How to Make Copycat Chipotle Queso Blanco

How to Make Copycat Chipotle Queso Blanco

Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.

From Chipotle guacamole to fresh corn salsa, customers line up for burritos and bowls piled high with toppings. The famous Chipotle queso blanco is especially popular and personally, keeps us coming back for more. It’s creamy, cheesy and perfectly spicy. The only downside? It will set you back a few bucks to add queso to your order.

Stretch your dollar a little further by whipping up a batch of your own copycat Chipotle queso. With just a few simple, affordable ingredients, you can take your order to go (or try your hand at this copycat Chipotle chicken) then cheese it up to your heart’s content at home.

How to Make Copycat Chipotle Queso

This recipe makes 3 cups of homemade Chipotle queso.

Ingredients

Copycat Chipotle Queso Blanco Ingredients on dark blue backgroundTMB Studio

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh poblano pepper, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Tools You’ll Need

  • Cutting board: We love this option made entirely from kitchen plastic scraps and renewable sugarcane
  • Saucepan: With dual pour spouts, this saucepan is perfect for transferring warm dips, homemade sauces, and spreads to a serving bowl once prepared.
  • Measuring set: Practical and beautiful. You can leave this set out for display on your counter.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the onions and peppers

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions, poblanos and serrano peppers, then cook until tender, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the garlic and chipotle peppers. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Editor’s Tip: Leftover peppers? Try one of these south-of-the-border favorites to use up extra chipotle peppers in adobo.

Step 2: Add a cornstarch slurry

Copycat Chipotle Queso BlancoTMB Studio

In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch and milk. Whisk together until smooth, and then stir the slurry into the onion mixture. Bring the queso to a boil and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.

Editor’s Tip: While some queso recipes rely on flour or arrowroot as a thickening agent, in testing, we found a simple cornstarch slurry to be the best and easiest way to thicken the sauce.

Step 3: Stir in the cheese

Copycat Chipotle Queso Blanco Tohcom23 272997 P2 Md 04 11 3bTMB Studio

Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the shredded cheese.

Editor’s Tip: For a silky smooth queso, add the cheese in small amounts and allow it to melt completely before the next addition.

Step 4: Season the queso

To finish this dip, gently stir in the chopped tomato and the remaining seasonings. Serve warm with tortilla chips or on top of your favorite copycat Chipotle recipe.

Chipotle Queso FAQs

Copycat Chipotle Queso BlancoTMB Studio

Why is my queso grainy?

Grainy queso? No bueno! Avoid this common queso conundrum by melting the cheese into your queso low and slow. High heat can cause the proteins in cheese to break and allow too much water to evaporate. This can lead to stringy, tough and grainy queso.

Additionally, we always recommend grating your own cheese for queso. Preshredded cheese often contains additives intended to prevent the cheese from clumping together in the package. These same additives can also inhibit the cheese from melting smoothly.

How to customize Chipotle queso

Make this recipe your own with an array of zesty additions or substitutions. For a spicier queso, add more hot peppers of your choice. You could also switch up the cheese choices by opting for pepper jack or sharp yellow cheddar. A final flourish of fresh cilantro or oregano or would also be welcome queso additions.

What goes with Chipotle queso?

While our favorite way to enjoy this copycat Chipotle queso blanco is with homemade tortilla chips, you can also dip, drizzle or pour this queso over:

  • Tacos: Chicken, beef, pork and more! Pair with any one of these amazing taco recipes.
  • Enchiladas: From creamy chicken enchiladas to cheddar beef enchiladas, both will benefit from the addition of Chipotle queso.
  • Nachos: Try this copycat queso with skillet nachos or one of these other must-try nacho recipes.
  • Taco Bell: For a fast-food crossover event, pair the queso with a homemade Cheesy Gordita Crunch or Crunchwrap Supreme.

How do you store leftover queso?

Leftover queso can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding additional milk as needed to thin the queso to the desired consistency.

Our Best Restaurant Copycat Recipes

Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat

This copycat version of Panera Bread’s broccoli cheddar soup will warm you up from the inside out. Serve it in bread bowls to make it even more comforting. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen. If you like this, then you must try our favorite Domino’s cheesy bread recipe.

Wendy’s Chili Copycat

Work with (mostly) pantry staples to make a copycat version of Wendy’s chili. This hearty recipe will save you a trip to the drive-thru! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Whip up more Wendy’s copycat recipes to serve with it.

Chick-fil-A Sauce Copycat

Thanks to this copycat Chick-fil-A sauce recipe, you won’t have to ask for extra sauces to take home with you next time you visit the restaurant. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat

Orange chicken is one of the best items to get at Panda Express. Try making it at home with fried rice and honey walnut shrimp! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Hungry for more? Check out more delicious copycat Chinese takeout recipes.

Bacon Cheddar Potato Skins Exps Thso17 9266 C04 21 6b 3

TGI Fridays Loaded Potato Skins Copycat

Wondering how to make potato skins taste great? I top my restaurant-worthy loaded potato skins with cheese, bacon and a dollop of sour cream. Have them at lunch, snack time or cocktail hour. —Trish Perrin, Keizer, Oregon

Don’t forget to take a look at our collection of the best copycat recipes of 2022.

Crispy Fried Chicken Exps Tohjj22 6445 Dr  02 03 11b 14

KFC Fried Chicken Copycat

If you’ve wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana

Learn the secret to KFC fried chicken—which goes beyond its 11-spice seasoning blend. Then, make more KFC copycat recipes.

McDonald’s Egg McMuffin Copycat

Missed breakfast at McDonald’s? Don’t fret—this copycat McDonald’s Egg McMuffin recipe has you covered. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps188730 Th153343c04 15 5b 10

Chipotle Barbacoa Copycat

My husband adores this slow-cooker barbacoa simmered in lime juice, chipotle and cumin. He would eat it one a week if I would make it that often! We have it over rice with cilantro and a spritz of lime. —Aundrea McCormick, Denver, Colorado

Starbucks Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf Copycat

Skip the line and bake Starbucks pumpkin bread in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe may be even better than the original! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Once you finish this loaf, keep these other Starbucks copycat recipes on your radar.

Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti al Forno Copycat

After having the five-cheese ziti at Olive Garden, I tried to make my own version of it—and I think I got pretty close. I always double this when I’m making it and freeze the second one for another meal. —Keri Whitney, Castro Valley, California

Find more copycat Olive Garden soups, salad and breadsticks.

Nothing Bundt Cake Copycat

After the cake has cooled, pipe the frosting down the sides to make it look just like a true Nothing Bundt Cake. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

This cake is just one of our favorite copycat dessert recipes.

Copycat Chick Fil A Chicken Nuggets Exps Toham22 153028 B11 16 8b

Chick-fil-A Nuggets Recipe

I developed this recipe specifically to copycat Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets. The first time I made them I knew I had a winner because the whole family fought over who got the last one! For a dipping sauce, combine equal parts barbecue sauce and Dijon mustard, then stir in honey to taste. —Jeni Pittard, Statham, Georgia

Don’t forget about our other copycat chicken recipes!

Exps186743 Sd153319b10 08 3b 11

California Pizza Kitchen Thai Chicken Pizza Copycat

Contributor Gigi Miller, from Stoughton, Wisconsin, provided a fabulous recipe for sweet and saucy chicken thighs that she serves with rice. We took it a step further, and used the chicken and sauce to make this restaurant-inspired Thai pizza. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Panera Bread Bread Bowls Copycat

Bread bowls make every dish at Panera that much better. Learn how to make them at home, so you can fill them with all of your favorite homemade soups and pasta dishes, or another Panera copycat recipe like tomato soup. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Next, learn how to get a free Panera toasted baguette.

Pasta Napolitana Exps Ft20 244521 F 0226 1 4

The Cheesecake Factory Pasta Napoletana Copycat

This is the ultimate meat lovers sauce and is my copycat version of The Cheesecake Factory’s pasta. Rich and hearty, with tremendous flavors, this pasta Napolitana will disappear quickly. I always make extra sauce, as it freezes very well. —John Pittman, Northampton, Pennsylvania. Next, try the copycat version of The Cheesecake Factory’s cheeseburger egg rolls.

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Exps Ssmz18 55269 D03 09 2b 2

Olive Garden Chicken & Gnocchi Soup Copycat

I tasted a similar soup at Olive Garden and wanted to see if I could re-create it myself at home. Here’s the delicious result! It’s wonderful on a chilly evening. —Jaclynn Robinson, Shingletown, California

If you love this soup, we have plenty more Olive Garden copycat recipes.

Berry Topped Coffee Cake Exps Hck17 104568 B08 24 5b 12

Starbucks Very Berry Coffee Cake Copycat

This tasty, wholesome coffee cake is loaded with fresh berries. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. —Heather O’Neill, Troy, Ohio

Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Copycat

If you love Olive Garden’s fettuccine Alfredo, you need to try this copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce recipe. Grate the cheese yourself to make sure it’s extra creamy! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen. If you’re looking for more copycat recipes, learn how to make Asiago tortelloni alfredo with grilled chicken.

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes Exps Diyd19 14205 E08 27 4b 4

Applebee’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes Copycat

These creamy garlic mashed potatoes are so good, you can serve them plain—no butter or gravy is needed. This is one of our favorite red potato recipes. —Valerie Mitchell, Olathe, Kansas

Wendy’s Frosty Copycat

A Wendy’s frosty isn’t a shake or even soft serve—it’s got a unique texture we all know and love. This copycat recipe is just like the real thing! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

This is how you can get a free Wendy’s frosty every day for a year.

Exps126592 Thca163696a05 29 2b V3 4

The Cheesecake Factory Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake Copycat

I love both red velvet cake and cheesecake. So why not combine them into one stunning red velvet cheesecake recipe? It’s best when served chilled, right out of the fridge. —Melissa Gaines, Knoxville, Tennessee

Exps4877 B163857d11 05 3b 4

Orange Julius Original Copycat

I love to treat overnight guests to this creamy orange frappe. Just blitz a few basic ingredients in your blender and enjoy. —Joyce Mummau, Mount Airy, Maryland

Lemon Chicken Rice Soup Exps Ssmz20 151442 E10 08 3b 4

Panera Bread Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup Copycat

Years ago, I fell hard for a lemony Greek soup at Panera Bread. It was just a special back then, but I re-created it at home so we could eat it whenever a craving hit! —Kristin Cherry, Bothell, Washington

Here are more restaurant copycat soup recipes.

Chipotle Guacamole Copycat

No need to pay extra for guac anymore—rely on this copycat Chipotle guacamole recipe to satisfy your cravings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Noodles & Company Wisconsin Mac & Cheese Copycat

I like to serve this mac & cheese with a salad and crusty bread. It’s a satisfying meal that feels upscale, but will fit just about any budget. And because the Gorgonzola is so mild in this dish, even the kiddos will go for it. —Charlotte Giltner, Mesa, Arizona

Try more copycat restaurant mac and cheese recipes to find your favorite.

Butterbeer Copycat

Whether you enjoy it hot, cold, or even frozen, this copycat butterbeer recipe will whisk you straight to Hogsmeade. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps41089 Thca163696d08 27 4b 4

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Copycat

Here’s a convenient spin on a classic Italian favorite. Spaghetti sauce and canned broth form the flavorful base. —Cindy Garland, Limestone, Tennessee

McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets Copycat

Who doesn’t love McDonald’s chicken McNuggets? This copycat recipe will help satisfy your craving without having to sit in the drive-thru. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chipotle Rice Copycat

Learn how to make the signature dish at home. Put it in your own bowls or burritos, or another copycat Chipotle recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Copycat

Have half an hour? Whip up a batch of your favorite Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuits at home. You can even freeze leftovers for two to three months. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Country Chicken With Gravy Exps Dsbz17 28571 D01 13 3b 4

Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Copycat

Here’s a lightened-up take on the classic southern comfort-food dish: chicken and gravy. This recipe has been a hit at our house since the first time we tried it! —Ruth Helmuth, Abbeville, South Carolina.

Want to try out more recipes? Here’s our copycat Cracker Barrel broccoli cheddar chicken recipe.

Exps957 Th143195c09 04 4b 8

Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Copycat

Years ago, I drove 4-1/2 hours to a cake contest, holding my entry on my lap the whole way. But it paid off. One bite and you’ll see why this velvety beauty was named the best chocolate cake recipe and won first prize. —Sandra Johnson, Tioga, Pennsylvania

Try more of our copycat cake recipes.

Dunkin’ Iced Coffee with Mocha Flavor Swirl Copycat

When my sister introduced me to iced coffee, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Not only did I love it, but I decided to start making my own iced coffee recipe. This easy version is a refreshing alternative to hot coffee. —Jenny Reece, Lowry, Minnesota

Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Copycat

Stopping at Cinnabon is one of the best parts of going to the mall. Recreate the smell of Cinnabon (and of course, the cinnamon rolls!) by making this copycat recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Country Kitchen Farm Skillet Copycat

I added a little color and flavor to this country scrambled eggs recipe by adding some green pepper, onion and red potatoes. —Joyce Platfoot, Wapakoneta, Ohio

The Cheesecake Factory Original Cheesecake Copycat

There’s nothing like a slice of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake—tangy, decadent, and delicious. Our copycat recipe even has the same sour cream topping. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Try other copycat Cheesecake Factory recipes, whether it’s for pasta,

Country Kitchen Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp Copycat

I live in apple country, and making a delicious apple crisp is one way to use the fruit. This treat doesn’t take a lot of time to assemble. —Gertrude Bartnick, Portage, Wisconsin

Sonic Corn Dog Copycat

One of the best parts of the many fairs and festivals in Indiana is the corn dogs! My family loves corn dogs, so I fix them fairly often at home. —Sally Denney, Warsaw, Indiana

Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Copycat

I ran across this recipe in one of my antique cookbooks. It’s a timeless classic I like to prepare for friends and family throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. —Betty Ann Morgan, Upper Marlboro, Maryland

McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese Copycat

Go on a burger road trip in your own backyard. Grill the patties and load them sky-high with your favorite toppings. For instance, peanut butter and bacon make them southern style; coleslaw and tomatoes, a northern version. —Susan Mahaney, New Hartford, New York

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Recipe

The secret to a perfect copycat Krispy Kreme doughnut? The frying oil. Try our recipe and you’ll see! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Boston Market Meat Loaf Copycat

Mom made the best meatloaf, and now I do, too. When I first met my husband, he didn’t care for homemade meatloaf, but this won him over. —Michelle Beran, Claflin, Kansas

Cracker Barrel Roast Beef Copycat

Everyone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom’s specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, Pennsylvania

Exps9818 Fm153592c03 24 3b 16

PF Chang’s House-Made Chicken Egg Rolls Copycat

These egg rolls are low in fat but the crispiness from baking will fool you into thinking they were fried! —Barbara Lierman, Lyons, Nebraska

Don’t forget about our other PF Chang’s copycat recipes.

Flavorful Chicken Fajitas Exps Ciw19 12540 B08 30 6b 75

Chili’s Chicken Fajitas Copycat

This chicken fajitas recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The marinated chicken in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves! —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky

Old Fashioned Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Exps Mcsmz17 14593 D01 05 7b 13

Rock Bottom Carrot Cake Copycat

A pleasingly moist cake, this treat is the one I requested that my mom make each year for my birthday. It’s dotted with sweet carrots and a hint of cinnamon. The fluffy buttery frosting is scrumptious with chopped walnuts stirred in. One piece of this carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is never enough—it’s better than all the other carrot cakes I’ve tried! —Kim Orr, West Grove, Pennsylvania

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits Exps Bk22 14975 Dr 12 02 3b

Popeyes Biscuits Copycat

The recipe for these four-ingredient homemade buttermilk biscuits has been handed down for many generations. —Fran Thompson, Tarboro, North Carolina

Cheddar Chili Burgers Exps15740 Gb143373d01 15 3bc Rms 7

Red Robin Chili Chili Cheeseburger Copycat

Big, bold chili and french-fried onions are a fun alternative to the classic burger fixings of ketchup and mustard. The patties are easy to assemble, making this a great weeknight sandwich. —Sue Ross, Casa Grande, Arizona

Lofthouse Cookies Copycat

You won’t be able to tell the difference between these soft, pillowy copycat Lofthouse cookies and a package of store-bought treats. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

The Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread Copycat

The brown bread at The Cheesecake Factory is just as exciting as the cheesecake. You won’t be able to tell the difference between this copycat recipe and the real thing! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Rock Bottom Ball Park Pretzels Copycat

My husband and our friends and family love these soft, chewy pretzels. Let the bread machine mix the dough, then all you have to do is shape and bake these fun snacks. —Sherry Peterson, Fort Collins, Colorado

State Fair Copycat Cream Puffs

The Wisconsin Bakers Association has served this cream puff recipe at our state fair since 1924. —Ruth Jungbluth, Dodgeville, Wisconsin

Exps17422 Scsc163923c03 29 4b 10

Portillo’s Chili Cheese Dog Copycat

These deluxe chili dogs are a surefire hit at family functions and tailgates. Adults and children alike love the cheesy chili sauce, and the toppings are fun! —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon

Exps19742 Ff163882d01 12 7b 1

McCalister’s Deli Spud Olé Copycat

This is a stuffed potato with a tasty twist. Teenagers like the flavor that comes from the green chiles and cheese. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Boston Market Mac & Cheese Copycat

Our stovetop macaroni and cheese is extra special, thanks to the buttery crumb topping. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Maggiano’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes Copycat

Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can also form the crab mixture into four thick patties instead of eight crab cakes. —Charlene Spelock, Apollo, Pennsylvania

Culver’s Vanilla Custard Copycat

I think my most memorable summertime dessert for get-togethers has always been homemade ice cream. This recipe is so rich and creamy and is the perfect splurge on a hot summer afternoon. —Martha Self, Montgomery, Texas

The Cheesecake Factory Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake Cheesecake Copycat

I said I’d take dessert to a holiday party so I tried this recipe. I’m sure you’ll agree it tastes as luscious as it looks! —Dawn Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania

Exps28058 Bhr133210c05 15 3b Web 4

Red Lobster Garlic Shrimp Scampi Copycat

This shrimp scampi recipe looks elegant enough to serve to company, but it’s easy to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs enhance the shrimp. Serve it over pasta and wait for the compliments. —Lori Packer, Omaha, Nebraska

If you want to try more copycat recipes, learn to make bang bang shrimp just like Bonefish Grill.

Catfish Parmesan Exps 13x9bz20 2392 C10 02 11b 7

Texas Roadhouse Fried Catfish Copycat

Mississippi is the nation’s largest producer of farm-raised catfish. My family loves this dish, and asks for it often. One reason I like it is it’s so simple to prepare. —Mrs. W.D. Baker, Starkville, Mississippi

Chicken Pesto With Pasta Exps30125 5ing2856595d03 13 5b Rms 2

Noodles & Company Pesto Cavatappi Copycat

Prepared sauce accents this warm chicken pesto pasta. Keep pesto in the freezer for the next time you have leftover chicken. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps31556 Cw163681c12 11 1b 3

Buffalo Wild Wings Bourbon Honey Mustard Wings Copycat

For a change from spicy Buffalo sauce, try these sweet and sticky wings. There’s a good chance they’ll become your new favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York

Blushing Penne Pasta Exps Sdfm17 34895 B10 06 9b 7

Noodles & Company Penne Rosa Copycat

I reworked this recipe from an original that called for vodka and heavy whipping cream. My friends and family had a hard time believing a sauce this rich, flavorful and creamy could be light. —Margaret Wilson, Hemet, California

McCalister’s Deli Harvest Chicken Salad Copycat

These sandwiches are easy to pull together when you need something fun and taste-worthy in a flash. I make them often for occasions like brunches, church youth meetings and impromptu family gatherings. —Cheryl Sigler, Louisville, Ohio

Chicken Potstickers Exps Chkbz18 38049 B10 12 6b 2

Panda Express Chicken Potsticker Copycat

Chicken and mushrooms make up the filling in these pot stickers, a traditional Chinese dumpling. Greasing the steamer rack makes it easier to remove them once they’re steamed. —Jacquelynne Stine, Las Vegas, Nevada

Chocolate Cookie Cheesecake Exps Thca19 38198 C02 21 3b 6

Hard Rock Cafe Cheesecake made with Oreo Cookie Pieces Copycat

I used to think cheesecake sounded intimidating, but since I started making them I can’t stop! This simple but special cookie-topped version will make your family feel fussed over. —Rose Yoder, Middlebury, Indiana

Cashew Chicken With Ginger Exps Sdfm17 34369 D10 04 6b 2

The Cheesecake Factory Spicy Cashew Chicken Copycat

There are lots of recipes for cashew chicken, but my family thinks this one stands alone. We love the flavor from the fresh ginger and the crunch of the cashews. Another plus is it’s easy to prepare. —Oma Rollison, El Cajon, California

Barbecued Chicken Pizzas Exps Sdjj17 44709 C02 17 2b 12

California Pizza Kitchen The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza Copycat

So fast and so easy with refrigerated pizza crust, these saucy, smoky pizzas make quick fans with their rustic, hot-off-the-grill flavor. They’re perfect for impromptu cookouts and summer dinners on the patio. —Alicia Trevithick, Temecula, California

Cracker Barrel Chicken n’ Dumplins Copycat

Using precooked chicken and ready-made biscuits, this hearty dish is comfort food made simple. It’s the perfect way to warm up on chilly nights. —Lakeya Astwood, Schenectady, New York

Culver’s Butterburger Copycat

It’s no secret that Wisconsinites love their dairy—so much that they sometimes top their burgers with a generous pat of butter.
My recipe is a lot like the butter burgers you’ll find in popular restaurants all over the state. —Becky Carver, North Royalton, Ohio

Exps48050 Mc163887d03 08 6b 2

Rock Bottom Bacon Jalapeno Poppers Copycat

There’s no faster way to get a party started than with these bacon jalapeno poppers. Make them ahead and bake just before serving. Even the those who are intolerant of hot peppers will love them. —Dawn Onuffer, Crestview, Florida

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Copycat

Each sip of this spiced-just-right beverage from our very own baristas tastes like a piece of pumpkin pie! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Copycat Starbucks Egg Bites Exps Toham22 243586 B11 16 5b 12

Starbucks Bacon and Gruyere Egg Bites Copycat

You can substitute Gruyere cheese for the Swiss and ham for the bacon, or add in small-cut veggies to these copycat Starbucks egg bites. I also like to bake these in small Mason jars for fun single-portion presentations. Serve with avocado slices and fresh fruit for a healthy breakfast. —Maria Morelli, West Kelowna, British Columbia

PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps Copycat

This recipe is as tasty as the lettuce wraps found in national restaurants, but it’s healthier! — Linda Rowley, Richardson, Texas

Potato Sausage Kale Soup Exps Tohcom22 74273 P2 Md 05 12 6b

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Copycat

I let my young son pick out seed packets and he chose kale, which grew like crazy. This hearty soup helped make good use of it and rivals a restaurant version that we love.
—Michelle Babbie, Malone, New York

Shrimp Po Boys With Pineapple Slaw Exps Tham17 84813 B11 09 3b 8

Popeyes Seafood Po’ Boy Copycat

This twist on the traditional po’boy sandwich adds flavor and veggies while reducing fat and calories. For a smoked flavor, grill the shrimp. For a lower-carb option, serve the po’boy open-faced on a baguette half. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia

Chipotle Corn Salsa Copycat

Chipotle corn salsa is a go-to topping for bowls and burritos alike. Make it at home so you can enjoy it however you like—even by the spoonful! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps96649 Sd163324d08 11 6b 2

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Copycat

If you’re feeling festive, scoop some vanilla ice cream over a bowl of these cinnamon spiced apples. They’re homey, aromatic and just plain heavenly. —Amie Powell, Knoxville, Tennessee

Quesadilla Burger Exps Tohcr22 269375 P2 Md 06 17 3b

Applebee’s Quesadilla Burger Copycat

My niece fell in love with the quesadilla burger from Applebee’s and challenged me to make it at home. She says this copycat Applebee’s quesadilla burger recipe is pretty darn close to the real thing! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Big John S Chili Rubbed Ribs Exps Sfbz23 119906 P2 Md 11 17 2b

Hard Rock Café Hickory-Smoked Ribs Copycat

When my family thinks of summer grilling, it’s ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions. —Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida

Chipotle Chicken Copycat

With the help of a flavorful marinade, Chipotle chicken is pretty easy to make at home. Fire up the grill and get going! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Einstein Bros. Bagels Asiago Bagel Copycat

Discover a cheesy alternative to the usual sweet bread brunch offerings. There’s no need to stop by a bakery when you can make this asiago bagel recipe at home. —Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska

Bakers Square French Silk Pie Copycat

Chocolate makes the world go round! We have a family that loves chocolate pies, and this version with a splash of brandy is smooth as silk and oh, so special. —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island

Exps137158 Th153342b02 11 13b 4

IHOP Blueberry Pancakes Copycat

My dad makes blueberry pancakes for us every Saturday without fail. The combination of oats, cornmeal and buttermilk in the batter gives the pancakes heartiness we can’t resist. —Gabrielle Short, Pleasant Hill, Iowa

Exps140330 Sd163614b12 08 5b 16

Starbucks Iced Lemon Loaf Copycat

My family always asks for this love-me-tender lemon loaf cake. Sometimes, I shake things up and make cupcakes with the batter. So awesome for brunch! —Lola Baxter, Winnebago, Minnesota

The Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Copycat

The Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Shrimp scampi is a delicious dish to turn to when the huge menu at the Cheesecake Factory becomes too overwhelming. When serving, put the lightly breaded shrimp around the outsides of the mound of angel hair pasta to plate it just like the restaurant does. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

California Sushi Rolls Exps Ft20 142244 F 0806 1 18

PF Chang’s California Roll Copycat

This tastes as good as any restaurant-made or store-bought California roll. Plus, it’s one of the easiest sushi recipes for when you’re first learning. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are best described as a delicious cross between mozzarella sticks and jalapeno poppers. Make them at home and you’ll see! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps 144191 Th132767b04 25 4bc Rms 7

Popeyes Macaroni & Cheese Copycat

My sons always say I’m the best mom in the world when I make this creamy mac-and-cheese perfection. Does it get any better than that? —Heidi Fleek, Hamburg, Pennsylvania

Deep Fried Cheese Bites Exps149794 Th2377560a02 29 3b Rms 8

Culver’s Wisconsin Cheese Curds Copycat

These beer-battered cheese curds are the ultimate in delicious comfort food. Some folks like to serve them with ranch dressing, ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping. —Katie Rose, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Here are more regional copycat recipes for when you’re missing home.

Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat

Olive Garden breadsticks are the best breadsticks around. Now, you can have them at your fingertips, thanks to this copycat recipe! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps154306 Sd153322c04 02 4b 2

Country Kitchen Chicken & Waffle Copycat

My first experience with this dish sent my taste buds into orbit. I first made this chicken and waffles recipe into appetizers, but we all love them as a main course, too. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri

Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon Copycat

When I’m dining out, crab rangoons are one of my go-to dishes. I decided to create a better-for-you version at home. —Emily Higgins, Wingdale, New York

Here are other takeout copycat recipes.

Exps158587 Th153342b02 11 3b Web 3

Bakers Square Coconut Cream Pie Copycat

When I whip up a toasted coconut cream pie, my family goes wild and the pie vanishes. —Darlene Bartos, Shoreview, Minnesota

Herbed Cheese Sticks Exps163282 Th132767a05 02 19bc Rms 2

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Copycat

We love the breadsticks we get hot from the oven at our local pizza parlor. Now I can serve that same wonderful goodness at home. —Heather Bates, Athens, Maine

Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Copycat

Breaded chicken, bacon and roasted red peppers are just a few ingredients that make this copycat Olive Garden carbonara recipe so flavorful. Pair it with salad and breadsticks like you would at the restaurant! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha Copycat

You can easily indulge in a coffeehouse-quality drink at home anytime. With whipped cream and a butterscotch drizzle, this mocha treat will perk up even the sleepiest person at the table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps165348 Th153342b02 10 1b1 1

Hard Rock Cafe Original Legendary Burger Copycat

Every family has a burger of choice, and this is ours. It’s stacked tall with bacon and crunchy onion rings. —Paula Homer, Nampa, Idaho

Authentic Pasta Carbonara Exps Tham17 172742 D11 08 2b 3

Maggiano’s Johnny’s Carbonara Copycat

I learned on my culinary internship in Tuscany that real Italian cuisine is simpler than you think! This carbonara is quick, simple and delicious, just the way they like it in Italy. —Lauren Brien-Wooster, South Lake Tahoe, California

Little Caesar's Pretzel Crust Pizza

Little Caesar’s Pretzel Crust Pizza

This copycat Little Caesar’s recipe will have you saying, “Pizza, pizza!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Tater Tot Chos Exps175046 Th14191c11 21 2b Rms 5

Sonic Chili Cheese Tots Copycat

Playing with food is loads of fun when you have Tater Tots and taco toppings. Let kids build their own for smiles all around. —Eleanor Mielke, Mitchell, South Dakota

Portillo’s Italian Beef Sandwich Copycat

I have fond memories of my mother in the kitchen preparing her amazing beef dip sandwiches. They always made our house smell like an Old World Italian restaurant. And as good as the aroma was, somehow the taste was even better! Set out a jar of giardiniera for spooning on top. —Kira Vosk, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

McDonald’s Shamrock Shake Copycat

Save a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies for this creamy milkshake that’s fun for kids and adults, too. —Shauna Sever, San Francisco, California

The Cheesecake Factory Chicken Madeira Copycat

Skip the wait time and make this best-selling Cheesecake Factory menu item at home. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Looking for more recipes? Learn to make a copycat version of The Cheesecake Factory’s chicken piccata.

Exps189916 Th153343b04 22 4b 5

Maggiano’s Shrimp Scampi Copycat

A touch more lemon helped me trim the calories in our favorite shrimp scampi recipe. For those who want to indulge, pass around the Parmesan. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts

Exps190578 Th163619c10 01 3b 2

Rock Bottom Cajun Pasta Copycat

I’m originally from Louisiana, where my grandma spoke Cajun French as she taught me her spicy chicken spaghetti. —Brenda Melancon, McComb, Mississippi

Slow Cooker Carnitas Exps Sdam17 191361 D12 02 7b 12

Chipotle Carnitas Copycat

We shared these flavor-packed tacos with friends from church who came over to help us move. They’re so good, I put them on my blog, manilaspoon.com! The slow cooker makes this recipe extra easy, and I love that whenever I make it, I’m reminded of the wonderful people back in Michigan. —Abigail Raines, Hamden, Connecticut

The Cheesecake Factory Steak Diane Copycat

This copycat Cheesecake Factory steak Diane recipe goes perfectly with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Exps191645 Sd163575a10 08 4b Alt 1

Red Robin Burnin’ Love Burger Copycat

On a whim, we mixed homemade jalapeno jam into ground beef patties, then topped the burgers with caramelized onions and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Fabulous! —Becky Mollenkamp, St. Louis, Missouri

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Copycat

I love their crunchy, citrusy salad so much that once I made my husband drive an hour to the nearest Applebee’s restaurant just so I could eat it! It was time to come up with my own version. I’m completely happy with the results—and my husband is, too! Find more of my recipes at my blog, mandysrecipeboxblog.com. —Mandy Bird, Holbrook, Idaho

Vegetarian Pad Thai Exps Hck18 197935 B04 014 4b 8

PF Chang’s Pad Thai Copycat

This is a simple pad thai loaded with crisp vegetables and zesty flavor. It’s quick, simple, and fresh-tasting. —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia

Panera Bread Mac and Cheese Copycat

The creamy, cheesy shells in each bite of Panera mac and cheese are hard to stop eating. Make it at home and you can have a whole pot to yourself! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Texas Chili Fries Exps Sdjj18 201402 C02 13 3b 3

Red Robin Chili Chili Cheese Fries Copycat

The delicious chili goes together in minutes and then cooks while you run errands. The only way to make it even better is to pour it over crisp french fries and sprinkle with cheese. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Copycat

This savory copycat Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole recipe will be your new favorite brunch item. Serve it with bacon and eggs for a well-rounded breakfast! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Waffle House Regular Waffle Copycat

These melt-in-your-mouth waffles are so tender that you can skip butter and syrup, but why would you want to? —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Artichoke Spinach Dip Pizza Exps46925 Sd142780d08 15 1bc Rms 5

California Pizza Kitchen Roasted Artichoke + Spinach Pizza Copycat

When I have garlic oil in my pantry, I swap it for regular olive oil. The garlic adds a little something without being overpowering. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

Oven Fried Pickles Exps Thcoms17 209975 D09 08 1b 1

Texas Roadhouse Fried Pickles Copycat

Like deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this unfried version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then baked until crispy. Dip them with ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget.—Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Cracker Barrel Meat Loaf Copycat

Crushed Ritz crackers make this copycat Cracker Barrel meat loaf recipe a winner. Use a casserole dish when baking to catch all the juices! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chocolate Pecan Skillet Cookie Exps Cimz17 213117 B09 16 4b 4

Chili’s Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Copycat

Bake up the ultimate shareable cookie. For variety, replace the chocolate chips with an equal quantity of M&M’s or chocolate chunks. Or go super fancy by mixing the chocolate chips and pecans into the dough, then gently folding in 1-1/2 cups fresh raspberries. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Popular Videos

Read More

Share:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *