Why call for takeout when you can whip up something even better right at home? These 17 homemade meals are here to show you just how scrumptious home cooking can be. Each recipe is designed to outshine your go-to takeout spots, promising flavors that are both comforting and dazzlingly delicious. Who knew staying in could taste so good?
Dan Dan Noodles
When you’re craving something that packs a punch with spice and flavor but doesn’t leave you reaching for the takeout menu, consider whipping up some homemade Dan Dan Noodles. This classic dish brings a combo of heat, nuttiness, and umami that rivals any restaurant version. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick but with a depth of flavor that’s both delicious and reminiscent of your favorite noodle shop.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles
Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Who doesn’t love the crunch of a perfectly golden spring roll? With Air Fryer Spring Rolls, you can achieve that irresistible crunch without the hassle of deep frying. This at-home version lets you fill them with your favorite veggies or proteins, all while being a tad healthier thanks to the air fryer magic. It’s a fun way to bring one of those beloved appetizer favorites into your kitchen without fuss. Goodbye greasy takeout, hello crispy, homemade goodness!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Szechuan Shrimp
If you’re in the mood for something spicy and loaded with flavor, Szechuan Shrimp has got you covered. This dish is all about that bold Szechuan pepper flavor that tingles your palate in the best way. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up at home, offering a fresh and spicy alternative to the usual carry-out option. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just treating yourself, this shrimp dish proves you don’t need to step outside for top-notch flavors.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp
Char Siu
Sometimes, only a sweet and tangy pork dish will do, and that’s where Char Siu comes in. This barbecued pork is a staple in Chinese cuisine for a reason. It’s tender, rich, and has that distinctively sweet glaze that you might think is restaurant-only territory, but nope, you can get it right in your kitchen. It’s the perfect addition to any meal where you’re looking to impress, whether it’s sliced atop noodles or just enjoyed on its own.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu
Singapore Noodles
For a dish that brings a pop of color and a heap of flavor to your dinner table, Singapore Noodles doesn’t disappoint. This stir-fried noodle dish is light, aromatic, and packed with veggies and whatever protein you’ve got on hand. It’s a great way to beat back those cravings for something spicy and just a bit tangy, all without calling up your local takeout spot.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles
Air Fryer Pork Belly
If you’re after something crispy on the outside and meltingly tender on the inside, look no further than Air Fryer Pork Belly. This dish offers up all the indulgence of your favorite pork dish with a fraction of the oil. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy those rich flavors. Get ready to slice into something special, perfect by itself or as a decadent addition to pretty much any meal that needs a flavorful boost.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly
Chicken 65
When you desire something that’s spicy, full of flavor, and a bit tangy, Chicken 65 hits all those notes. This dish is a popular bar snack and street food item for a reason. It brings together deep-fried chicken with a punchy spice mix that’s hard to resist. Making it at home allows you to control the heat level while still enjoying all the dynamics of this beloved dish. It’s a surefire way to spice up your dining routine with something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65
Crispy Beef
Looking for a dish that’s both deliciously crunchy and beautifully flavored? Crispy Beef is the answer. This takeout favorite combines the texture of lightly battered beef with a sticky, sweet sauce that clings to every piece. It’s one of those dishes that might seem like a restaurant-only experience, but it’s surprisingly doable at home. Serve it up and watch as dinner becomes the highlight of the day, bringing a little bit of that takeout joy without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef
Air Fryer Orange Chicken
If tangy and sweet is your thing, then Air Fryer Orange Chicken will be a hit in your household. This dish offers up all the citrusy sweetness of your favorite takeout option but with less oil, thanks to the air fryer. It’s a win-win for flavor and texture, providing a homemade alternative that might just become your new go-to. Next time the craving strikes, skip the phone and head straight for your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Instant Pot Spare Ribs
For a dish that falls off the bone and into your heart, Instant Pot Spare Ribs are the way to go. These ribs come out incredibly tender, soaked in a sauce that’s as rich as anything you’d get from your neighborhood BBQ joint. The instant pot does the heavy lifting, transforming what would be a day-long endeavor into a simple, set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Crystal Dumplings
When you’re after something light, delicate, but still delicious, Crystal Dumplings fill that niche perfectly. These translucent dumplings allow the vibrant colors of their vegetable fillings to shine through, making for a visually appealing and delicious bite. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a dim sum favorite from the comfort of your own home, bringing a touch of elegance to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Crystal Dumplings
Fried Pork & Shrimp Wontons
For moments when only a crispy, meaty bite will do, Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons are there to satisfy. These little parcels of joy combine tangy pork and shrimp, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy shell. They’re just the thing for appeasing those deep-fried cravings without leaving your kitchen. Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork & Shrimp Wontons
Sweet and Sour Tofu
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on taste, Sweet and Sour Tofu is a colorful and flavorful dish. This dish proves that tofu can indeed stand up to the bold flavors of sweet and sour sauce, becoming something that’s both delicious and flavorful. It’s a refreshing take on a classic that will keep you coming back for more, offering a wonderful alternative for meatless Mondays or any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Tofu
Chicken Potstickers
For those times when you want a snack that’s a step above the usual, Chicken Potstickers are exactly what you need. These dumplings are pan-fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispy and tender. Filled with tangy chicken, they’re just right for nibbling on their own or as a complement to your meal. Whether you make a big batch to share or keep them all to yourself, these potstickers turn any dining occasion into something a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers
Pork Fried Rice
When you’ve got leftovers but crave something new, Pork Fried Rice can turn yesterday’s meal into today’s feast. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that combines rice with bits of pork and whatever veggies you have on hand, creating something that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s the ultimate in resourceful cooking, proving that great flavors don’t always require a fresh start.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
For a finger-licking favorite that’s both simple and delicious, Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings have got it down. These wings are seasoned just right, delivering a crispy skin and juicy inside. They’re the kind of snack you’ll want on hand for game day, movie night, or just because. Not to mention, making them at home lets you enjoy all that flavor without the greasy aftermath.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Tanghulu
Seeking something sweet with a fun twist? Tanghulu offers a unique take on fruit, coating it in a hard candy shell that’s glossy and wonderful. This traditional street food snack is as fun to make as it is to eat, providing a crunchy contrast to the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s a simple pleasure that brings a bit of whimsy to your dessert options. Next time you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s a little out of the ordinary, remember this wonderful option.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu