120 Restaurant Copycat Recipes That Are Better Than the Real Thing
Updated: Apr. 18, 2023
You're craving your favorite restaurant meal, but not the drive, the wait or the bill. Here's how to make it yourself!
Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat
This copycat version of Panera Bread’s broccoli cheddar soup will warm you up from the inside out. Serve it in bread bowls to make it even more comforting. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
While you’re here, find out more about why Panera Bread has one of the best fast food hot chocolates.
Wendy’s Chili Copycat
Work with (mostly) pantry staples to make a copycat version of Wendy’s chili. This hearty recipe will save you a trip to the drive-thru! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
We bet you didn’t know these facts about the Wendy’s Frosty.
Chick-fil-A Sauce Copycat
Thanks to this copycat Chick-fil-A sauce recipe, you won’t have to ask for extra sauces to take home with you next time you visit the restaurant. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Check out why Chick-fil-A’s been named America’s favorite restaurant.
Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat
Orange chicken is one of the best items to get at Panda Express. Try making it at home with fried rice and honey walnut shrimp! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Here are some Panda Express facts you didn’t know about America’s biggest Chinese chain.
TGI Fridays Loaded Potato Skins Copycat
Wondering how to make potato skins taste great? I top my restaurant-worthy loaded potato skins with cheese, bacon and a dollop of sour cream. Have them at lunch, snack time or cocktail hour. —Trish Perrin, Keizer, OR
Learn more about the best restaurant deals at your favorite chains.
KFC Fried Chicken Copycat
If you’ve wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, MT
Here’s what makes KFC’s chicken so crispy. Oh, and don’t forget about the best ways to reheat your fried chicken leftovers, too.
McDonald’s Egg McMuffin Copycat
Missed breakfast at McDonald’s? Don’t fret—this copycat McDonald’s Egg McMuffin recipe has you covered. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Here’s why McDonald’s almost didn’t add the Egg McMuffin to its menu.
Chipotle Barbacoa Copycat
My husband adores this barbacoa, which is beef roast simmered in lime juice, chipotle and cumin. He would eat it once a week if I would make it that often! We have it over rice with cilantro and a spritz of lime. —Aundrea McCormick, Denver
Next, learn these Chipotle secrets employees won’t tell you.
Starbucks Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf Copycat
Skip the line and bake Starbucks pumpkin bread in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe may be even better than the original! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Have you ever noticed this hidden detail in the Starbucks logo?
Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti al Forno Copycat
After having the five-cheese ziti at Olive Garden, I tried to make my own version of it—and I think I got pretty close. I always double this when I’m making it and freeze the second one for another meal. —Keri Whitney, Castro Valley, California
Here are some of Olive Garden’s other best recipes.
Nothing Bundt Cake Copycat
After the cake has cooled, pipe the frosting down the sides to make it look just like a true Nothing Bundt Cake. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe
I developed this recipe specifically to copycat Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets. The first time I made them I knew I had a winner because the whole family fought over who got the last one! For a dipping sauce, combine equal parts barbecue sauce and Dijon mustard, then stir in honey to taste. —Jeni Pittard, Statham, GA
California Pizza Kitchen Thai Chicken Pizza Copycat
Contributor Gigi Miller, from Stoughton, Wisconsin, provided a fabulous recipe for sweet and saucy chicken thighs that she serves with rice. We took it a step further, and used the chicken and sauce to make this restaurant-inspired Thai pizza. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Panera Bread Bread Bowls Copycat
Bread bowls make every dish at Panera that much better. Learn how to make them at home, so you can fill them with all your favorite homemade soups and pasta dishes, or another Panera copycat recipe like tomato soup. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
The Cheesecake Factory Pasta Napolitana Copycat
This is the ultimate meat lover’s sauce and is my copycat version of The Cheesecake Factory’s pasta. Rich and hearty, with tremendous flavors, this pasta Napolitana will disappear quickly. I always make extra sauce, as it freezes very well. —John Pittman, Northampton, PA
Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copycat
No need to go to Chicago, New York or California for the famous Magnolia Bakery banana pudding. Make it at home with just a few simple ingredients! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Olive Garden Chicken & Gnocchi Soup Copycat
I tasted a similar soup at Olive Garden and wanted to see if I could re-create it myself at home. Here’s the delicious result! It’s wonderful on a chilly evening. —Jaclynn Robinson, Shingletown, CA
Starbucks Very Berry Coffee Cake Copycat
This tasty, wholesome coffee cake is loaded with fresh berries. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. —Heather O’Neill, Troy, OH
Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Copycat
If you love Olive Garden’s fettuccine Alfredo, you need to try this copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce recipe. Grate the cheese yourself to make sure it’s extra creamy! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Applebee’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes Copycat
These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are so good, you can serve them plain—no butter or gravy is needed. This is one of our favorite red potato recipes. —Valerie Mitchell, Olathe, KS
Wendy’s Frosty Copycat
A Wendy’s frosty isn’t a shake or even soft serve—it’s got a unique texture we all know and love. This copycat recipe is just like the real thing! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
The Cheesecake Factory Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake Copycat
I love both red velvet cake and cheesecake. So why not combine them into one stunning red velvet cheesecake recipe? It’s best when served chilled, right out of the fridge. —Melissa Gaines, Knoxville, TN
Orange Julius Original Copycat
I love to treat overnight guests to this creamy orange frappe. Just blitz a few basic ingredients in your blender and enjoy. —Joyce Mummau, Mount Airy, MD
Panera Bread Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Copycat
Years ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, but I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit! —Kristin Cherry, Bothell, WA
Chipotle Guacamole Copycat
No need to pay extra for guac anymore—rely on this copycat Chipotle guacamole recipe to satisfy your cravings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Noodles & Company Wisconsin Mac ‘n’ Cheese Copycat
I like to serve this mac ‘n’ cheese with a salad and crusty bread. It’s a satisfying meal that feels upscale, but will fit just about any budget. And because the Gorgonzola is so mild in this dish, even the kiddos will go for it. —Charlotte Giltner, Mesa, AZ
Butterbeer Copycat
Whether you enjoy it hot, cold or even frozen, this copycat butterbeer recipe will whisk you straight to Hogsmeade. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Copycat
Here’s a convenient spin on a classic Italian favorite. Spaghetti sauce and canned broth form the flavorful base. —Cindy Garland, Limestone, TN
McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets Copycat
Who doesn’t love McDonald’s chicken McNuggets? This copycat recipe will help satisfy your craving without having to sit in the drive-thru. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chipotle Rice Copycat
Learn how to make the signature dish at home. Put it in your own bowls or burritos, or another copycat Chipotle recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Copycat
Have half an hour? Whip up a batch of your favorite Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuits at home. You can even freeze leftovers for two to three months. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Copycat
Here’s a lightened-up take on the classic southern comfort food dish: chicken and gravy. This recipe has been a hit at our house since the first time we tried it! —Ruth Helmuth, Abbeville, SC
Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Copycat
Years ago, I drove 4-1/2 hours to a cake contest, holding my entry on my lap the whole way. But it paid off. One bite and you’ll see why this velvety beauty was named the best chocolate cake recipe and won first prize. —Sandra Johnson, Tioga, PA
Dunkin’ Iced Coffee with Mocha Flavor Swirl Copycat
When my sister introduced me to iced coffee, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Not only did I love it, but I decided to start making my own iced coffee recipe. This easy version is a refreshing alternative to hot coffee. —Jenny Reece, Lowry, MN
Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Copycat
Stopping at Cinnabon is one of the best parts of going to the mall. Recreate the smell of Cinnabon (and of course, the cinnamon rolls!) by making this copycat recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Country Kitchen Farm Skillet Copycat
I added a little color and flavor to this country scrambled eggs recipe by adding some green pepper, onion and red potatoes. —Joyce Platfoot, Wapakoneta, OH
The Cheesecake Factory Original Cheesecake Copycat
There’s nothing like a slice of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake—tangy, decadent and delicious. Our copycat recipe even has the same sour cream topping. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Country Kitchen Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp Copycat
I live in apple country, and making a delicious apple crisp is one way to use the fruit. This treat doesn’t take a lot of time to assemble. —Gertrude Bartnick, Portage, WI
Sonic Corn Dog Copycat
One of the best parts of the many fairs and festivals in Indiana is the corn dogs! My family loves corn dogs, so I fix them fairly often at home. —Sally Denney, Warsaw, IN
Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Copycat
I ran across this recipe in one of my antique cookbooks. It’s a timeless classic I like to prepare for friends and family throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. —Betty Ann Morgan, Upper Marlboro, MD
McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese Copycat
Go on a burger road trip in your own backyard. Grill the patties and load them sky-high with your favorite toppings. For instance, peanut butter and bacon make them southern style; coleslaw and tomatoes, a northern version. —Susan Mahaney, New Hartford, NY
Krispy Kreme Doughnut Recipe
The secret to a perfect copycat Krispy Kreme doughnut? The frying oil. Try our recipe and you’ll see! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Boston Market Meat Loaf Copycat
Mom made the best meatloaf, and now I do too. When I first met my husband, he didn’t care for homemade meatloaf, but this won him over. —Michelle Beran, Claflin, KS
Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Copycat
Everyone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom’s specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, PA
PF Chang’s House-Made Chicken Egg Rolls Copycat
These egg rolls are low in fat, but the crispiness from baking will fool you into thinking they were fried! —Barbara Lierman, Lyons, NE
Chili’s Chicken Fajitas Copycat
This chicken fajitas recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The marinated chicken in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves! —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, KY
Rock Bottom Carrot Cake Copycat
A pleasingly moist cake, this treat is the one I requested that my mom make each year for my birthday. It’s dotted with sweet carrots and a hint of cinnamon. The fluffy buttery frosting is scrumptious with chopped walnuts stirred in. One piece of this carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is never enough—it’s better than all the other carrot cakes I’ve tried! —Kim Orr, West Grove, PA
Popeyes Biscuits Copycat
The recipe for these four-ingredient homemade buttermilk biscuits has been handed down for many generations. —Fran Thompson, Tarboro, NC
Red Robin Chili Chili Cheeseburger Copycat
Big, bold chili and french-fried onions are a fun alternative to the classic burger fixings of ketchup and mustard. The patties are easy to assemble, making this a great weeknight sandwich. —Sue Ross, Casa Grande, AZ
Lofthouse Cookies Copycat
You won’t be able to tell the difference between these soft, pillowy copycat Lofthouse cookies and a package of store-bought treats. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
The Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Copycat
The brown bread at The Cheesecake Factory is just as exciting as the cheesecake. You won’t be able to tell the difference between this copycat recipe and the real thing! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Rock Bottom Ball Park Pretzels Copycat
My husband and our friends and family love these soft, chewy pretzels. Let the bread machine mix the dough, then all you have to do is shape and bake these fun snacks. —Sherry Peterson, Fort Collins, CO
State Fair Cream Puffs Copycat
The Wisconsin Bakers Association has served this cream puff recipe at our state fair since 1924. —Ruth Jungbluth, Dodgeville, WI
Portillo’s Chili Cheese Dog Copycat
These deluxe chili dogs are a surefire hit at family functions and tailgates. Adults and children alike love the cheesy chili sauce, and the toppings are fun! —Marion Lowery, Medford, OR
McCalister’s Deli Spud Olé Copycat
This is a stuffed potato with a tasty twist. Teenagers like the flavor that comes from the green chiles and cheese. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Boston Market Mac ‘n’ Cheese Copycat
Our stovetop macaroni and cheese is extra special, thanks to the buttery crumb topping. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Maggiano’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes Copycat
Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can also form the crab mixture into four thick patties instead of eight crab cakes. —Charlene Spelock, Apollo, PA
Culver’s Vanilla Custard Copycat
I think my most memorable summertime dessert for get-togethers has always been homemade ice cream. This recipe is so rich and creamy and is the perfect splurge on a hot summer afternoon. —Martha Self, Montgomery, TX
The Cheesecake Factory Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake Cheesecake Copycat
I said I’d take dessert to a holiday party, so I tried this recipe. I’m sure you’ll agree it tastes as luscious as it looks! —Dawn Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, PA
Red Lobster Garlic Shrimp Scampi Copycat
This shrimp scampi recipe looks elegant enough to serve to company, but it’s easy to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs enhance the shrimp. Serve it over pasta and wait for the compliments. —Lori Packer, Omaha, NE
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Texas Roadhouse Fried Catfish Copycat
Mississippi is the nation’s largest producer of farm-raised catfish. My family loves this dish and asks for it often. One reason I like it is it’s so simple to prepare. —Mrs. W.D. Baker, Starkville, MS
Noodles & Company Pesto Cavatappi Copycat
Prepared sauce accents this warm chicken pesto pasta. Keep pesto in the freezer for the next time you have leftover chicken. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Buffalo Wild Wings Bourbon Honey Mustard Wings Copycat
For a change from spicy Buffalo sauce, try these sweet and sticky wings. There’s a good chance they’ll become your new favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, NY
Noodles & Company Penne Rosa Copycat
I reworked this recipe from an original that called for vodka and heavy whipping cream. My friends and family had a hard time believing a sauce this rich, flavorful and creamy could be light. —Margaret Wilson, Hemet, CA
McCalister’s Deli Harvest Chicken Salad Copycat
These sandwiches are easy to pull together when you need something fun and taste-worthy in a flash. I make them often for occasions like brunches, church youth meetings and impromptu family gatherings. —Cheryl Sigler, Louisville, OH
Panda Express Chicken Pot Sticker Copycat
Chicken and mushrooms make up the filling in these pot stickers, a traditional Chinese dumpling. Greasing the steamer rack makes it easier to remove them once they’re steamed. —Jacquelynne Stine, Las Vegas
Hard Rock Cafe Cheesecake with Oreo Cookie Pieces Copycat
I used to think cheesecake sounded intimidating, but since I started making them I can’t stop! This simple but special cookie-topped version will make your family feel fussed over. —Rose Yoder, Middlebury, IN
The Cheesecake Factory Spicy Cashew Chicken Copycat
There are lots of recipes for cashew chicken, but my family thinks this one stands alone. We love the flavor from the fresh ginger and the crunch of the cashews. Another plus is it’s easy to prepare. —Oma Rollison, El Cajon, CA
California Pizza Kitchen The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza Copycat
So fast and so easy with refrigerated pizza crust, these saucy, smoky pizzas make quick fans with their rustic, hot-off-the-grill flavor. They’re perfect for impromptu cookouts and summer dinners on the patio. —Alicia Trevithick, Temecula, CA
Cracker Barrel Chicken n’ Dumplins Copycat
Using precooked chicken and ready-made biscuits, this hearty dish is comfort food made simple. It’s the perfect way to warm up on chilly nights. —Lakeya Astwood, Schenectady, NY
Culver’s Butterburger Copycat
It’s no secret that Wisconsinites love their dairy—so much that they sometimes top their burgers with a generous pat of butter. My recipe is a lot like the butter burgers you’ll find in popular restaurants all over the state. —Becky Carver, North Royalton, OH
Rock Bottom Bacon Jalapeño Poppers Copycat
There’s no faster way to get a party started than with these bacon jalapeño poppers. Make them ahead and bake just before serving. Even those who are intolerant of hot peppers will love them. —Dawn Onuffer, Crestview, FL
Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Copycat
Each sip of this spiced-just-right beverage from our very own baristas tastes like a piece of pumpkin pie! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Starbucks Bacon and Gruyere Egg Bites Copycat
You can substitute Gruyere cheese for the Swiss and ham for the bacon, or add in small-cut veggies to these copycat Starbucks egg bites. I also like to bake these in small Mason jars for fun single-portion presentations. Serve with avocado slices and fresh fruit for a healthy breakfast. —Maria Morelli, West Kelowna, British Columbia
PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps Copycat
This recipe is as tasty as the lettuce wraps found in national restaurants, but it’s healthier! —Linda Rowley, Richardson, TX
Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Copycat
I let my young son pick out seed packets, and he chose kale, which grew like crazy. This hearty soup helped make good use of it and rivals a restaurant version that we love. —Michelle Babbie, Malone, NY
Popeyes Seafood Po’Boy Copycat
This twist on the traditional po’boy sandwich adds flavor and veggies while reducing fat and calories. For a smoked flavor, grill the shrimp. For a lower-carb option, serve the po’boy open-faced on a baguette half. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, GA
Chipotle Corn Salsa Copycat
Chipotle corn salsa is a go-to topping for bowls and burritos alike. Make it at home so you can enjoy it however you like—even by the spoonful! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Copycat
If you’re feeling festive, scoop some vanilla ice cream over a bowl of these cinnamon spiced apples. They’re homey, aromatic and just plain heavenly. —Amie Powell, Knoxville, TN
Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger Copycat
My niece fell in love with the quesadilla burger from Applebee’s and challenged me to make it at home. She says this copycat Applebee’s quesadilla burger recipe is pretty darn close to the real thing! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Hard Rock Cafe Hickory-Smoked Ribs Copycat
When my family thinks of summer grilling, it’s ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions. —Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, FL
Chipotle Chicken Copycat
With the help of a flavorful marinade, Chipotle chicken is pretty easy to make at home. Fire up the grill and get going! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Einstein Bros. Bagels Asiago Bagel Copycat
Discover a cheesy alternative to the usual sweet bread brunch offerings. There’s no need to stop by a bakery when you can make this asiago bagel recipe at home. —Tami Kuehl, Loup City, NE
Bakers Square French Silk Pie Copycat
Chocolate makes the world go round! We have a family that loves chocolate pies, and this version with a splash of brandy is smooth as silk and oh so special. —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, RI
IHOP Blueberry Pancakes Copycat
My dad makes blueberry pancakes for us every Saturday without fail. The combination of oats, cornmeal and buttermilk in the batter gives the pancakes heartiness we can’t resist. —Gabrielle Short, Pleasant Hill, IA
Starbucks Iced Lemon Loaf Copycat
My family always asks for this love-me-tender lemon loaf cake. Sometimes, I shake things up and make cupcakes with the batter. So awesome for brunch! —Lola Baxter, Winnebago, MN
The Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Copycat
Shrimp scampi is a delicious dish to turn to when the huge menu at the Cheesecake Factory becomes too overwhelming. When serving, put the lightly breaded shrimp around the mound of angel hair pasta to plate it just like the restaurant does. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
PF Chang’s California Roll Copycat
This tastes as good as any restaurant-made or store-bought California roll. Plus, it’s one of the easiest sushi recipes for when you’re first learning. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are best described as a delicious cross between mozzarella sticks and jalapeño poppers. Make them at home and you’ll see! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Popeyes Macaroni & Cheese Copycat
My sons always say I’m the best mom in the world when I make this creamy mac ‘n’ cheese perfection. Does it get any better than that? —Heidi Fleek, Hamburg, PA
Culver’s Wisconsin Cheese Curds Copycat
These beer-battered cheese curds are the ultimate in delicious comfort food. Some folks like to serve them with ranch dressing, ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping. —Katie Rose, Pewaukee, WI
Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat
Olive Garden breadsticks are the best breadsticks around. Now, you can have them at your fingertips, thanks to this copycat recipe! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Country Kitchen Chicken & Waffles Copycat
My first experience with this dish sent my taste buds into orbit. I first made this chicken and waffles recipe into appetizers, but we all love them as a main course too. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, MO
Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Copycat
When I’m dining out, crab rangoons are one of my go-to dishes. I decided to create a better-for-you version at home. —Emily Higgins, Wingdale, NY
Bakers Square Coconut Cream Pie Copycat
When I whip up a toasted coconut cream pie, my family goes wild and the pie vanishes. —Darlene Bartos, Shoreview, MN
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Copycat
We love the breadsticks we get hot from the oven at our local pizza parlor. Now I can serve that same wonderful goodness at home. —Heather Bates, Athens, ME
Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Copycat
Breaded chicken, bacon and roasted red peppers are just a few ingredients that make this copycat Olive Garden carbonara recipe so flavorful. Pair it with salad and breadsticks like you would at the restaurant! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha Copycat
You can easily indulge in a coffeehouse-quality drink at home anytime. With whipped cream and a butterscotch drizzle, this mocha treat will perk up even the sleepiest person at the table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Hard Rock Cafe Original Legendary Burger Copycat
Every family has a burger of choice, and this is ours. It’s stacked tall with bacon and crunchy onion rings. —Paula Homer, Nampa, ID
Maggiano’s Johnny’s Carbonara Copycat
I learned on my culinary internship in Tuscany that real Italian cuisine is simpler than you think! This carbonara is quick, simple and delicious, just the way they like it in Italy. —Lauren Brien-Wooster, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Little Caesar’s Pretzel Crust Pizza
