Your wallet won’t hate you for trying these 17 money-saving copycat recipes

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Who doesn’t love to save money without sacrificing tasty meals? Try out 17 recipes that mimic some of the most popular dishes, making it easier to treat yourself without breaking the bank. These recipes are perfect for anyone trying to eat well on a budget. Save a few bucks and create mouthwatering dinners that will leave you and your wallet very happy. Forget ordering in tonight and whip up something delicious right at home.

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

A plate of German pot roast beef with a sauce being poured over it.
Slow Cooker German Pot Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need something hearty but cost-effective, Slow Cooker German Pot Roast is your go-to. There’s no need to order out when you can whip up such a dish at home. Using a slow cooker, you simply set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weekdays. The rich flavors develop over time, giving you restaurant-quality results without the hefty price tag. This recipe is budget-friendly yet doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker German Pot Roast

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving pizza but not the cost, Pizza Pasta Salad is the answer. This option combines the familiar flavors you love but in a cold, salad form. It’s a great choice for lunches or potlucks, making meal prep a breeze. This mix of pasta and favorite toppings is light on your wallet. Not only does it save money, but it’s also a fun way to enjoy pizza without ordering out. You’ll find this recipe to be a staple for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving Italian but want to save some cash? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings the authentic taste of Italy to your home. Forget about reservations; you can make this delicious dish without stepping out. Its rich, creamy sauce tastes like you splurged, but actually, you didn’t. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying at home. Get ready to have this as a regular on your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For those who love sandwich shops, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is a great way to save. You get all the flavors of a classic sandwich shop favorite without paying restaurant prices. It’s simple to make and perfect for quick meals. Budget-friendly and delicious, this sandwich might become your new lunchtime routine. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Your family will request this often.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something different but budget-friendly? Sweet Potato Cornbread fits the bill. This twist on a classic cornbread brings added flavor and nutrition to your meal. It’s easy to make and goes well with various dishes. Bake a batch, and you’ll have a versatile side that doesn’t strain your budget. This is one recipe you’ll find yourself making over and over.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

A plate of breakfast casserole on a black plate.
Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Breakfast can be challenging, especially without eggs, but Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage makes it easy. It’s both filling and cost-effective. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or those looking to try something new. Make it ahead of time and have breakfast ready for several days. This dish is sure to become a staple in your morning routine. Plus, it’s a great way to save time and money.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

Cream of Onion Soup

Two bowls of cream onion soup on a wooden table.
Cream of Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a warm and comforting meal, Cream of Onion Soup is your go-to. This soup is rich and delicious, ideal for those cooler days. Making it at home will save you significantly compared to dining out. Easy to prepare and deeply flavorful, it’s a winner for lunch or dinner. It’s one of those dishes that feels much fancier than it is. You’ll love having this recipe in your back pocket.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving some good appetizers? Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots deliver big on flavor without costing a lot. These loaded tots are perfect for parties or as a fun side dish. They’re easy to make and taste just like what you’d order. Saving money has never tasted so good. Make a platter of these, and they’ll be gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re on a tight budget, Ukrainian Potatoes are a lifesaver. This dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s simple to prepare and uses ingredients you may already have. The flavors meld together beautifully without costing much. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with various mains. Make this a staple in your meal planning routine.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a cozy, budget-friendly soup, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is hard to beat. This hearty soup is perfect for those colder months. Making it at home can save you a lot compared to dining out. Rich and filling, it’s an ideal meal for lunch or dinner. You’ll appreciate how much you save while enjoying such a comforting dish. It’s bound to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want something flavorful and budget-friendly for dinner? Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef fits the bill. This dish is versatile; you can turn it into tacos, burritos, or serve over rice. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you get all the marvelous flavors of Mexican cuisine without restaurant prices. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for easy, flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Birria de Res

Two white bowls filled with slow cooker birria garnished with fresh lime wedges.
Birria de Res. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a rich and delicious meal, look no further than Birria de Res. This traditional dish brings deep, flavorful results without extreme costs. Perfect for family meals or feeding a crowd, it offers great value. You won’t miss dining out with this in your rotation. The long-cooking process makes it convenient while developing amazing flavors. This is a must-try for anyone looking to save money but eat well.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Beef & Broccoli

Beef and broccoli stir-fry with sesame seeds served on a white plate with chopsticks.
Beef & Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you enjoy takeout but want to save money, Beef & Broccoli is a fantastic option. This dish brings all the flavors you love right to your kitchen. Quick and simple to prepare, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule. Save a ton by skipping delivery and making this at home. The combination of beef and broccoli covers both protein and veggies in one dish. You’ll wonder why you ever ordered out.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli

Low Carb Breakfast Sausage

Breakfast sausage on a plate with an egg and berries.
Low Carb Breakfast Sausage. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a healthier breakfast that’s also cost-effective, Low Carb Breakfast Sausage is ideal. Making it yourself allows you to control the ingredients and save money. It’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a quick grab-and-go option. Delicious and nutritious, you’ll prefer this over store-bought options. This recipe will keep you on track and under budget. Make a batch and enjoy breakfast without worry.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Breakfast Sausage

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something new and economical? Greek Spaghetti is a great choice. This dish blends Mediterranean flavors into a delicious pasta meal. It’s simple to make and easy on the wallet. Perfect for weeknights or a quick family dinner. You’ll love how budget-friendly this delicious meal is. One bite, and it will be a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Ground Beef and Broccoli

A plate of beef and broccoli with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a quick and cost-effective meal, consider Ground Beef and Broccoli. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef with fresh broccoli. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy nights. No need for takeout when you can whip this up at home. You’ll save time and money while enjoying a nutritious meal. Keep this recipe as a go-to solution for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Need comfort food without a high price tag? Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole offers just that. It’s a warm, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Easy to prepare, it uses ingredients you likely already have. This casserole is budget-friendly and deeply delicious, making it a favorite for many. Keep this recipe on hand for comforting meals that don’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

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