Sometimes, you’re craving the rolls from your favorite restaurant, but it’s already past midnight and you know they’re closed. Or, you’re trying to save money by not ordering delivery or dining out, but you can’t stop thinking about the spinach and artichoke dip you could be eating. And what do you do when your go-to taco gets taken off the menu?!
These copycat recipes from restaurants are here to save your day, night, and wallet.
From comfort food favorites like Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana and Wendy’s chilli, to sweet treats such as Crumbl cookies or a Ding Dong-inspired cake, these restaurant recipes let you enjoy dining out without leaving home.
1. Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic comfort dish, so it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular Olive Garden copycat recipes.
With just 10 simple ingredients, you can have this rich, satisfying pasta at home.
The secret to the thick creamy sauce is the flour and butter roux, which only takes a few minutes to prepare.
Add chicken or shrimp to make a complete meal, and serve it up with vegetables on the side or mixed in. If you want to customize the flavors, try some other cheeses, like Romano, asiago, mozzarella, or even gouda.
All you’ll need is a basket of breadsticks to enjoy every spoonful.
2. Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Serve this hashbrown casserole for breakfast, dinner, or steal the show at your next potluck.
These perfect hashbrowns only need 6 simple ingredients to please everyone at the table. Try different soups or even dip mixes to find your favorite flavor combination.
Using sharp cheddar keeps this from being too greasy. If you’re bringing this casserole to a party or serving it for brunch, make the dish ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Then you can pop it in the oven in the morning and get ready to enjoy.
3. Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden might be famous for its pasta, but its soups are many people’s favorites.
The roasted chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies in this soup are easy to find and add a healthy profile to the creamy broth.
Your gnocchi can be dried, fresh, homemade, or frozen. Or, substitute potato gnocchi for other varieties, like cauliflower.
This recipe calls for chicken breast but you can use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor, or cooked chicken thighs for a meatier texture.
Your leftovers should keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, or you can make a double batch and freeze for later.
4. Copy Cat Cinnabon Recipe
Just thinking about Cinnabon fills your memory with the irresistible smell of sugar, cinnamon, and baking bread. With this easy copycat recipe, now you can enjoy that delicious aroma at home!
This recipe will create the best Cinnabon copycats, with a delicate center, crunchy outer layers, and plenty of cream cheese frosting to melt into the rolls.
These are perfect for brunch, breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You can make them ahead of time by freezing them unbaked. Then, thaw them for 8 hours or overnight in a greased pan and bake in the morning.
5. Wendy’s Chili
When the weather starts getting cold and you’re craving a cup of Wendy’s chilli, you won’t even have to go outside to get what you want.
This easy chilli is one of the best restaurant recipes. The secret is using two kinds of beans, kidney, and pinto, and cooking at a low simmer in a heavy-bottomed pot. You want to keep everything warm without burning to the bottom of the pan.
This copycat will taste just like Wendy’s, but you can adjust with any seasonings you like. Make it spicier with jalapeños or chipotle peppers, or add the herbs and spices you prefer.
Don’t forget to melt in a tablespoon of butter after cooking to bring the flavors together and make the texture richer.
Serve this chilli warm with cornbread or rice, or complete Wendy’s experience with a baked potato!
6. Copycat crumbl chocolate chip cookies
Crumbl Bakeries are located throughout the US but they’re not everywhere. If you’re missing a towering Crumbl cookie, this recipe will satisfy your craving.
Crumbl serves huge, milk chocolate chip cookies, with crispy outsides and soft insides.
The secret is to pull apart your dough balls and put them back together inside out – you don’t want a smooth cookie here.
You can also use cake flour to get the soft, crumbly texture. Chill or freeze your dough before baking to keep the cookies thick in the oven. For maximum effect, make a big batch and freeze the formed dough balls so you can have cookies on demand.
Don’t forget to serve these warm, just like at Crumbl!
7. Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread Recipe
This is one of the most highly rated Starbucks copycat recipes because it comes from the original Starbucks recipe!
With only 10 ingredients, you can enjoy Starbucks banana bread from home, saving your time and money for more important things (or probably just more Starbucks). One of the key steps in this recipe is the long bake at a lower temperature than some other banana bread.
The secret to successful Starbucks banana bread is using ripe or slightly overripe bananas for the best banana flavor.
If your bananas are too fresh, ripen them in a brown paper bag for 1-2 days. Or, bake them whole in a 300° oven for 30 minutes. Let them cool for 30 minutes after, too.