This copycat Little Caesar’s recipe will have you saying, “Pizza, pizza!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Sonic Chili Cheese Tots Copycat
Playing with food is loads of fun when you have Tater Tots and taco toppings. Let kids build their own for smiles all around. —Eleanor Mielke, Mitchell, SD
Portillo’s Italian Beef Sandwich Copycat
I have fond memories of my mother in the kitchen preparing her amazing beef dip sandwiches. They always made our house smell like an Old World Italian restaurant. And as good as the aroma was, somehow the taste was even better! Set out a jar of giardiniera for spooning on top. —Kira Vosk, Milwaukee
McDonald’s Shamrock Shake Copycat
Save a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies for this creamy milkshake that’s fun for kids and adults too. —Shauna Sever, San Francisco
The Cheesecake Factory Chicken Madeira Copycat
Skip the wait time and make this bestselling Cheesecake Factory menu item at home. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Maggiano’s Shrimp Scampi Copycat
A touch more lemon helped me trim the calories in our favorite shrimp scampi recipe. For those who want to indulge, pass around the Parmesan. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, MA
Rock Bottom Cajun Pasta Copycat
I’m originally from Louisiana, where my grandma spoke Cajun French as she taught me her spicy chicken spaghetti. —Brenda Melancon, McComb, MS
Chipotle Carnitas Copycat
We shared these flavor-packed tacos with friends from church who came over to help us move. They’re so good, I put them on my blog, manilaspoon.com! The slow cooker makes this recipe extra easy, and I love that whenever I make it, I’m reminded of the wonderful people back in Michigan. —Abigail Raines, Hamden, CT
The Cheesecake Factory Steak Diane Copycat
This copycat Cheesecake Factory steak Diane recipe goes perfectly with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Red Robin Burnin’ Love Burger Copycat
On a whim, we mixed homemade jalapeño jam into ground beef patties, then topped the burgers with caramelized onions and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Fabulous! —Becky Mollenkamp, St. Louis
Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Copycat
I love their crunchy, citrusy salad so much that once I made my husband drive an hour to the nearest Applebee’s restaurant just so I could eat it! It was time to come up with my own version. I’m completely happy with the results—and my husband is too! Find more of my recipes at my blog, mandysrecipeboxblog.com. —Mandy Bird, Holbrook, ID
PF Chang’s Pad Thai Copycat
This is a simple pad thai loaded with crisp vegetables and zesty flavor. It’s quick, simple and fresh-tasting. —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia
Panera Bread Mac and Cheese Copycat
The creamy, cheesy shells in each bite of Panera mac ‘n’ cheese are hard to stop eating. Make it at home and you can have a whole pot to yourself! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Red Robin Chili Chili Cheese Fries Copycat
The delicious chili goes together in minutes and then cooks while you run errands. The only way to make it even better is to pour it over crisp french fries and sprinkle with cheese. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, TX
Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Copycat
This savory copycat Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole recipe will be your new favorite brunch item. Serve it with bacon and eggs for a well-rounded breakfast! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Waffle House Regular Waffle Copycat
These melt-in-your-mouth waffles are so tender that you can skip butter and syrup, but why would you want to? —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
California Pizza Kitchen Roasted Artichoke & Spinach Pizza Copycat
When I have garlic oil in my pantry, I swap it for regular olive oil. The garlic adds a little something without being overpowering. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, OR
Texas Roadhouse Fried Pickles Copycat
Like deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this unfried version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then baked until crispy. Dip them with ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget. —Nick Iverson, Denver
Cracker Barrel Meat Loaf Copycat
Crushed Ritz crackers make this copycat Cracker Barrel meat loaf recipe a winner. Use a casserole dish when baking to catch all the juices! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chili’s Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Copycat
Bake up the ultimate shareable cookie. For variety, replace the chocolate chips with an equal quantity of M&M’s or chocolate chunks. Or go super fancy by mixing the chocolate chips and pecans into the dough, then gently folding in 1-1/2 cups fresh raspberries. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
