45 Takeout-Inspired Recipes That Taste Better Homemade

ByJennifer

We’ve put together a collection of delicious recipes that are even better than their takeout versions. Imagine cooking up your favorite dishes right in your kitchen, making them healthier, cheaper, and, dare we say, tastier than calling in an order.

Beef Teriyaki

Slow Cooker Beef Teriyaki recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Beef Teriyaki is comfort food with juicy beef and flavorful teriyaki sauce mixed with sweet bell peppers.

Get the Recipe: Beef Teriyaki

Big Mac Salad

Big Mac Salad recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Enjoy all the classic Big Mac flavors without the guilt in our easy, homemade salad version. Perfect for a lighter, tasty meal.

Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Smash Burger

Smash Burger recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Whip up a delicious Smash Burger in just 20 minutes! Crispy edges, juicy centers, and customizable toppings make them a family favorite.

Get the Recipe: Smash Burger

Easy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Chicken Parmesan has been a restaurant favorite for years. Learn how easy it is to make Chicken Parmesan at home.

Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Tuscan Shrimp recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the flavors of Tuscan shrimp, a succulent and comforting dish simmered to perfection in a creamy sauce. Perfect for any occasion.

Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover how to make a quick and delicious Chicken Marsala with our easy recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish features tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich Marsala wine sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes!

Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Try this delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe perfect for busy nights. It’s quick, flavorful, and easy to make.

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken

New York Strip Steak with Green Beans and Mushrooms

New York Strip Steak with Green Beans and Mushrooms recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the satisfaction of a flawlessly seared New York strip steak, expertly paired with seasonal vegetables, for an exquisite dining experience.

Get the Recipe: New York Strip Steak with Green Beans and Mushrooms

Sesame Chicken Recipe

Sesame Chicken recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Try our savory Sesame Chicken recipe for a comforting and flavorful meal. Prepare it easily and enjoy the taste at home.

Get the Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Skip the takeout and make this easy slow cooker meal! Tender beef and steamed broccoli are drenched in a thick, flavor-filled sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. This is a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.

Get the Recipe: Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Thai Red Chicken Curry

Thai Red Chicken Curry recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Make our flavorful Thai Red Curry Chicken recipe for a quick and tasty one-pan dinner that your whole family will enjoy. It’s both easy and delicious.

Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Red Chicken Curry

Easy Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our homemade Mongolian Beef recipe. Tender beef slices coated in a sweet and savory glaze.

Get the Recipe: Easy Mongolian Beef

Shrimp Lo Mein

A bowl of stir fried noodles with shrimp and peppers.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Savor homemade Shrimp Lo Mein in 30 minutes with this easy recipe featuring succulent shrimp, fresh veggies, and a savory sauce.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Enjoy our flavorful, easy Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with this easy recipe. Perfectly air-fried, juicy chicken tossed in a sweet and savory sauce.

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Shepherd’s Pie

A plate with a piece of meat and vegetables on it.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Make dinner a breeze with our easy Shepherd’s Pie recipe! Hearty beef, mixed veggies, and creamy potatoes. Perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie

Classic Bolognese

Bolognese recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Our Ultimate Bolognese Sauce recipe is rich, hearty, and easy to make. Perfect for family dinners, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Get the Recipe: Classic Bolognese

Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Enjoy our easy homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, gooey, and topped with a delightful frosting. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Impress your Game Day guests with these quick and delicious Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Perfectly crispy and ideal for snacking or entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Marry Me Chicken

Marry Me Chicken recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our easy Mary Me Chicken recipe! Perfect for a romantic dinner that could end up with an “I DO.”

Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo Chicken Sliders recipe by Cheerful Cook
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Try our mouthwatering buffalo chicken sliders recipe for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for foodies and anyone looking for a delicious option.

Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Homemade Air Fryer Lobster Tails

Air Fryer Lobster Tails recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

With our simple recipe, indulge in mouthwatering air-fried lobster tails. Enjoy tender and flavorful lobster effortlessly at home.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Air Fryer Lobster Tails

Cajun Chicken Pasta

A skillet full of pasta with chicken in it.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Make One-Pan Cajun Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes. It’s a quick, creamy, spicy dish with easy cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights.

Get the Recipe: Cajun Chicken Pasta

15-Minute Korean Beef Bowl

Korean Beef Bowl recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover an easy twist on the classic Korean beef bowl recipe. This ground beef dish combines rich flavors of aromatic spices into a flavorful meal.

Get the Recipe: 15-Minute Korean Beef Bowl

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the perfect blend of citrus and poppy seed in our delicious homemade Lemon Poppy Seed Bread. A must-try recipe for all lemon lovers.

Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Spinach Dip

A person dipping a tortilla chip into a bowl of spinach dip.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

There’s a reason hot spinach dip is such a popular party dip. It’s deliciously creamy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping bread or chips.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Dip

Creamy Coleslaw

A fork is being used to scoop a salad out of a bowl.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Crispy, crunchy, and creamy coleslaw is the perfect side dish. This foolproof recipe beats any store-bought coleslaw. It’s simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coleslaw

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Red Velvet Cupcake recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover the perfect blend of rich cocoa and velvety goodness with our exquisite Red Velvet Cupcakes. They’re easy to bake and hard to resist.

Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Chicken Cacciatore

A fork is holding a bowl of pasta with sauce on it.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Chicken Cacciatore is simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with mushrooms and peppers; this traditional dish makes a delightful dinner.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Hot Crab Dip

A person grabbing a piece of cheesy potato dip.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Crab Dip is an easy recipe you can make at home using basic ingredients. Make your own hot Crab Dip for your next party. Here’s how.

Get the Recipe: Hot Crab Dip

Shrimp Carbonara

Shrimp Carbonara recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Decadently delicious Shrimp Carbonara is an incredibly easy recipe. Made with eggs, bacon, and cheese, this dish is ready in 30 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Carbonara

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

This easy-to-make recipe combines the classic comfort of ham and cheese sliders. Perfect for foodies and anyone craving a tasty treat.

Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Easy Baked BBQ Pork Chops

Baked BBQ Pork Chops recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the ultimate family comfort food with our mouthwatering baked BBQ pork chops recipe. Perfectly tender and packed with flavor.

Get the Recipe: Easy Baked BBQ Pork Chops

French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Satisfy your soup cravings with this flavorful French Onion Soup teeming with sweet caramelized onions topped with cheesy bread!

Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our gourmet twist on Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese. Creamy, smoky, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Thick Crust Pizza

A slice of pizza with pepperoni and parmesan cheese.
Photo Credit: Our Happy Mess.

If you’ve been looking for a great thick-crust pizza recipe, look no further! This quick, easy dough is soft, chewy, thick, and hearty.

Get the Recipe: Thick Crust Pizza

Butter Chicken

A bowl of butter chicken with naan and sour cream.
Photo Credit: Masala and Chai.

This Butter Chicken is the creamiest Indian curry to make in the comfort of your own home, even down to the iconic bold orange-red color.

Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Applebee’s Copycat Fiesta Lime Chicken

Mexican chicken on a white plate.
Photo Credit: Busy Family Recipes.

This Fiesta Lime Chicken is a delicious copycat recipe to everyone’s favorite dish at Applebee’s that takes just 10 minutes of hands-on prep time! An awesome weeknight meal that’s packed full of flavor!

Get the Recipe: Applebee’s Copycat Fiesta Lime Chicken

Copycat PF Chang’s Fried Rice

Fried rice in a white bowl with carrots and peas.
Photo Credit: Food Hussy.

PF Chang’s fried rice is a huge favorite among my friends and me. It’s really easy to make and ready in less than 30 minutes.

Get the Recipe: Copycat PF Chang’s Fried Rice

Shrimp Chop Suey

A bowl of stir fried vegetables with shrimp and mushrooms.
Photo Credit: Bless This Meal.

Shrimp chop suey is a classic Chinese-American dinner. This recipe combines shrimp and other fresh vegetables with a savory, mouthwatering sauce.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Chop Suey

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice in a skillet on a wooden table.
Photo Credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Shrimp chop suey is a classic Chinese-American dinner. This recipe combines shrimp and other fresh vegetables with a savory, mouthwatering sauce.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Chop Suey

Chicken And Shrimp Fried Rice

Fried rice with chicken, shrimp and vegetables in a pan.
Photo Credit: Sprinkled With Balance.

Better than takeout and easy to make, this chicken and shrimp fried rice is incredibly delicious and satisfying!

Get the Recipe: Chicken And Shrimp Fried Rice

Panda Express Orange Flavored Chicken

A plate of chicken with sauce and chopsticks.
Photo Credit: What a Girl Eats.

This Panda Express orange chicken recipe is even better than takeout and so much healthier! It’s naturally gluten-free!

Get the Recipe: Panda Express Orange Flavored Chicken

Thai Fried Rice

A bowl of Thai fried rice with shrimp.
Photo Credit: Savory Sweet Spoon.

Thai Basil Fried Rice is absolutely delicious and can be made in 12 minutes with basic ingredients like shrimp, rice, eggs, and aromatics. Get ready for a one-pan weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavors!

Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

A white bowl with chicken and vegetables in it.
Photo Credit: West Coast Kitchen Garden.

Garlic, ginger, and soy flavor this velvety Panda Express mushroom chicken that’s made in just one pan in under 30 minutes!

Get the Recipe: Panda Express Mushroom Chicken

Wonton Soup

A bowl of wonton soup.
Photo Credit: What a Girl Eats.

How to make homemade wontons for wonton soup. This easy recipe includes step-by-step photos and instructions.

Get the Recipe: Wonton Soup

BONUS – Potluck Perfect Buffet Foods

Al Pastor Little Smokies with Pineapple in a dish.
Photo Credit: Midwexican.

GET THE BONUS RECIPES

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