Replace the walnuts with pecans or add chocolate chips for extra deliciousness. Serve with your favorite Jamba juice for the full copycat experience.
8. Cheesecake Factory Original Cheesecake Copycat
Some people know Cheesecake Factory for its extensive menu and unique decor, but some people really came for the cheesecake.
There are over 30 flavors to choose from at the restaurant, but this recipe claims the original is truly the best.
If you’re undecided, this creamy, not-too-sweet copycat will help you choose.
The graham cracker crust and silky texture are must-haves, but it’s the thin layer of sour cream topping that defines this Cheesecake Factory original cheesecake.
Cheesecake can be tricky. Prevent cracks in your cake by bringing all of your ingredients to room temperature before mixing, and cooling the cake slowly after baking.
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze this cheesecake whole, or in slices. Be sure to freeze it without the sour cream topping.
Your cake should have completely cooled and been refrigerated for at least 6 hours before you wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or bag. Thaw your cake overnight in the fridge before serving.
9. Copycat chipotle chicken recipe
Easy, healthy, and versatile, this recipe will help you prepare chicken just like the chicken in Chipotle Mexican Grill’s burritos, tacos, and bowls.
You can bake, grill, or sear your chicken on the stovetop. Make it in batches for meal prep and save time during the week.
Serve over rice and beans, in soft or crunchy tortillas, or fill a cheesy quesadilla. Don’t forget your side of salsa or mixed veggies. And at home, your guacamole doesn’t have to be extra!
This simple recipe lets you enjoy your Chipotle favorite any time, anyway.
10. KFC Coleslaw
I can’t imagine KFC chicken without the sweet, cooling coleslaw that goes perfectly with both extra crispy and original recipe! This copycat offers a fresh, tangy coleslaw you can eat all summer.
The base of the coleslaw – onion, cabbage, and carrot – comes together in a few minutes. Then all you have to do is mix in your dressing and let the whole dish rest in the fridge for the flavors to meld.
That leaves you plenty of time to get your pulled pork, bbq ribs, or copycat fried chicken ready for your plate.
11. Mongolian Beef
Mongolian beef is a delicious dish of salty and sweet chunks of steak with a crispy bite.
This is one of my favorite restaurant recipes because of its irresistible sauce and the crunchy exterior of the beef.
To get the crispy outside, be sure to dry your beef well before tossing it with the cornstarch This prevents clumping and gritty texture.
Also, you should cook steak in batches so your pan isn’t crowded. You want your beef to get crispy, not steamed and soft.
You can adjust this recipe to your taste: add red pepper flakes for some heat or tone down the salt with a low-sodium soy sauce.
Mongolian beef is usually served over rice with steamed or sauteed vegetables on the side, but you can try it at home with your favorite noodles.
You can even create tacos using dumpling wrappers or rice paper and topping with fresh shredded veggies!
12. Zuppa Toscana Copycat
This hearty, creamy, filling soup is an Olive Garden favorite that is perfect for autumn evenings or snowy winter days.
If you don’t like kale, you’ll be surprised how you don’t mind it in this soup!
Be sure to use kale leaves but cut or tear away the thick stem. You can try a healthy version by leaving out the cream.
The broth will be thick from the flour and potatoes, and the salty sausage flavors will go well with the sweetness of the kale.
Whether you go traditional or put your own spin on it, serve your soup with crusty bread to soak up all of the delicious, savory broth.
13. Copycat Chick Fil Nuggets
Chick-Fil-A is many people’s guilty pleasure fast food. While a lot of people swear by their sandwiches, this recipe will bring home their delicious chicken nuggets.
If you’re trying to save money or you want to break your Chick-Fil-A habit, try this copycat recipe.
These nuggets are a treat for kids and adults. The secret ingredient is a touch of powdered sugar in the batter, which keeps it light and soft like cornstarch and also adds some sweetness.
Using only a handful of ingredients that you probably have already, this recipe can have your chicken nuggets ready in 30 minutes! That’s faster than going to the drive-thru!
You can even try an at-home pickle version by marinating your chicken in dill pickle juice for 20 minutes before battering and frying. Fry these nuggets in peanut, vegetable, or coconut oil, or use your air fryer.
Serve these with dipping sauces as a snack, or with french fries, baked potatoes, or zucchini fries for a more filling meal.
14. IHOP Pancakes Copycat
Going to IHOP can mean a long line of hungry diners between you and your pancakes. With this copycat recipe, you can enjoy thick, fluffy pancakes without waiting for a table.
These are great for breakfast or brunch, and even better for dinner! The simple recipe is also very adaptable. You can replace the flour if you need to or mix in fresh fruit for variety.
Be delicate with your pancakes to keep them light and fluffy: don’t mix your batter much, keep your pan or griddle low heat with only a light swipe of oil or butter, and have patience before you flip each pancake. With practice, you’ll stack up fluffy pancakes every time.
Serve these warm with butter and syrup, or add a side of bacon and eggs.
15. Healthy Copycat Starbucks Egg Bites Recipe
Between the coffee, the convenience, and the to-go breakfasts, Starbucks can put a serious dent in your paycheck.
This copycat recipe will save you money and help you with healthy breakfast ideas.
Starbucks sous vide egg bites are easy to copy using your Instant Pot, and they’ll be ready in about 20 minutes.
If you don’t have molds, you can use small mason jars or ramekins. You can also make these in the oven using a muffin tin.
These egg bites are a healthy version of the Starbucks variety. They use cottage cheese and greek yogurt to add filling protein and a satisfying, rich texture.
They are also low-calorie, so you can keep on track with Weight Watchers or other diets.
Make these for the week ahead and pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds before breakfast – just like they do at Starbucks!
You can also freeze them so they will keep longer. Freeze the bites individually on a tray or baking sheet, then put them in a container or bag together.
Customize your fillings as you like: add the veggies, meats, or cheeses you prefer, or make different combinations in the same batch for variety throughout the week.
16. Instant Pot Artichoke and Spinach Dip Applebee’s Copycat
Spinach and Artichoke Dip is an Applebee’s classic, and this crowd-pleasing dish is so easy to make at home that you’ll never want to order it again.
You can make this in the oven, but it’s even easier in the Instant Pot. Using 10 easy ingredients you can keep on hand, this is one of those perfect Instant Pot recipes for beginners. It will be ready in 6 minutes!
This rich, creamy, garlicky dip is great for a snack after work or school, or for munching on during movie night.
You can make it exactly as the recipe says, or you can add some red pepper flakes for a kick.
If you want to replace frozen spinach with fresh, just wilt the spinach in olive oil and squeeze out some of the liquid before adding it to the other ingredients.
Serve with warm pita, tortilla chips, toasted french bread, or pita chips, or use it as a pasta sauce!
17. Texas Roadhouse Rolls
At some restaurants, the bread is the real star, and Texas Roadhouse’s rolls are proof!
This copycat recipe serves up the fluffy, buttery dinner rolls you love, in their signature square shape.
You can make this dough in a bread machine or by hand. Either way, be sure to properly scald your milk.
This step destroys the proteins that weaken gluten and makes your rolls fluffy and soft inside, instead of flat and dense.
Brush with honey butter for a sweet finish, or make a savory version with garlic butter.
18. Ding Dong Cake
Whether you’re looking for the perfect nostalgic birthday surprise, or you want the flavors of your childhood in a more sophisticated package, make this Ding Dong Cake.
This recipe takes your favorite snack cakes and transforms them into a beautiful, decadent dessert that will wow everyone who gets a slice.
With two layers of chocolate cake with a thick cream frosting in the middle and rich chocolate ganache coating, this cake is like a giant Ding Dong. It’s perfect for birthdays, but it’s great any day!
The secret ingredient in this cake is a ¼ cup of coffee that will amplify the chocolate flavors without adding a coffee taste.
The Ermine frosting in the middle is also key. Ermine frosting has a thick, pudding-like texture from cooking milk and flour together for a fluffy, substantial filling.
Don’t use regular frosting or plain whipped cream – they won’t be able to hold up to the weight of the top layer of cake.
19. Anne’s pretzels with cheddar dipping sauce
This copycat Auntie Anne’s recipe will transport you to the mall food court for pretzel perfection: crisp crust outside, warm and chewy inside, and even the perfect cheese sauce for dipping on the side.
You won’t be able to resist eating the whole batch of pretzel bites once you smell them baking in your oven.
Baker’s tip: let your dough rise in your warmed oven so the yeast can do its work. Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature while you mix your dough.
Then, turn off the heat and let your dough rest inside the oven. This should give you the perfect rise for these copycat pretzels.
And if you have somehow tired of salty pretzels and cheese sauce, make a sweet version by sprinkling the hot buttered pretzels with cinnamon sugar.
20. Chili’s Salsa
There’s just something about restaurant salsa that makes those tortilla chips disappear.
The next time you’re craving chips and salsa from your favorite chain, try this Chili’s copycat recipe.
With just a handful of ingredients, this 1 step recipe will dish out the perfect restaurant salsa that you can enjoy whenever, wherever.
The key is to blend or process carefully. Don’t puree the ingredients. You want your tomatoes chunky, not soupy.
You can make this salsa spicy, medium, or mild: add fresh peppers to your taste. Make a big batch to share as a gift for neighbors, friends, or teachers. Just add chips.
21. Green Goddess Salad Dressing
Green Goddess is a creamy, herbaceous, springy dressing that you’ve probably seen on menus at hotel restaurants and country clubs.
This copycat recipe makes a delicious replica of the classic salad dressing, and it’s also a great dip for fresh veggies or topping for seared salmon.
You can also try it as a sandwich spread or a replacement for mayonnaise in potato or egg salad.
22. Beef Meximelt Recipe
Taco Bell’s Meximelt was a cross between a soft taco and a quesadilla, featuring the iconic Fiesta Sauce.
Unfortunately, it was taken off the menu a couple of years ago, but this copycat recipe will help you satisfy that craving.
This recipe calls for pico de gallo but what you really need is the salsa of your choice. The sauce from the blended tomatoes is what brings the beef together.
The other secret to this recipe is to get your ground beef into small chunks. You can try a potato masher to break it up or use the back of a fork.
With only 5 ingredients, it’s easier than ordering delivery. In no time, you can enjoy melty cheese, saucy beef, and a warm tortilla!
23. Air Fryer Red Lobster Copycat Coconut Shrimp
If you’re looking for air fryer recipes, this Red Lobster copycat is perfect. You can fry these in oil but using your air fryer will be cleaner, less greasy, and your shrimp will be evenly cooked.
The coconut shrimp are sweet and crunchy because of the breading with actual flakes of coconut mixed in.
You only need 6 ingredients to make this great summer dinner and enjoy tropical flavors and tender shrimp.
It’s best to use large or jumbo shrimp, but whatever size you use will determine cooking time.
If you use a smaller shrimp, don’t fry for too long or you’ll end up with tough, chewy shrimp.
Try different dipping sauces, such as Thai sweet chili, cocktail sauce, or tartar sauce.
Serve this Red Lobster classic with fried rice, fries, salad, or zucchini fries. And don’t forget a cool, crunchy side, like mango salsa or coleslaw.
24. Ohana Pineapple Banana Bread Pudding With Banana
This decadent dessert was inspired by bread pudding at Disney World.
The key to this recipe is to give the bread enough time to absorb all of the liquid.
Some bread pudding recipes recommend letting the bread soak for a few hours, but this recipe instructs you to let it rest overnight.
This creates the custardy, soft texture that makes bread pudding so delicious. (If you’re craving a dessert like this but you’re short on time, try one of these instant pudding desserts for a lush, creamy treat that can be ready in minutes.)
This copycat recipe is the bread pudding dreams are made of a mind-blowing combination of bread pudding, pineapple upside-down cake, and banana bread.
24 Best Copycat Recipes to Try at Home
Ingredients
- 1. Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
- 2. Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- 3. Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- 4. Copy Cat Cinnabon Recipe
- 5. Wendy’s Chili
- 6. Copycat crumbl chocolate chip cookies
- 7. Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread Recipe
- 8. Cheesecake Factory Original Cheesecake Copycat
- 9. Copycat chipotle chicken recipe
- 10. KFC Coleslaw
- 11. Mongolian Beef
- 12. Zuppa Toscana Copycat
- 13. Copycat Chick Fil Nuggets
- 14. IHOP Pancakes Copycat
- 15. Healthy Copycat Starbucks Egg Bites Recipe
- 16. Instant Pot Artichoke and Spinach Dip Applebee’s Copycat
- 17. Texas Roadhouse Rolls
- 18. Ding Dong Cake
- 19. Anne’s pretzels with cheddar dipping sauce
- 20. Chili’s Salsa
- 21. Green Goddess Salad Dressing
- 22. Beef Meximelt Recipe
- 23. Air Fryer Red Lobster Copycat Coconut Shrimp
- 24. Ohana Pineapple Banana Bread Pudding With Banana
Instructions
- Choose your favorite copycat dish!
- Prepare ingredients according to the recipe.
- Be ready in 30 minutes or less!