11 Copycat Recipes That Are Shockingly Better Than the Original
I love a good restaurant meal and fast food drinks, but nothing beats making my favorites at home, especially when they turn out even better. These copycat recipes skip the unnecessary fillers and bring out the real flavors, all while saving time and money. Once you try them, you might never go back to the original.
Starbucks Copycat White Chocolate Mocha
This creamy white chocolate mocha brings the rich, smooth flavor of the coffee shop favorite right to your kitchen. The homemade version balances espresso, milk, and white chocolate without being overly sweet or artificial. It’s quick to make and perfect for mornings when you want something special without the extra cost. After one sip, you’ll see why making it at home is the better choice.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat White Chocolate Mocha
Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese brings the creamy, cheesy goodness of the restaurant version straight to your table. With a blend of cheeses and a crispy, golden topping, it delivers the perfect combination of smooth and crunchy textures. The homemade version skips unnecessary fillers, leaving you with a rich, flavorful dish that outshines the original. Once you make this at home, there’s no reason to order it at the restaurant again.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
Chicken Divan
This comforting dish combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying meal that’s easy to put together. The homemade version keeps the flavors bold without being overly salty or heavy. It’s an easy way to turn simple ingredients into a hearty dish that works for weeknights or special occasions. After making it yourself, you won’t miss the frozen or restaurant versions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan
Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade
This refreshing drink balances sweet cherry and tangy lime for the perfect thirst-quencher. The homemade version is fresher and more flavorful, without the artificial taste of the fast-food version. It’s quick to mix up and makes a great addition to summer cookouts or any time you need a pick-me-up. After one sip, you might skip the drive-thru next time.
Get the Recipe: Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This creamy, comforting soup is packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, flavorful broth. The homemade version gives you a thicker, heartier soup without the watered-down consistency of the restaurant version. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s great for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. Once you make it yourself, you won’t feel the need to order it out again.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat
This soft, buttery lemon loaf brings bold citrus flavor with a perfectly sweet glaze on top. The homemade version is fresher, moister, and has a more pronounced lemon taste than the coffee shop version. It’s simple to bake and keeps well, making it a great option for breakfast or an afternoon treat. After trying this, you’ll never need to add a slice to your coffee order again.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This homestyle meatloaf is juicy, packed with flavor, and topped with a tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The homemade version cuts out unnecessary fillers, leaving you with a better texture and taste than the restaurant version. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or family dinners. After trying this at home, there’s no reason to wait in line for it again.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
This creamy blended drink delivers the smooth vanilla flavor you love without the extra syrups and additives. The homemade version is just as thick and refreshing, with a real vanilla taste that’s even better than the original. It’s quick to make and works as a fun treat any time of day. Once you see how easy it is, you won’t feel the need to order it out anymore.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
McDonald’s Mango Pineapple Smoothie
This tropical smoothie blends real mango and pineapple for a naturally sweet, refreshing drink. The homemade version skips the artificial flavors, making it taste fresher and more balanced than the fast-food version. It’s quick to blend and perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a light treat. Once you make it yourself, you won’t miss the drive-thru version.
Get the Recipe: McDonald’s Mango Pineapple Smoothie
Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
This sandwich brings together juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese for a bold, satisfying meal. The homemade version gives you the same smoky, slightly spicy flavors as the original but without the extra grease. It’s quick to put together and makes a great lunch or dinner option. After trying it, you’ll see why making it at home is the better choice.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
Bang Bang Shrimp
This crispy shrimp dish is coated in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. The homemade version lets you control the spice level while keeping the shrimp light and crispy. It’s an easy way to bring a restaurant favorite straight to your table without the extra oil. Once you make it at home, you’ll realize it’s even better than the one you order out.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp