33 Copycat Recipes for When Takeout Is Getting Too Expensive

When restaurant bills start adding up, 33 copycat recipes make it easier to keep favorite meals in the mix. Familiar flavors can still be part of the plan without paying extra. I’ve noticed that making go-to dishes at home helps stretch the budget further. These ideas suit nights when convenience is important, but saving money comes first.

Two beef tacos on a plate, topped with sliced red onions, shredded cabbage, cilantro, and crumbled cheese, surrounded by lime wedges. — Savory Street Steak Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture. — Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Easy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing, this Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls recipe might be better than takeout. Brimming with cheesy goodness and well-seasoned, they’re quick to whip up for game days or family gatherings. These bites offer restaurant flavors without the high price tag!
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Fresh Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing. — Fresh Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This Fresh Copycat Big Mac Salad transforms a fast-food favorite into a wholesome, budget-friendly meal. With the same standout flavors you love in a Big Mac, it’s a creative way to enjoy the iconic burger without the bun. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is just as deeply fulfilling as the original!
Get the Recipe: Fresh Copycat Big Mac Salad

Perfect Sushi Rice

A bowl of steamed white rice topped with sliced green onions and sprinkled with sesame seeds. — Perfect Sushi Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Achieve that distinctive sushi experience right in your own kitchen with this Perfect Sushi Rice recipe. Light, sticky, and perfectly seasoned, it’s essential for homemade sushi rolls or bowls. Whether you’re hosting friends or making dinner for yourself, it guarantees great results on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Sushi Rice

Crispy Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce. — Crispy Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s how to make Chick-fil-A favorites at home! This Crispy Chick-fil-A Nuggets recipe captures the signature crunch and flavor we all know and love. Save some dollars while fulfilling those nugget cravings; reviewers say they’re spot-on replicas. Serve with your favorite sauces for the full experience!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Melty Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table. — Melty Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You don’t need a restaurant anymore to enjoy this Melty Cheese Quesadilla at its finest. With creamy, gooey cheese folded into a crispy tortilla, it’s a quick and budget-friendly comfort food. Great for kids, family meals, or a solo snack, this recipe is simple but full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Melty Cheese Quesadilla

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges. — Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skip the hefty price tag of holiday hams! This Copycat Honey Baked Ham recipe delivers all the tender, sweet-spiced flavors of the original right at home. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, it’s an impressive centerpiece without breaking the bank. Bonus: leftovers make for great sandwiches!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Loaded Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese. — Loaded Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving fast food but staying money-savvy? This Loaded Crunchwrap Supreme recipe lets you recreate Taco Bell’s iconic favorite with ease. Packed with layers of flavor and crunchy goodness, it’s the ultimate weeknight indulgence. Everyone will want seconds, and you might never go back to drive-thru versions!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Crunchwrap Supreme

Chicken Tikka Masala

Bring bold, restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen with this Chicken Tikka Masala. Rich spices and creamy sauce take center stage, offering the perfect homemade alternative to pricey takeout. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or impressing dinner guests, this dish is both comforting and cost-friendly!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun. — Juicy Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smash burgers are the secret to next-level homemade burgers. This Juicy Copycat Smash Burger recipe lets you recreate that griddle-seared crust and mouthwatering flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, it’s so good you’ll wonder why you ever paid takeout prices.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Savory Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper. — Savory Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a made-at-home classic? This Savory Mushroom Pizza rivals the flavor of your favorite pizza parlor. Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with gooey cheese for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect as a quick dinner or even snack, this recipe proves you don’t need to order out for top-tier pizza.
Get the Recipe: Savory Mushroom Pizza

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background. — Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits deliver flaky, cheesy perfection for a fraction of the price. Easy to whip up, they taste just like the restaurant version and always disappear fast at the table. Whether it’s a party appetizer or a warm side dish, they’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Sweet Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce. — Sweet Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Takeout cravings don’t stand a chance when this Sweet Orange Chicken is on the menu. Tangy, citrusy sauce and crispy chicken bites bring big, bold flavors to your dinner table. Perfect for busy evenings or a fun family dinner, this recipe saves money and wins hearts every time you serve it!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Orange Chicken

Tangy Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside. — Tangy Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This Tangy Chick-fil-A Sauce recipe is a game-changer for nugget and fry lovers. Creamy with just the right hint of sweetness, it’s ridiculously close to the restaurant version. Mix up a batch for dipping, drizzling, or serving with homemade nuggets; it’s like Chick-fil-A on demand without the expense!
Get the Recipe: Tangy Chick-fil-A Sauce

Savory Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth. — Savory Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Skip expensive takeout and try this Savory Tofu Fried Rice for an easy homemade meal. Packed with veggies and crispy tofu, it’s an affordable dinner that hits all the right flavor notes. Great for weeknights, it’s simple to prepare and loved by vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. You might never order out again!
Get the Recipe: Savory Tofu Fried Rice

Chipotle’s Perfectly Seasoned Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl. — Chipotle’s Perfectly Seasoned Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Recreate Chipotle flavors at home with this Chipotle’s Perfectly Seasoned Black Beans recipe. Tender, flavorful, and budget-friendly, these beans enhance any bowl, taco, or burrito you whip up. Great on their own or paired with other dishes, they’re a simple go-to for restaurant-quality meals at home.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle’s Perfectly Seasoned Black Beans

Sweet General Tso’s Chicken

Stir-fried chicken pieces in a spicy sauce, garnished with chopped green onions, served in a round metal dish on an orange placemat. — Sweet General Tso’s Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving that sweet and tangy takeout favorite? This Sweet General Tso’s Chicken gives you all the classic flavors without the delivery fee. Crispy chicken and flavorful sauce are perfectly balanced to fulfill every craving. Make it once, and it might just become your go-to over ordering out!
Get the Recipe: Sweet General Tso’s Chicken

Juicy Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce. — Juicy Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

These Juicy Korean Burgers combine bold spices and a touch of sweetness for a unique twist on homemade burgers. Perfect for grilling nights or quick dinners, they’re packed with flavor without the restaurant wait or wallet hit. Serve them up once, and they’ll quickly earn their spot on your dinner rotation!
Get the Recipe: Juicy Korean Burgers

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese. — Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring the restaurant home with this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta recipe. Tender chicken and creamy pasta create a comforting dish that rivals the original. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet dinner, this recipe is proof that you don’t need reservations for restaurant-worthy meals!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Soft Fluffy Naan Bread

A stack of flatbreads garnished with chopped parsley sits on a cloth, with a white pepper grinder, fresh herbs, a lemon wedge, and a bowl of yellow sauce nearby. — Soft Fluffy Naan Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Soft Fluffy Naan Bread makes even weeknight dinners feel special. With its pillowy texture and golden finish, it’s the homemade companion you need for curries, soups, or wraps. Skip the store-bought versions and enjoy fresh naan any time; it’s surprisingly simple and totally worth it!
Get the Recipe: Soft Fluffy Naan Bread

Crispy Raising Cane Tenders

A breaded and golden-brown fried chicken tender being dipped into a white sauce in a bowl, with more chicken tenders in the background. — Crispy Raising Cane Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chicken-finger lovers, rejoice! These Crispy Raising Cane Tenders bring restaurant-quality crunch and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect with your favorite dipping sauces, they’ll have everyone grabbing seconds. You won’t believe how easy and affordable it is to make these at home and skip the takeout!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Raising Cane Tenders

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Meatless never tasted so good! This Copycat Chipotle Sofritas recipe captures the smoky, spicy flavors of the restaurant favorite. Great for vegan burritos, bowls, or tacos, it’s perfect for any crowd and saves you money while delivering big flavor. Try it once, and it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen lineup!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Quick Chicken Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chicken in a pan, featuring carrots, cabbage, and green onions. — Quick Chicken Chow Mein. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skip expensive takeout and whip up this Quick Chicken Chow Mein instead! Loaded with ingredients you already love, it’s fast, flavorful, and wallet-friendly. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it’s the homemade version that keeps takeout cravings in check. Bonus: leftovers are even better the next day!
Get the Recipe: Quick Chicken Chow Mein

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background. — Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy, creamy, and downright irresistible, these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites deliver restaurant-quality goodness from your own kitchen. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re indulgent without breaking your budget. Make these once, and they’ll be requested at every gathering, they’re that good!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks. — Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When takeout prices spike, this Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice comes to the rescue. Packed with savory goodness and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy nights. Whether you make it as a main dish or side, one bite of this recipe will remind you why homemade wins over ordering out any day!
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Chicken Fried Rice

Rich Coconut Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, bok choy, mushrooms, half a boiled egg, sesame seeds, and lime, garnished with chili slices. Black chopsticks hold some noodles above the bowl. — Rich Coconut Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Give instant ramen a major upgrade with this Rich Coconut Ramen recipe. Creamy, ultra-flavorful broth and tender noodles take this dish to the next level. Perfect for cool nights or quick lunches, it’s proof that budget-friendly meals can be both hearty and luxurious, without ever needing a food delivery app.
Get the Recipe: Rich Coconut Ramen

Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives. — Tender Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring Chinese restaurant flavors home with this Tender Sweet and Sour Pork recipe. Its perfectly balanced sauce works wonders on the crispy pork bites, making it a winner for family dinners or hosting friends. Forget the takeout menu, this homemade version hits the spot and saves your wallet!
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet and Sour Pork

Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions. — Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tangy, crisp, and absolutely irresistible, this Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp brings everyone’s favorite appetizer to your kitchen. Coated in bold flavors, it’s perfect for parties or adding flair to dinner. When restaurant cravings hit, this recipe delivers, making family and friends shout your praises with every bite!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

A bowl of rice topped with broccoli, chicken, red peppers, green onions, and sesame seeds, with black chopsticks resting on the side. — Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Make this Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry for a homemade meal that’s fast, flavorful, and budget-friendly. Tender chicken and fresh veggies shine in a perfectly balanced sauce that’ll remind you of your favorite Asian takeout. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight, but tasty enough to serve to guests!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden. — Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy, comforting, and wonderfully indulgent, this Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings signature Italian flavors to your table. Perfect for special dinners or treating yourself, this recipe saves you the cost of dining out while delivering restaurant-level deliciousness, all in the comfort of your own home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Crispy Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce. — Crispy Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Give your homemade wings a bold twist with this Crispy Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings recipe. Packed with spice and crunch, they’re perfect for game days, parties, or casual dinners. You’ll love skipping the high takeout prices while still enjoying restaurant-quality flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Make Chipotle’s Famous Burrito Bowl at Home

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge. — Make Chipotle’s Famous Burrito Bowl at Home. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skip the line and make Chipotle’s Famous Burrito Bowl at Home! Loaded with fresh ingredients and perfectly balanced flavors, this recipe costs less but feels just as indulgent. Whether you assemble one for lunch or treat friends to a bowl bar, this dish is both customizable and delicious every time.
Get the Recipe: Make Chipotle’s Famous Burrito Bowl at Home

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley. — Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings delivers rustic comfort food for far less than restaurant prices. Tender chicken, buttery dumplings, and a rich broth come together perfectly in this homemade version. Serve this dish once, and it’ll earn a top spot in your cozy meal rotation!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Savory Street Steak Tacos

Bold flavors meet convenience in these Savory Street Steak Tacos that rival your favorite taco truck. Perfectly seasoned steak makes every bite deeply fulfilling and easy to love. Whether it’s a casual dinner or taco night with friends, these homemade tacos bring big taste without the price shock of takeout options.
Get the Recipe: Savory Street Steak Tacos