15 Copycat Recipes That Impress Even The Originals

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15 Copycat Recipes That Impress Even The Originals

Why go out when you can make your favorite dishes at home? These 15 copycat recipes give the originals a run for their money and are surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re recreating a classic or trying something new, you’ll feel like a pro chef without the fancy apron or the hefty bill. Get ready to impress everyone without ever leaving your kitchen—or dealing with the delivery guy.

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You don’t need a trip to Olive Garden to enjoy a bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup tailored to comfort you at home. Every spoonful brims with tender gnocchi and juicy chicken nestled in a creamy broth. This version hits all the right notes with fresh veggies and a rich texture that’s spot on. Whip up a batch and you might find family and friends asking if you’ve got secret ties to the Italian restaurant chain.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

An open-face NY Steamer sub copycat on a plate with Italian dressing.
Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing the essence of the deli to your kitchen, Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich stacks up with all the robust, meaty flavors you crave. Smoky beef brisket mingles with corned beef, melted provolone, and a tangy mustard spread. The beauty of this sandwich lies in its simplicity, making it an approachable yet authentic experience for any level cook. Lunchtimes just got an upgrade, giving your local sub shop a run for its money.
Get the Recipe: Firehouse NY Steamer Sandwich

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Olive Garden’s staple Pasta e Fagioli Soup can now be relished from the comfort of your own dining table. The harmony of pasta, beans, and ground meat in a savory tomato base makes for a hearty meal that feeds the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, this homemade rendition nails the balance between nourishing and hearty. It’s a family favorite that proves home cooking can rival any establishment’s fare.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Creamy Jalapeno Dip in a bowl with chip nearby.
Creamy Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The sought-after Creamy Jalapeno Dip brings a smack of heat to your appetizer spread, making it the perfect prelude to any main dish. Jalapenos are the stars, providing a kick that’s mellowed by the smooth, creamy base. This dip has the power to turn a simple tortilla chip into a showstopper. Recreate this piquant favorite and watch as it disappears faster than you can say “More, please!”
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins are everything nostalgic about Southern home cooking without leaving your kitchen. These fluffy dumplings paired with tender chicken pieces create a meal that feels like a warm hug. Just right for the days when you need a bit of comfort food, this recipe does not disappoint. It’s so close to the original, even grandma might do a double-take.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Indulge in the sweetness and crunch of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp right in your own home. The candied walnuts add a delicious contrast to the crispy, golden shrimp. Drizzled with a honey-infused sauce, this dish hits all the right notes for a delicious sweet and savory balance. It’s a homemade spin on a takeout classic that might just outdo the box.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Copycat Animal Sauce

Copycat Animal Sauce in a bowl with fries around it.
Copycat Animal Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform your homemade burgers and fries with the tang and flavor of Copycat Animal Sauce. This secret sauce from a famous West Coast burger chain gives any dish a punch of excitement. Its creamy, tangy flavor profile works wonders on practically any sandwich or wrap. Get the satisfaction of restaurant-quality taste right off your stovetop.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Animal Sauce

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sweet, tender, and gently seasoned, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots make a simple side dish that pairs well with just about anything. This recipe mimics the signature southern charm found in Cracker Barrel’s version. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comforts without overshadowing the main course. These glazed carrots might just steal the show at your next family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup in a white round bowl with small handles.
Zuppa Toscana Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those evenings when only a warming bowl of soup will do, Zuppa Toscana Soup answers the call. Filled with savory Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale, it’s a soup that feeds both hunger and spirit. This homemade mimic doesn’t cut corners when it comes to matching the restaurant-quality taste many adore. It’s a testament to how home cooking can echo the sentiments of dining out.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creamy, rich, and loaded with succulent shrimp, Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings a restaurant favorite right to your dining room. This dish masterfully combines a smooth Alfredo sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and seafood. There’s no need for reservations when you can whip up this indulgent pasta dish that rivals the original’s charm. It’s fancy enough for special occasions but easy enough for a weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

The delicious crunch of Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes can now be achieved in your very own kitchen. These morsels are savory, with a hint of sweetness from the shallots and a satisfying texture contrast from the crust. It’s an innovative meal option that gives a new twist to typical pork dishes. Perfect for impressing guests or shaking up your meal routine, these croquettes are a home chef’s dream.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce in a black skillet.
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Who needs a night out when you can create Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce with ease? This creamy concoction wraps pasta in a velvety sauce that’s rich in garlic and cheese flavors. Ideal for creating an Italian-inspired meal at home, it pairs wonderfully with fettuccine, chicken, or even veggies. Master this kitchen staple, and you might swear off jarred sauces for good.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Transform game day snacks with the all-in-one meal appeal of Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Tater tots are crowned with tender slices of steak, melty cheese, and a blend of peppers and onions. When Philly cheesesteak meets tater tots, you get a fusion of flavors that’s hard to beat. Score big with family and friends as they reach for seconds and thirds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish. The meal is set on a white wooden table beside silver cutlery and a floral napkin.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate the comfort of a classic diner at home with Diner Style Salisbury Steak. This hearty entree features ground beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom and onion gravy. It’s a throwback to the days when this dish was a menu staple among American diners. Serve it up with mashed potatoes for the full retro experience without stepping foot outside.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring a bit of Australian-themed restaurant flair into your dining room with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Honey mustard sauce unites with bacon and mushrooms to top off succulent grilled chicken breasts. It’s a unique combination that breaks up the monotony of standard chicken dishes. Chances are this will become a regular request from friends and family alike.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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