less time for extended cooking. It’s perfect for quick, pleasurable meals that feel traditional while taking less effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna

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.

Filled with fresh vegetables, shredded chicken, and simple seasonings, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup resonates with the flavors of warm, Mediterranean-inspired recipes. The broth balances all the ingredients harmoniously, leaving space for the natural tastes to shine through. It’s easy to prepare, yet it feels robust enough to serve as the main course. Generous servings give this soup its hearty appeal, great for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

A hand dipping a tortilla chip into a tray of Copycat Applebee’s spinach artichoke dip.
Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creamy, cheesy goodness meets tender spinach and tangy artichokes in Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip, a go-to for gatherings or appetizers. The already balanced mix of textures and flavors allows for pairing with chips or bread without overpowering the palate. Baked until the top bubbles slightly, it offers just enough richness without venturing into heavy territory. It’s an appetizer that impresses for how easily it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Applebee’s Spinach-Artichoke Dip

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