18 Takeout-Style Dinners That Are Shockingly Simple

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Pizza Burgers

Sink your teeth into these flavorful, juicy burgers piled high with gooey, melted cheese—every bite is a crave-worthy experience. It’s like your two favorite takeout meals teamed up to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're in the mood for something cheesy, meaty, or indulgent, this recipe hits all the right notes. Perfect for weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever you're dreaming of a diner-style bite without leaving the house. It’s a little messy, totally satisfying, and guaranteed to steal the show at dinner.
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Honey Walnut Shrimp

Honey Walnut Shrimp is a beloved dish that brings together crispy, golden-brown shrimp and a sweet, creamy sauce that’s downright irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause after the first bite—rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent. While it’s a staple on many takeout menus, this recipe proves that you don’t need to dine out to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this crowd-pleaser right in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Shrimp Fried Rice

Juicy, tender shrimp and perfectly seasoned rice come together in this lighter, homemade twist on a beloved takeout classic. It’s a comforting dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, offering a satisfying meal without the extra oil or heaviness. The balance of savory aromatics and plump shrimp makes every bite deliciously addictive. Best of all, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, wholesome, and genuinely tasty.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Chicken Pad Thai

Imagine chewy Thai rice noodles tossed with juicy, tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a rich, tangy sauce that hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, and just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together—just 35 minutes from start to finish. Even better than your favorite takeout spot, this homemade version is a surefire crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Bring the bold, comforting flavors of Thailand to your kitchen tonight—this dish is destined to become a regular on your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pad Thai

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

This slow cooker teriyaki chicken is the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you ever ordered takeout in the first place. It’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients, yet delivers bold, savory-sweet flavor that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant. Thanks to the magic of slow cooking, the chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up every bit of that irresistible teriyaki sauce. It’s the perfect no-fuss meal for busy weeknights—just set it, forget it, and come back to a dinner that’s ready to impress. Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or whatever sides you love most for a complete and comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken (Easy Takeout Recipe)

Get ready to savor a dish that's equal parts comforting and crave-worthy with this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe. Juicy, bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a sticky, sweet glaze that’s perfectly balanced with the warm, nutty aroma of toasted sesame. It’s the kind of meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner cravings. With every bite, you'll be reminded of your favorite takeout—but this time, it’s made right at home, fresh and flavorful. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken (Easy Takeout Recipe)

Better Than Takeout Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious answer to your weeknight dinner struggles, this shrimp and chicken fried rice has you covered. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, flavor-packed skillet meal loaded with protein and vegetables—faster than it takes to order delivery. It’s the perfect fix when you’re craving something takeout-inspired but want to keep things homemade and satisfying. This dish also happens to be a smart way to use up any leftover rice and veggies hanging out in your fridge, making it both convenient and waste-conscious. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just need a reliable go-to meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Better Than Takeout Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a wholesome, stress-free twist on your favorite takeout classic—ideal for hectic weeknights or cozy family meals. It skips the unnecessary extras like added sugar, MSG, and gluten, making it a healthier option without sacrificing any of the flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of sweet, citrusy goodness. Even the pickiest eaters, including kids, will be hooked by its perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent, but leaves you feeling great.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Slow Cooker Shredded Beef

Discover how to create irresistibly tender pulled meat right in your own kitchen with a surprisingly simple technique that consistently outshines your favorite takeout BBQ spots. This easy-to-follow method doesn’t require fancy equipment or years of pitmaster experience—just a little patience and the right spice blend. Our signature seasoning mix brings deep, smoky flavor with just the right balance of sweet, savory, and heat, transforming everyday cuts of meat into something truly special. It’s a game-changing recipe that has helped countless home cooks earn serious bragging rights at family dinners, block parties, and backyard cookouts. Once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought BBQ the same way again.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shredded Beef

Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin

Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. Each tender slice of pork is simmered in a rich, caramelized pineapple glaze that’s both comforting and bold, making it hard to believe it didn’t come from your favorite restaurant. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and your plate with satisfying goodness. Whether you're curled up on a chilly evening or just skipping takeout, this dish delivers warmth, depth, and a little kick of heat—all in one pan.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken is a lighter, feel-good twist on the classic Chinese favorite that doesn’t skimp on bold flavor. The chicken comes out perfectly crispy from the air fryer, then gets coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet red sauce that hits all the right notes. Paired with vibrant bell peppers and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, every bite is both comforting and fresh. This recipe brings all the satisfaction of your go-to takeout order but lets you skip the extra oil and additives, giving you a more wholesome option made right at home. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or craving a better-for-you indulgence, it’s a crowd-pleaser with heart.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Busy weeknights demand quick and simple meals, and this sheet pan beef and broccoli brings all the bold flavors of takeout with minimal effort. Coated in a savory garlic sauce, this dish is both flavorful and easy to clean up. Forget multiple pots or stir-frying—just toss the ingredients on a sheet pan, bake, and enjoy!
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

Steak Stir Fry

This homemade steak stir fry is the kind of meal that makes you forget all about takeout. Juicy, tender strips of beef are marinated to perfection, then tossed in a hot pan with a colorful mix of crisp, fresh vegetables. Everything gets coated in a rich, savory sauce that brings all the flavors together in the most satisfying way. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet delicious enough to impress guests. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap in your favorite veggies or protein and make it just the way you like it.
Get the Recipe: Steak Stir Fry

String Bean Chicken Recipe: Better Than Takeout!

This Chinese string bean chicken recipe is a delicious homemade take on the popular Panda Express dish, but with even more flavor and freshness. Tender, juicy chunks of chicken breast are stir-fried to perfection and paired with crisp, vibrant green beans for a satisfying balance of textures. The savory sauce brings everything together with just the right amount of umami and a touch of sweetness. It’s a quick, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. With each bite, you’ll get that irresistible mix of bold flavor and comforting familiarity.
Get the Recipe: String Bean Chicken Recipe: Better Than Takeout!

Pepper Steak

This easy pepper steak recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, coming together in just 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor. It features tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers that stay crisp-tender, and a rich, savory sauce that brings everything together beautifully. The dish is hearty, comforting, and full of that classic stir-fry flavor you’d expect from your favorite takeout—only fresher and made right in your own kitchen. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or a bowl of noodles for a satisfying and complete meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Steak

Thai Drunken Noodles

If you’re craving something bold, comforting, and just the right amount of spicy, this Thai Drunken Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by your favorite takeout but even better homemade, it’s packed with rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and a satisfying kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds. The best part? You can have it on the table in under an hour, making it a perfect go-to meal for hectic weeknights when time is short but your cravings are strong. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers on both ease and taste.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Butter Chicken

This rich and velvety butter chicken is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to whip up, even if you're new to cooking. It brings all the depth and warmth of your favorite restaurant dish right into your own kitchen—no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients required. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a perfect option for busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting and satisfying. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love, making it a go-to recipe for easy family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

These Chinese boneless spare ribs taste just like the ones you’d get from your favorite takeout spot—only better because you can make them right in your own kitchen. They’re perfectly sticky and sweet, with crispy, caramelized edges and that signature deep red hue that makes them so crave-worthy. The flavors are bold and nostalgic, hitting all the right notes of savory and sweet in every bite. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home, with simple ingredients and a straightforward process. Once you try them, you might never go back to ordering out again.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs