11 Copycat Recipes That Can Save You Serious Cash
Eating out adds up fast, but making restaurant favorites at home is easier than you think and way cheaper. I’ve rounded up copycat recipes that let you skip the takeout bill without giving up the flavors you love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate everything from fast-food classics to coffee shop treats right in your own kitchen.
Starbucks Copycat White Chocolate Mocha
Making this at home means skipping the high price of a coffee shop visit while still getting a smooth and creamy white chocolate drink. It comes together quickly with ingredients that are easy to keep on hand, making it perfect for busy mornings or a mid-afternoon break. This version brings the same rich sweetness you expect, without the long wait in line. With just a few simple steps, you can have your favorite warm drink without the extra cost.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat White Chocolate Mocha
Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
This creamy, baked mac and cheese has the same rich blend of cheeses and slight crunch on top that makes the restaurant version so popular. Making it at home means you can skip the markup and still get the same comforting, cheesy side dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but works well for gatherings, too. With simple ingredients, this recipe keeps things affordable without cutting back on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
This smooth, ice-blended drink is a favorite for its sweet, creamy vanilla flavor, and making it yourself means skipping the premium price. It takes just a few minutes and a handful of simple ingredients to put together. Blending it at home also means you can adjust the sweetness and portion size to your liking. It’s a quick, refreshing treat that saves money without sacrificing what you love about the original.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This hearty meatloaf has the same tender texture and slightly sweet glaze as the restaurant version, making it a great choice for a homemade comfort meal. It uses simple pantry ingredients, making it far more budget-friendly than eating out. Baking it in your own kitchen also means plenty of leftovers for easy meals the next day. It’s a straightforward, home-style dish that’s easy to make and cuts down on dining expenses.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat
This moist, lemony bread is just as soft and full of bright citrus flavor as the version you’d pick up with your morning coffee. Baking it at home means you get a full loaf for the price of a single slice at the café. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great option for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The fresh lemon glaze on top brings everything together without requiring anything fancy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Starbucks Copycat
Chicken Divan
This creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole is a restaurant classic that’s easy to make at home. It’s a great way to stretch a few basic ingredients into a filling meal without spending extra on takeout. The combination of tender chicken, a smooth sauce, and a crunchy topping makes it a go-to dish for family dinners. Since it comes together in one dish, cleanup is simple, making it practical for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan
Bang Bang Shrimp
This crispy shrimp dish, coated in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce, is just as bold in flavor as the version from a popular seafood chain. Making it yourself cuts out the high cost while still delivering the same crunchy texture and flavorful coating. It’s quick to prepare and works well as an appetizer or main dish. With a few basic ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant favorite without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade
This fizzy, sweet-tart drink is known for its refreshing blend of cherry and lime flavors, and making it at home is much more budget-friendly than a daily drive-thru run. It takes just a few ingredients and no special equipment to whip up a glass whenever you’re craving one. You can adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking, making it a better option than a pre-made version. It’s a great way to enjoy a favorite drink while cutting down on unnecessary spending.
Get the Recipe: Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade
McDonald’s Mango Pineapple Smoothie
This fruit-packed smoothie has the same tropical flavor and creamy texture as the one from the fast-food chain but costs much less to make at home. Using real fruit and yogurt keeps it simple and makes it easy to blend in just minutes. You can control the sweetness and portion size without paying extra for add-ons. It’s a quick, refreshing option that saves time and money while still delivering the same fruity taste.
Get the Recipe: McDonald’s Mango Pineapple Smoothie
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This creamy soup, filled with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, is just as comforting as the one from a popular Italian restaurant. Making it at home is far more affordable, and you get enough to feed the whole family instead of just a single bowl. It’s simple to prepare and works well as a make-ahead meal for busy days. The thick, creamy broth brings everything together, making this a warm and filling choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
This toasted sandwich brings together smoky grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese in the same way as the café version. Making it at home means skipping the extra cost while still getting that warm, crispy bite. It’s a quick and easy lunch or dinner that comes together in minutes with ingredients you can easily keep on hand. With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, this sandwich is a practical way to enjoy a favorite meal without the takeout price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt