37 Reasons You’ll Want To Pass On Takeout Tonight

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37 Reasons You’ll Want To Pass On Takeout Tonight

Sometimes, the routine of ordering takeout loses its charm. Here are 37 compelling reasons to pass on it tonight. Discover the freedom to create a meal exactly to your liking, experiment with new recipes, and relish the simple pleasure of a homemade dinner that beats the predictability of takeout! Not to mention, you’ll save money, too!

Overhead shot of a bowl of shredded beef birria with cilantro and chopped onions.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Char Siu

Sliced char siu pork with lettuce leaves.
Char Siu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Char Siu, with its sweet roasted flavor, is a typical takeout fare. Skip the delivery tonight and savor the satisfaction of crafting these succulent Chinese BBQ pork strips at home. From the caramelized glaze to the tender meat, you’ll relish the authenticity and control over the ingredients that homemade Char Siu offers. Plus, impress your palate and dinner guests with a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

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

Put down that takeout menu and opt for Beef Bulgogi Bowls instead. The thinly sliced marinated beef, balanced with veggies and rice, creates a wholesome and savory meal. Enjoy the freshness and tailor the spice level to your liking, all while avoiding the mystery ingredients often found in delivered dishes. Whip up a batch of these bowls for a satisfying dinner that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your evening by passing on takeout and preparing Camarones a la Diabla at home. This Mexican dish featuring devilishly spicy shrimp is a fiery alternative to your usual go-to order. With full control over the heat level, you can customize it to suit your palate. Enjoy the bold flavors and revel in the simplicity of cooking up a dish that packs a punch, right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diablaof a homemade meal that breaks the routine.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Beef Yakisoba

Beef yakisoba noodles with veggies and pickled ginger.
Beef Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Give takeout a break and embrace the simplicity of Beef Yakisoba. This Japanese stir-fry noodle dish, featuring savory beef and crisp vegetables, is a quick and flavorful alternative. Enjoy the convenience of whipping up a pleasing meal in your kitchen, customized to your taste preferences. With no delivery time or mystery ingredients, Beef Yakisoba allows you to enjoy a homemade Asian-inspired delight with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yakisoba

Burmese Garlic Noodles

Low angle shot of a plate of burmese garlic noodles.
Burmese Garlic Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Step away from the takeout menu and delve into the world of Burmese Garlic Noodles. This dish, with its aromatic blend of garlic-infused noodles, offers a tantalizing experience. Customize the spice level to your liking and relish the control over ingredients that homemade cooking provides. Skip the delivery wait and enjoy the rich flavors of Burmese cuisine, right in the comfort of your own home.
Get the Recipe: Burmese Garlic Noodles

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Break free from the takeout routine and savor the bold flavors of Gochujang Chicken. This Korean-inspired dish, featuring a spicy and slightly sweet glaze, is a delightful departure from standard fare. With control over the spice level, you can tailor the dish to suit your palate perfectly. Revel in the joy of homemade cooking and treat yourself to a meal that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavors.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Skip the takeout tonight and opt for the robust flavors of Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. This Mexican dish, with its garlic-infused shrimp, is a savory and satisfying choice. Enjoy the simplicity of preparing this flavorful dish at home, avoiding the wait and potential disappointments that can come with delivery. Revel in the authenticity and relish the control over ingredients that homemade Camarones al Mojo de Ajo provides.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Chicken Enchiladas

Low angle shot of chicken enchiladas on a plate with salad.
Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Say goodbye to takeout mediocrity and welcome the savory goodness of homemade Chicken Enchiladas. These rolled tortillas filled with tender chicken and smothered in flavorful sauce offer a comforting meal. Customize the spice level to your liking and relish the joy of preparing a classic Mexican dish in the comfort of your kitchen. Skip the takeout and enjoy the authenticity of homemade Chicken Enchiladas tonight.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas

Crispy Beef

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

Trade the takeout container for a skillet and savor the crispy of homemade Crispy Beef. This Chinese-inspired dish, with its crunchy beef strips coated in a flavorful sauce, is a texture-rich alternative. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting this crispy creation at home, avoiding the potential sogginess that can come with delivered dishes. Spice up your dinner experience and relish the simplicity of cooking up Crispy Beef in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Beef

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Put away the takeout menu and embrace the simplicity of Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. This Filipino dish, featuring tender chicken in a savory and slightly tangy sauce, is a convenient alternative. With the Instant Pot’s efficiency, you can enjoy the flavors of slow-cooked adobo without the long wait. Say goodbye to delivery delays and dive into the comfort of preparing a classic Filipino dish in the convenience of your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Grilled Flank Steak

Sliced flank steak with chili butter.
Grilled Flank Steak. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Give takeout a rest and fire up the grill for Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter. This delicious dish, with its smoky char and spicy kick, offers a flavor-packed alternative to delivered meals. Enjoy the simplicity of grilling up a steak that’s perfectly seasoned and cooked to your liking. Skip the delivery wait and treat yourself to the satisfaction of a homemade meal featuring succulent flank steak and a kick of chili-infused butter.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your evening by saying no to takeout and preparing Harissa Chicken at home. This North African-inspired dish, featuring bold and aromatic harissa spice, offers a flavorful alternative. With the control over spice levels, you can tailor the dish to your liking. Skip the delivery wait and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a meal that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors, right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Step away from the takeout routine and savor the bold flavors of Hoisin Beef. This Chinese-inspired dish, featuring a rich and savory hoisin sauce, offers a delightful departure from the ordinary. With the simplicity of homemade cooking, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the wait. Customize the dish to your taste preferences and revel in the joy of crafting a flavorful and authentic Hoisin Beef right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Instant Pot Country Ribs

Country pork ribs on a plate next to an instant pot.
Instant Pot Country Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Put down the takeout menu and opt for the hearty goodness of Instant Pot Country Ribs. This dish, with its tender and flavorful ribs, is a satisfying alternative. With the Instant Pot’s efficiency, you can enjoy the flavors of slow-cooked ribs without the long wait. Skip the delivery delays and dive into the comfort of preparing a classic rib dish in the convenience of your kitchen. Say goodbye to takeout and savor the authenticity of homemade Country Ribs.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Country Ribs

Instant Pot Kalua Pork

Low angle shot of kalua pork on a white plate with pineapple and pepper chunks.
Instant Pot Kalua Pork. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Break free from the takeout cycle and indulge in the smoky flavors of Instant Pot Kalua Pork. This Hawaiian dish, featuring slow-cooked and shredded pork, is a savory departure from the ordinary. With the Instant Pot’s efficiency, you can enjoy the rich taste of kalua pork without the lengthy preparation time. Skip the delivery wait and savor the satisfaction of crafting a Hawaiian classic right in your kitchen. Say aloha to takeout and aloha to homemade Kalua Pork.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Kalua Pork

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Low angle shot of chicken shawarma on a white platter with harissa paste and tomatoes and cucumbers in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Skip the takeout tonight and savor the aromatic delight of Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish, with its flavorful and spiced chicken, offers a convenient alternative. With the Instant Pot’s efficiency, you can enjoy the taste of slow-cooked shawarma without the long wait. Say goodbye to delivery delays and dive into the comfort of preparing a classic dish in the convenience of your kitchen. Treat yourself to homemade Chicken Shawarma tonight.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Whole chicken with lemons.
Instant Pot Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Say no to takeout and embrace the simplicity of Instant Pot Whole Chicken. This dish, featuring a perfectly cooked whole chicken, is a convenient alternative. With the Instant Pot’s efficiency, you can enjoy the flavors of slow-roasted chicken without the long wait. Say goodbye to delivery delays and dive into the comfort of preparing a classic dish in the convenience of your kitchen. Treat yourself to the satisfaction of homemade Whole Chicken tonight.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Korean Bulgogi Tacos

Horizontal shot of 3 korean tacos: corn tortillas filled with sliced steak, kimchi and pico de gallo salsa, and chopped cilantro. In the background are lime wedges, sliced red cabbage, and cilantro leaves.
Korean Bulgogi Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Trade the takeout container for tortillas and savor the fusion delight of Korean Bulgogi Tacos. This dish, featuring marinated beef, crisp vegetables, and a touch of Korean flair, offers a flavorful alternative. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting this fusion creation at home, avoiding the potential sogginess that can come with delivered tacos. Elevate your dinner experience and relish the simplicity of cooking up Korean Bulgogi Tacos in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Korean Bulgogi Tacos

Kung Pao Chicken

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

Skip the takeout and savor the homemade goodness of Kung Pao Chicken, where each bite delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors. You control the heat, ensuring a dish that suits your taste buds without compromising on authenticity. Plus, you get to enjoy the satisfaction of creating a classic Chinese favorite in the comfort of your kitchen. No mystery ingredients, just a delicious meal crafted to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Lamb Kofta Kebabs

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

Tonight, give takeout a pass and embrace the rich, spiced allure of homemade Lamb Kofta Kebabs. With each bite, experience the blend of aromatic herbs and perfectly seasoned lamb, creating a flavor symphony that takeout simply can’t match. Crafting these kebabs at home not only guarantees freshness but also allows you to tweak the spice levels, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the subtle art of balancing flavors. Say goodbye to generic, and hello to a personalized kebab experience.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Kofta Kebabs

Miso Glazed Salmon

Miso glazed salmon on a plate with rice and spinach.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Why settle for takeout when you can indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth perfection of Miso Glazed Salmon prepared in your kitchen? The homemade version lets you control the quality of the fish and ensures a precise balance of sweet and savory miso glaze. With minimal effort, you’ll achieve a restaurant-quality dish that’s not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to the often-oily offerings from your local takeout joint. Elevate your dinner game without the delivery wait.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Pancit Bihon

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ditch the takeout box and opt for the Filipino comfort of Pancit Bihon, a noodle dish bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. Crafting it at home allows you to personalize the medley of vegetables, meats, and noodles to suit your preferences. With the bonus of leftovers for the next day, this homemade delight not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a fulfilling cooking experience that’s hard to come by with takeout.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Mochiko Chicken

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

Step away from the takeout menu and dive into the crispy, sticky goodness of Mochiko Chicken. By making it at home, you ensure that each bite is perfectly coated in the sweet and savory glaze, delivering a flavor explosion that takeout often falls short of achieving. Take control of the frying time to achieve that ideal crunch, and relish the satisfaction of creating a Japanese-inspired delicacy right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice in a blue and white striped bowl.
Pork Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Opt for a homemade twist over takeout with Pork Fried Rice, where you dictate the ingredients and flavors. Make it as hearty or as light as you desire, and revel in the simplicity of a one-pan wonder that’s ready in no time. Plus, with the option to use leftover rice, you not only reduce food waste but also get a better texture in your fried rice. Say goodbye to the greasy takeout container and hello to a personalized, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Beef Birria

Overhead shot of a bowl of shredded beef birria with cilantro and chopped onions.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, veer away from the takeout norm and relish the tantalizing richness of homemade Beef Birria. This Mexican classic, cooked to perfection in your kitchen, offers a depth of flavor that takeout tacos can’t quite capture. With the freedom to choose your preferred cut of meat and spice levels, you’re in control of every delicious element. Enjoy the comfort of a warm, hearty meal without the wait for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Shrimp Yakisoba

Shrimp yakisoba on a plate.
Shrimp Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Resist the urge for takeout and whip up a batch of Shrimp Yakisoba that’s bursting with savory Japanese flavors. In your kitchen, you decide the ratio of noodles to veggies to shrimp, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish. Forget soggy noodles and bland flavors – with homemade Yakisoba, you’re in charge of the work, creating a stir-fried masterpiece that leaves takeout in the dust. Savor the taste of Japan without leaving your home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yakisoba

Sweet and Sour Tofu

Low angle shot of a bowl of sweet and sour tofu.
Sweet and Sour Tofu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Say no to the predictable takeout routine and embrace the homemade charm of Sweet and Sour Tofu. With this dish, you control the tofu-to-vegetable ratio and fine-tune the sweet and tangy sauce to your liking. Experience the joy of a healthier, homemade version that avoids the excessive oil and high sodium content often found in takeout. Elevate your tofu game with a dish that’s both satisfying and customizable.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Tofu

Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.
Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, break free from the monotony of takeout and dive into the bold flavors of homemade Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. By making it yourself, you can tailor the spice level to your taste, ensuring a satisfying kick without overwhelming the dish. Revel in the freedom to load up on your favorite veggies and enjoy the freshness that homemade stir-fry brings to the table. Upgrade your Thai food game without the need for a delivery app.
Get the Recipe: Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

Ramen Fried Chicken

Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.
Ramen Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Resist the temptation of takeout and savor the homemade indulgence of Ramen Fried Chicken. This dish not only boasts the crispy perfection of fried chicken but also introduces a unique twist with the addition of ramen noodles. Crafting it at home allows you to control the spice level and create a crispy exterior that takeout can’t match. Say goodbye to the predictable and hello to a delightful fusion of flavors in the comfort of your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, give takeout a rest and relish the aromatic delights of homemade Thai Fried Rice. With each bite, experience the marriage of fragrant jasmine rice, bold Thai flavors, and a medley of fresh vegetables. By making it yourself, you have the power to customize the spice level and choose your preferred protein. Enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s a cut above the ordinary takeout fare.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

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

Bypass the takeout joint and embrace the crunchy satisfaction of homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Crafting these wings in your kitchen lets you control the seasoning, ensuring the perfect balance of salt and pepper. Say farewell to soggy wings in a cardboard box and hello to a crispy, flavorful experience that puts you in charge. Elevate your wing game without the wait for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Overhead shot of a bowl of noodles with vegetables and thai peanut sauce.
Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, skip the takeout routine and relish the nutty goodness of homemade Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. Crafting this dish at home allows you to tailor the spice level and adjust the thickness of the peanut sauce to your liking. With each forkful, savor the rich, satisfying flavors that come from fresh ingredients rather than a takeout container. Elevate your noodle game without the need for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Szechuan Shrimp

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

Pass on the takeout and savor the spice-packed allure of homemade Szechuan Shrimp. By making it yourself, you control the heat level and guarantee a dish that’s perfectly balanced between spicy and savory. Enjoy the succulence of plump shrimp coated in a mouthwatering sauce, all in the comfort of your kitchen. Say goodbye to predictable takeout and hello to a flavorful, homemade experience.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Thai Turkey Meatballs

Thai turkey meatballs on a platter with red curry dipping sauce.
Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, break away from the takeout routine and indulge in the homemade goodness of Thai Turkey Meatballs. By crafting these yourself, you dictate the level of spice and ensure a perfect blend of Thai-inspired flavors. Experience the joy of each bite, knowing that you’ve created a healthier alternative to the often-heavy takeout options. Elevate your meatball game without waiting for the delivery driver.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs

Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Low angle shot of a plate of vegetarian dan dan noodles with broccoli.
Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Give takeout a miss and indulge in the homemade charm of Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles. By creating this dish in your kitchen, you have control over the spice level and can load up on your favorite vegetables. Say farewell to generic takeout containers and hello to a satisfying, plant-based noodle experience that’s both delicious and customizable. Upgrade your noodle game without the wait for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Dan Dan Noodles

Thai Chicken Curry

Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tonight, opt for the comforting embrace of homemade Thai Chicken Curry over the predictability of takeout. Crafting it yourself allows you to choose your preferred protein and control the spice level, creating a curry that suits your taste buds perfectly. Enjoy the rich coconut milk base and aromatic Thai spices, all in the convenience of your kitchen. Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to a personalized curry experience.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Veggie Pad Thai

Low angle shot of a light blue bowl of pad thai.
Veggie Pad Thai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Resist the lure of takeout and revel in the homemade delight of Veggie Pad Thai. By making it yourself, you have the freedom to load up on your favorite vegetables and customize the spice level to your liking. Experience the freshness and vibrancy that homemade Pad Thai brings to the table, without the need for a delivery driver. Upgrade your noodle game with a satisfying, vegetable-packed twist.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pad Thai

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