17 Takeout-Inspired Dishes That’ll Have You Doing A Double Take

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17 Takeout-Inspired Dishes That’ll Have You Doing A Double Take

Get set for meals that look, smell, and taste suspiciously like your takeout favorites but without any of the extra packaging. These recipes are crafted to bring that “straight-from-the-carton” vibe to your dining room, creating an experience so spot-on your family may assume you’ve gone undercover as a pro chef. Ditch the delivery charges, because this time, it’s all about impressing them with your kitchen skills.

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

A close-up of a hand using chopsticks to lift cooked noodles from a black pan. The noodles are mixed with vegetables and sauce. A small dish is visible in the background.
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Think takeout, but way better – that’s what you’ll feel with Garlic Chili Oil Noodles. A simple dish that brings in the heat and a slight smokiness, it’s the perfect pick for noodle night when you want something new. Packed with all the flavor without the fuss, this dish will make you question why you ever ordered in. It’s one noodle dish that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chili Oil Noodles

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

With Szechuan Shrimp, you’re looking at a dish that’s bold, with that hint of numbing spice that’ll leave you coming back for more. This shrimp dish takes your seafood game to a whole new level without trying too hard. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like it came straight from your favorite spot, minus the delivery charge. Easy to love and even easier to finish.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Pizza Carbonara

A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.
Pizza Carbonara. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Think about your pizza favorites mixed up with an Italian twist, and you’ve got Pizza Carbonara. It’s everything comforting about pizza but reinvented with a creamy, rich touch that feels fancy but doesn’t take itself too seriously. This takeout-inspired meal makes you wonder why you’ve never thought of this combo before. Go ahead, because once isn’t enough for this one.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These Beef Bulgogi Bowls are proof that comfort food can be quick, easy, and full of flavor without any of the hassle. They bring a sweet and savory vibe that feels almost like you ordered from a top-notch Korean spot. You get layers of flavor, all in one bowl, and it’s every bit as good as it sounds. This one’s a game-changer for bowl lovers everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Shrimp tacos on a plate with lime wedges.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Taco night just got a major upgrade with Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos, a spicy, smoky combo that feels like it came straight from a taco truck. These tacos deliver a flavor punch that keeps things fresh and exciting. Once you’ve had them, regular tacos might feel a bit underwhelming. It’s a simple dish, yet it brings a whole new vibe to your usual taco lineup.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you want wings that don’t skimp on flavor, Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are where it’s at. They’ve got just the right amount of crisp and seasoning to make you feel like you’ve hit the wing jackpot. These wings are made for anyone who loves a good snack without the grease overload. Grab one, and just see if you can stop at that.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Fish tacos with shredded cabbage and cilantro lime crema.
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Perfectly seasoned with a refreshing twist, Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema feel like a beachside taco stand dream. This one’s got the crunch and the creaminess all in one, making it ideal for casual dinners with a little flair. It’s a bright, light choice that still brings full flavor. You’ll be saying, “I could totally eat this every day.”
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.
Cajun Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Taking a classic up a notch, Cajun Shrimp and Grits combine bold flavors with a cozy, comforting feel. This dish brings all the heartiness you expect, but with a little kick that keeps it interesting. Perfect for when you want something familiar yet exciting, it’s a meal that keeps you coming back. Let’s just say, seconds aren’t optional here.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Spicy Soba Noodle Salad

Chopsticks holding a portion of spicy peanut noodles with assorted vegetables and cilantro on a woven mat background.
Spicy Soba Noodle Salad. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Light, fresh, and with a hint of heat, Spicy Soba Noodle Salad has that takeout vibe but with a homemade touch. It’s the perfect combo of crunchy and savory that’ll make your lunch or dinner feel like a treat. This salad stands out by keeping things simple yet flavorful. Get ready to rethink what a noodle salad can do – this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Soba Noodle Salad

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Lamb kofta kebabs on a wooden board with  fresh herbs and vegetables.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Lamb Kofta Kebabs bring a taste of smoky, spiced goodness straight to your plate, all without needing a trip to the grill. These kebabs have that rewarding, meaty flavor that makes you forget it’s all homemade. They’re easy to love and even easier to eat, giving you all the feels of a backyard barbecue. Get ready to add this to your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If fried chicken is your thing, Mochiko Chicken will blow your mind with its crispy outside and tender inside. It’s got that irresistible texture and flavor that make it a top choice when you’re craving takeout. This dish is simple yet big on taste, making it a new go-to for anyone with a chicken craving. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly request.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Teriyaki Salmon Noodles

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and chunks of salmon in a skillet, with a fork lifting a portion.
Teriyaki Salmon Noodles. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

For anyone who loves a good teriyaki hit, Teriyaki Salmon Noodles are where it’s at, combining a rich glaze with tender salmon. This one feels like a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up anytime. It’s got all the flavors you’d expect from takeout but with a fresh, lighter twist. Salmon and noodles just became your new favorite combo.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Salmon Noodles

Crispy Beef

Low angle shot of crispy beef on a plate.
Crispy Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Say goodbye to soggy takeout with Crispy Beef, a dish that keeps its crunch and packs all the right flavors. It’s everything you want in a quick meal, minus the greasiness, and perfect for when you want something rewarding. You’ll love how it hits that savory-sweet note without being too heavy. It’s like your favorite Chinese dish just got a makeover.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving taquitos? Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos bring that crispy goodness without the extra oil, making them a guilt-free win. They’re easy to snack on, and you’ll feel like you’re treating yourself to the best kind of fast food. Great for parties or solo nights, these taquitos make it hard to settle for just a couple.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Kerala Fish Curry

Fish curry in an earthenware baking dish.
Kerala Fish Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bringing a unique flavor profile, Kerala Fish Curry is a dish that transports you with its bold, exciting spices. It’s packed with rich, savory notes that make each bite feel like an adventure. Perfect for when you want to shake up your dinner routine, this curry keeps things fresh and flavorful. Forget delivery; this one’s got takeout beat by a mile.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry

Kung Pao Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re a fan of Chinese takeout, Kung Pao Chicken brings all the classic flavors you crave, plus a little extra kick. This dish doesn’t hold back, offering a hearty, bold experience that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s both simple and flavorful, with a texture that keeps you going back for more. Once you start, you won’t want to stop.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Korean Hot Dogs

Overhead shot of Korean hot dogs on parchment paper.
Korean Hot Dogs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When hot dogs meet Korean flair, you get Korean Hot Dogs – the ultimate street food treat you didn’t know you needed. They’re fun, loaded with flavor, and will have you rethinking what a hot dog can be. Great for gatherings or just because, these hot dogs are hard to resist. Once you try them, regular hot dogs might seem a bit, well, plain.
Get the Recipe: Korean Hot Dogs

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