15 recipes that will help you quit takeout

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We’ve all been there—staring at the takeout menu, trying to justify ordering in yet again. But what if you could make something just as delicious at home, without the wait or the extra cost? These 15 recipes are your secret weapon to breaking up with takeout for good. They’re easy, delicious, and guaranteed to satisfy those cravings without picking up the phone.

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re aiming to cut down on takeout, a dish like Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake can transform your dining routine. It’s a comforting meal that combines familiar flavors in a rich and hearty way, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or quiet nights in. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, depending on your preference.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Quesabirria Tacos

Overhead shot of quesabirria tacos with lime wedges.
Quesabirria Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine a meal that can outshine any takeout option; Quesabirria Tacos are just that. These tacos bring a vibrant flair to your dining table, merging juicy, tender elements with a crisp outer texture that’s impossible to resist. They’re particularly great for social gatherings or a family weekend treat, promising a fun and interactive dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

Hoisin Beef

A white bowl with rice and hoisin ground beef and chopsticks on the side.
Hoisin Beef. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking to replace takeout with homemade meals, Hoisin Beef offers a tantalizing alternative. This recipe provides a robust flavor profile that stands as a cornerstone for an impressive home-cooked meal. It’s particularly suited for quick weeknight dinners, where time is of the essence but flavor is not compromised.
Get the Recipe: Hoisin Beef

Pizza Carbonara

A close-up of a pizza slice topped with a runny egg yolk, grated cheese, bacon bits, and black pepper.
Pizza Carbonara. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Ditching takeout can be delicious with options like Pizza Carbonara. This recipe offers a twist on traditional pizza, incorporating elements that make it a standout for dinner parties or a special family meal. It’s a comforting choice that promises to be as filling as it is flavorful, making each slice a hearty bite.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Carbonara

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicing up mealtime without resorting to takeout is easy with Camarones a la Diabla. This dish is fiery and packed with flavor, offering a bold choice for those who appreciate a bit of heat. It’s perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a flavorful weekend treat. It’s a quick-to-prepare meal that doesn’t skimp on excitement.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Beef Yakisoba

Beef yakisoba noodles with veggies and pickled ginger.
Beef Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a perfect alternative to takeout, turn to Beef Yakisoba. This recipe is a quick and easy option that brings the essence of street food right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for those days when you need something straightforward yet fulfilling. Plus, it serves well as both a main dish and a side, providing flexibility depending on your meal needs.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yakisoba

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bringing the heat to your kitchen instead of ordering out is simple with Szechuan Shrimp. This dish is vibrant and spicy, making it a great pick for anyone looking to kick up their dinner routine. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special, this recipe promises a fiery treat in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cutting back on takeout is a breeze when you have recipes like Beef Birria at your disposal. This dish is steeped in tradition and brimming with deep, complex flavors that are sure to impress. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend cooking project or a festive gathering. What makes this dish stand out is its versatility, turning your meal into an interactive and enjoyable experience.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork

A bowl of rice topped with stir-fried tofu cubes and minced vegetables, garnished with green onions. Chopsticks rest on top.
Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for something hearty and full of flavor, Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork is an excellent choice. This dish is well-loved for its depth of flavor and texture. It’s perfect for those seeking a bold meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Ideal for adventurous eaters, this recipe proves that homemade meals can be both exciting and rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork

Dan Dan Noodles

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dan Dan Noodles is a fantastic solution for noodle lovers looking to recreate a classic takeout dish at home. This dish boasts a combination of textures and flavors that can outshine even your local noodle shop. It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for a weeknight treat. The allure of this dish is strong among those who crave a quick, flavorful meal without the hassle of waiting for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking to spice up your meal routine, Harissa Chicken offers a vibrant blend of flavors that will bring the heat to your dining table. This dish is celebrated for its bold spices and rich aroma. It’s a wonderful choice for those evenings when you crave something different. This recipe is both invigorating and easy to prepare, ensuring a deliciously spicy dinner is always within reach.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Kerala Fish Curry

Fish curry in an earthenware baking dish.
Kerala Fish Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kerala Fish Curry is a dish that transports you straight to the coast of Southern India with its aromatic flavors. This recipe is revered for its ability to combine simple elements into something truly extraordinary. It’s ideal for those looking to diversify their culinary repertoire with international flavors. It offers an alternative to your usual fish dish, saving you a trip to a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry

Spicy Miso Ramen

A bowl of ramen with karaage chicken.
Spicy Miso Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is an all-time favorite for its robust flavors and soothing broth. Spicy Miso Ramen is a comforting bowl that satisfies deep cravings for warm, noodle-rich meals. It’s a perfect choice for cooler nights or when you need a fulfilling meal that feels like a warm embrace. This recipe ensures that delicious, restaurant-level ramen is just a kitchen away, helping curb the temptation to order out.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen

Green Chili Chicken Soup

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those chilly evenings when you need something warming, Green Chili Chicken Soup provides a comforting and flavorful solution. It’s an excellent alternative to your standard chicken soup, offering a twist that invigorates. This recipe is a popular pick among those looking to replace bland meals with something more dynamic.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Blackened Fish Tacos bring a bit of zing to your weeknight dinner options. This dish stands out for its bold seasoning and the perfect char that adds a smoky depth to every bite. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a fast and flavorful meal. These tacos are a surefire way to inject some excitement into your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

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