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    Home / Roundups

    17 Copycat Recipes That Outdo the Takeout Menu

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Sep 14, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I love being able to bring my favorite restaurant flavors into my own kitchen, and that's exactly what these recipes do. They make it easy to enjoy the same meals you'd normally order out, but with the comfort of making them at home. Plus, it's a great way to save money while still getting food that feels like a treat.

    Chicken breasts in a skillet with lemon and parsley.Pin
    Olive Garden Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

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    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.Pin
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This comforting chicken dish is a family favorite that's simple to put together and works well for a weeknight dinner. It saves you the hassle of heading out when you want something hearty but homemade. The mix of chicken and broccoli makes it a balanced meal without much extra effort. It reheats well, so leftovers never go to waste. Making it at home is a great way to enjoy a dish that feels just as good, if not better, than eating out.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    Meatloaf on a white plate with a fork.Pin
    Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This meatloaf has the same homestyle feel you'd expect at a restaurant, but it's even better when made fresh in your own kitchen. It's a straightforward recipe that uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Perfect for a Sunday meal, it gives you that cozy, down-home flavor without waiting for a table. It pairs easily with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete dinner. Having this version at home makes the craving for takeout fade fast.
    Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

    McDonald's Mango Pineapple Smoothie

    A tall glass of yellow smoothie is placed on a light-colored stone board with a glass straw. Fresh mint leaves and a cloth napkin are next to it.Pin
    McDonald’s Mango Pineapple Smoothie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This smoothie blends up quickly and gives you that fruit-forward flavor you'd normally grab from the drive-thru. It's a refreshing option when you want something sweet without the trip. You can whip it up in minutes with just a blender, making it great for busy mornings. It works well as a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoying this at home proves you don't need to head out for something that tastes this fresh.
    Get the Recipe: McDonald's Mango Pineapple Smoothie

    Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat

    Slices of lemon loaf with icing on a white plate, with whole lemons in the background.Pin
    Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This loaf is soft, bright, and sweet, making it the perfect coffee companion. Baking it at home means you get that café-style treat without the cost or the line. It's a simple recipe that turns out well every time and keeps nicely for a few days. Great for brunch, snacks, or even dessert, it's versatile enough to enjoy any time. Once you've made it yourself, it's hard to go back to store-bought slices.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat

    Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

    Vanilla bean Frappuccino drinks on a wood cutting board.Pin
    Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This cool and creamy drink comes together quickly with just a few basic ingredients. It's an easy way to get the same café feel without leaving the house. Perfect for warm days, it doubles as a fun treat to whip up for kids or guests. Since you can make it on demand, it's always ready when the craving hits. Skipping the coffee shop for this at-home version is both convenient and rewarding.
    Get the Recipe: Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

    Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade

    Cherry limeade in tall glass with lime wedge garnish.Pin
    Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This drink is refreshing, fizzy, and comes together in minutes. It's a great option for summer gatherings or a simple afternoon cool-down. With just a few ingredients, you can easily recreate the same flavor you'd order from a drive-in. It looks fun in a glass with ice and lime slices, making it a hit for family or friends. Having it on hand at home makes skipping the drive-thru a no-brainer.
    Get the Recipe: Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade

    White Hot Chocolate

    Glass of creamy white dessert topped with white chocolate shavings. Red gingham cloth and a small bowl with more toppings are nearby on a white surface.Pin
    White Hot Chocolate. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This warm and creamy drink is perfect for cooler evenings when you want something sweet and cozy. It takes only a few minutes on the stove, which makes it an easy choice for last-minute comfort. You can top it with whipped cream or marshmallows to make it extra fun. It's a hit for both kids and adults, making it a great family treat. Once you try it at home, you'll forget about store-bought versions.
    Get the Recipe: White Hot Chocolate

    Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

    A sandwich with avocado, chicken and cheese on a plate.Pin
    Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This sandwich is packed with flavor and makes lunch or dinner feel like something special. It's easy to prepare and doesn't take much time, making it perfect for busy days. The combination of chicken and avocado creates a filling meal without being heavy. You can make one sandwich at a time, which is great if you don't want leftovers hanging around. Making it at home gives you the same satisfaction as takeout without the wait.
    Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

    Bang Bang Shrimp

    Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce.Pin
    Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This shrimp dish is quick to prepare and makes a great appetizer or light dinner. The bold flavor is the same kind you'd expect from a restaurant, but it's easy to enjoy in your own kitchen. It's perfect for serving with rice or as a starter for a bigger meal. Cooking it at home means you can adjust the spice level to your liking. Once you've made it, you won't miss ordering it out.
    Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

    Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon.Pin
    Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This hearty soup comes together in about 30 minutes and makes a filling meal for the whole family. It's creamy, comforting, and great for cooler days when you want something warm and satisfying. The gnocchi adds a nice change from the usual noodles or rice. It's a simple recipe that doesn't require much hands-on time. Having this at home makes going out for a similar bowl unnecessary.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    Starbucks Copycat Chai Syrup

    Chai syrup in glass jar on crochet lace fabric with star anise and wooden spoon in white geometric bowl.Pin
    Starbucks Copycat Chai Syrup. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

    This syrup lets you make spiced drinks at home whenever you want, saving you a trip to the café. It keeps well, so you can have it ready for both hot and iced drinks. Making it is straightforward, and you can control how strong or mild the flavor turns out. It's great for mixing into coffee, tea, or even baking. Once you've stocked your kitchen with this, store-bought chai won't be missed.
    Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat Chai Syrup

    Olive Garden Chicken Piccata

    Creamy chicken in a cast iron skillet with capers.Pin
    Olive Garden Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

    This dish is simple enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for company. The light sauce and chicken combination make it flavorful without being complicated. It pairs easily with pasta or rice for a complete dinner. You'll appreciate how quickly it comes together compared to dining out. Making it yourself means enjoying a restaurant-style dish right at your own table.
    Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Chicken Piccata

    Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

    Country fried steaks on a platter smothered in white gravy.Pin
    Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

    This hearty dish makes dinner feel like comfort food done right. It's simple to prepare and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or vegetables. You get the same familiar flavor you'd find in a restaurant without leaving the house. It's a filling option for nights when you want something special without a lot of fuss. Making it at home means you get the same comfort without waiting for takeout.
    Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

    Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

    Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it.Pin
    Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This mac and cheese is creamy, rich, and easy to put together. It works as both a main dish or a side, making it versatile for family meals. The recipe is simple enough to make on busy nights yet feels like a treat. It reheats well, so you can enjoy it more than once. Having this on the table makes running out for takeout mac and cheese unnecessary.
    Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

    Copycat Lawson's Chip Dip

    A picture of the best chip dip with potato chips on a tray.Pin
    Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

    This dip is quick to mix up and works perfectly with chips, veggies, or as a party snack. It's creamy and smooth, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. The ingredients are simple and come together in just minutes. It keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead for gatherings. Once you've made it yourself, you'll prefer it over the store-bought tubs.
    Get the Recipe: Copycat Lawson's Chip Dip

    Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

    A picture of Alice Springs chicken on white plate.Pin
    Copycat Alice Springs Chicken. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

    This chicken dish brings bold flavor to the table without being complicated to make. It's filling enough for dinner but easy enough for a weeknight meal. Pair it with vegetables or rice, and you have a complete plate. The recipe doesn't require special ingredients, which makes it practical to keep in rotation. Making it at home gives you the same experience as dining out without the extra expense.
    Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

    Iced White Chocolate Mocha

    Two glasses of iced white chocolate mocha, topped with whipped cream, are on a table next to striped straws.Pin
    Iced White Chocolate Mocha. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This drink comes together in minutes and makes you feel like you're sipping from a café. It's smooth, sweet, and refreshing, perfect for warm days or an afternoon pick-me-up. With only a few ingredients, it's simple to whip up whenever you want. You can adjust the strength or sweetness to match your own taste. Once you make it at home, skipping the coffee shop becomes an easy choice.
    Get the Recipe: Iced White Chocolate Mocha

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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