I Was Over Takeout—These 19 Copycat Recipes Saved Our Budget

Somewhere between the third overpriced delivery fee and the second soggy box of fries, enough was enough. Those 19 clever copycat recipes stepped in like the backup plan that actually worked. Not only did they cover the cravings, they kept the budget from waving a white flag. Suddenly, the kitchen wasn’t just where the snacks lived; it was the new go-to.

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re missing a fast food fix, this has all the flavors you love in a bowl. Copycat Big Mac Salad brings together crisp lettuce and a familiar dressing without the enormous price of takeout. It’s like having the iconic sandwich refreshed as a healthy option. A great way to enjoy fast food vibes at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fans of restaurant shrimp appetizers will love this dish. Bang Bang Shrimp offers the perfect balance of tender shrimp with bold flavors that many people crave for dinner or as a starter. It’s great for recreating a restaurant feel without leaving your house. Cheaper than takeout, it’s simple to enjoy this anytime you want.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Taking a favorite from late-night drive-thrus, this dish is perfect for when you want comforting food at home. Crunchwrap Supreme layers all your favorites in a crispy wrap that feels like a splurge but is budget-friendly. It’s much cheaper while giving the satisfaction of a fully-loaded handheld meal.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Dubai Chocolate

Close-up of sliced dessert bars with layers of chocolate, crumbly filling, and green topping, garnished with chopped pistachios.
Dubai Chocolate. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re a fan of rich desserts, this treat transports you to sweet indulgence. Dubai Chocolate brings something unique that feels a bit like traveling through its bold and luxurious flavors. It’s the dessert you didn’t know you needed for saving both time and money. Perfect if you’re tired of overspending at bakeries for similar options.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These biscuits are packed with flavor without the restaurant side price. Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits make it easy to enjoy a popular favorite made fresh at home. It’s ideal for a dinner side or snack, and they’re way more affordable than buying them at the restaurant. They taste like a treat if you want something quick and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Merging two fan favorites, this option skips the drive-thru line. Big Mac Crunchwrap brings together a crispy wrap and the flavors you would expect in one mouthful. It’s ideal for recreating a unique fast-food fusion at home. Perfect for cutting time and money spent on daily takeout.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A restaurant-style burger experience without waiting at your favorite spot. Copycat Smash Burger gets that crispy edge and juicy finish that everyone looks for in a classic smashburger. It’s easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Perfect when you want to skip the expense of ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re a fan of cookie butter, this dessert will be your new go-to. Biscoff Ice Cream mixes creaminess with the distinct cookie flavor you can’t get enough of. It’s much cheaper than heading to an ice cream shop for a scoop. Great for making everyday dessert a little more memorable at home.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table.
Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy meals don’t have to lack bold flavor, and this one proves it. Cheese Quesadilla melts gooey goodness into an everyday comfort food that’s simple yet satisfying. Perfect for when you need something quick on a busy night without ordering. A favorite for kids and adults alike, it’s a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth.
Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for flavorful and quick meals, this dish makes a good choice. Tofu Fried Rice combines the budget-friendly twist of homemade options with the satisfaction of takeout favorites. It’s an easy way to substitute pricier restaurant meals for something just as filling. Great for skipping the wait and enjoying it right away.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skip the assembly line and recreate this side dish at home with ease. Copycat Chipotle Black Beans brings everything you like about this hearty choice without the extra cost. It’s simple and makes a great base for bowls, wraps, or tacos. Perfect for enjoying Chipotle at home without a daily splurge.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chicken Tikka Masala

A close-up of chicken tikka masala served on rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and naan on the side.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you love creamy Indian dishes, this option is rich and full of flavor. Chicken Tikka Masala feels like ordering from your favorite spot, but it works without stretching your budget. It’s a dinner that’s great for sharing, and it’s much cheaper than going out. Perfect for switching up weeknight meals with something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple way to recreate a side you reach for often at burrito places. Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa matches all those familiar flavors and adds that zing you expect. It’s ideal for bowls, tacos, or just as a snack with chips. No need to pay extra for this anymore when you can make it at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

A bowl of rice topped with broccoli, chicken, red peppers, green onions, and sesame seeds, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Those takeout noodle dishes can be tempting, but this one makes them budget-friendly. Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry balances savory flavors that work for any meal without costing a fortune. It’s fast and satisfying for busy nights. A great way to skip pricey orders and still enjoy something tasty.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe

Enjoy these delectable cookies topped with white frosting, chocolate chips, and small cookie dough pieces—a perfect Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie recipe.
Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’ve ever wanted those bakery-sized cookies without the high price, this one delivers. Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe gives you all the soft and chewy goodness you’d expect but made fresh at home. Skip buying single cookies and save money with this option. Perfect for dessert or sharing during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe

Mexican Rice

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic side dish that pairs well with nearly any meal. Mexican Rice brings out those flavors you often order without the extra charge of takeout. It’s great for bowls, wraps, or enjoying on its own. Quick to make and perfect for family meals at home.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You don’t have to visit restaurants to enjoy bold pasta dishes anymore. Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta combines spices and richness in a way that’s unique and affordable. Great for weeknight dinners when you want something filling without ordering out. It works for an easy upgrade to homemade meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When takeout pizza isn’t in the budget, this gives you the flavors you crave. Mushroom Pizza mixes fresh ingredients into a homemade take on a classic favorite. It’s a cheaper alternative to expensive delivery options. Customize it to match your usual pizza night without the restaurant markup.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Southern comfort food just got a little closer to home. Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings feels like ordering from the restaurant but saves money along the way. It’s warm, filling, and makes a great family-style meal without needing to wait in line. Perfect for making cozy dinners affordable.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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