I Relied On These 29 Recipes When I Didn’t Want To Deal With Takeout Again

ByMandy

Takeout can get old fast, especially after too many boxes and cold fries. The kitchen started to look better than the delivery app. These 29 recipes came in handy when nothing from outside sounded good. Each meal was simple, quick, and made with things already at home.

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley.
Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want something hearty without ordering out, this dish has your back. It’s packed with flavors that make it feel like comfort in a pan. Cattle Drive Casserole is all about simplicity yet keeps things interesting. Perfect for those nights when all you want is something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Korean Burgers

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

Craving a burger but looking for a twist, that’s where Korean Burgers step in with a balance of flavors that’ll shake up any routine. Made for those times you want a quick meal without grabbing fast food. Boldly delicious and a great way to mix things up at home.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some nights call for pasta with flair, and Tuscan Pasta fits that perfectly. It brings together easy to make and delicious, with just enough to make you look forward to staying in. Skip the delivery pasta and opt for something fresh and homemade. It’s simple, enjoyable, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If comfort food is the mood, Cheese Grits can always deliver. Easy to whip together yet full of creamy goodness bound to make you feel at ease. You won’t be dialing for takeout after making this dish. It’s reliable, cozy, and just what’s needed when you don’t want extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Whenever the craving strikes for something classic but doable, Beef Bourguignon has you covered. You won’t need a restaurant to enjoy this fulfilling dish. It’s hearty and made with ease in mind, perfect for cooking after a busy day. Skip takeout and make something memorable instead.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s all about quick, wholesome food. Vegetable Stir Fry is a go to option when ordering food just doesn’t appeal anymore. Fast but still loaded with flavors that can keep you wanting more. Keep this recipe handy for those nights filled with rushed decisions on what to eat.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Leg of Lamb

Two roasted lamb shanks on a plate with rosemary and caramelized onions, with stacked plates in the background.
Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Got a quiet evening and need a reliable meal, Leg of Lamb is an option that’s easy but still feels special enough for any home cooked dinner. It’s well rounded and just enough to feel like a break from the usual dinner routine. Skip the restaurant route and enjoy something homemade.
Get the Recipe: Leg of Lamb

Roast Beef

Sliced roast beef served on a bed of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh rosemary.
Roast Beef. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

On nights when you want something dependable but tasty enough, give Roast Beef a try. It’s classic, easy to bring together, but never feels boring. Made for those moments where calling for delivery just doesn’t cut it anymore. Comforting without needing to be super elaborate.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Thinking about pasta with a bold touch, Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta takes a familiar dish and makes it more fun to whip up. No need for greasy takeout when this recipe is in your back pocket. It’s fast and great when you need something reliable yet exciting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A simple warm dish can truly save dinner plans, which is what Kimchi Stew achieves perfectly. Every bite offers a combination that’s easy enough for home cooking any night. It’s worked for countless dinners when avoiding takeout options. Easy to make, warm, and plenty worth repeating.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Udon Noodles

A close-up of stir-fried noodles with green beans, red bell peppers, and carrots, garnished with sesame seeds.
Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A craving for noodles can easily lead to food delivery, but Udon Noodles are too simple to pass over. Perfect for nights spent cozying inside when fast food feels too predictable. This dish is one to rely on thanks to its ease and appeal. It’s a quick way to mix something new into your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dinner plans can turn around quickly with a simple meal like Gnocchi. It often becomes a favorite choice because of its easy and approachable nature. Forget busy takeout lines when this meal makes staying home much better. It’s effortless yet feels like you’ve made the right call.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Packed with flavor, Twice Baked Potatoes are a meal that can brighten up even the busiest evening. Easy to throw together but hearty enough to skip grabbing food elsewhere. For those stay in nights, this dish always feels just right. A great go to when dinner plans need a quick fix.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Orange Chicken

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

Meals like Orange Chicken are perfect for staying in without missing out on something restaurant inspired. It’s simple, flavorful, and saves the effort of calling for takeout again. Perfect for nights when you need a quick option that still feels homemade. Reliable and easy to enjoy anytime.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When skipping takeout, dishes like Hasselback Potatoes prove that great meals don’t need much hassle. It’s a treat and keeps cooking at home feeling simple, but still worth it. Often preferred as a quick fix for tasty dinners. This option works well as your go-to for relaxed nights in.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A warm and comforting meal can be a great escape when you’re too tired to order food. Homemade Lasagna offers layers of rich goodness that can be prepared ahead to save time. Make it for yourself or share—it’s always worth it. Tackling mealtime just got stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes you just need something quick and reliable during busy evenings. Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe comes through with everything cooked together in one go. It’s an easy way to make dinner without relying on takeout again. Perfect for when you want simple without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Handling dinner doesn’t have to be complicated after tough, long days. Ravioli Casserole pulls together baked, filling flavors that feel like a reward. It’s perfect when the fridge feels uninspiring, but you still want a proper meal. One dish that really helps replace those takeout temptations.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tired evenings deserve meals that come together effortlessly, yet feel complete. Easy Meatloaf Recipe turns pantry staples into something comforting and reliable. It’s perfect enough to skip the thought of grabbing takeout. You’ll appreciate the simplicity in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Sausage Casserole

A baked dish containing sliced sausages, potatoes, and green beans in a white casserole dish with a serving spoon.
Sausage Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dinner on hectic evenings often needs to be dependable but not boring. Sausage Casserole fits the bill, bringing you bold, hearty flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels like it’s got your back when ordering out seems like too much effort. One recipe you’ll want to keep handy.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Casserole

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s no need to drive to the restaurant when you’ve decided to skip takeout for good. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe makes any evening better with that familiar, crave worthy finish. Super useful for those nights you want something familiar at home. Definitely hits that no-fuss meal spot.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Firecracker Meatballs

A plate of meatballs topped with sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions on a bed of white rice.
Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dinner doesn’t always need a big plan and endless ingredients. Firecracker Meatballs offer a flavorful twist when you’re over dialing for takeout. It’s easy to prepare and turns into one of those go to meal favorites. Keeps life simple with zero regrets.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of stacked quesadilla slices filled with cheese, beans, and chicken, topped with sliced jalapeños and cilantro, on a white plate.
Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Long days call for something that’s both practical and enjoyable after-work meals. Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas are a no-mess solution with just the right level of flavor stacked in. You’ll never miss takeout again with this on your list. A good recipe to fall back on anytime.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dinner doesn’t always need to be complicated, especially after an exhausting day. Lentil Soup makes staying home worth it with its warm and balanced finish. A simple bowl of goodness that’s enough to skip takeout for another night. Save this when you need something dependable and easy.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground.
Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making dinner can be quick yet delicious when you have the right dish in mind. Beef Enchilada Casserole fills in perfectly when you want something rich without the hassle of ordering fast food. Everything baked together helps you forget any stress about eating out. A recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone deserves a home-cooked dinner even on the busiest nights. Pasta alla Norma blends bold, great flavors that fit into a busy life without much effort. It’s one of those meals that makes you finally feel less reliant on ordering. Just enough simplicity with good results every time.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finding comfort in food doesn’t always mean heading to nearby stores and restaurants. Garlic Knots leave you with just enough homemade touch for those snacky or light meal days. Perfectly baked and ready, it’s hard to go back to fast food alternatives. You’ll definitely want these on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside.
Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skipping takeout feels right when you’ve got something appealing on hand. Marry Me Butter Beans offer a filling yet simple dinner solution that’s hard to resist. It’s easy to prepare without complicating your evening routine. One recipe to trust without needing extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dinner can still feel worthwhile even on nights when cooking feels like a task. Creamy Beef Stroganoff saves you from ordering out with rich layers that comfort every bite. Simple enough to throw together when you’re short on time or energy. Great for replacing restaurant cravings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

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