Put down the menu: 25 restaurant eats you can make at home

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Let’s talk about the perks of home cooking. Sure, restaurant dining is an experience, but there’s something undeniably satisfying about crafting a gourmet meal with your own two hands. Enter these 25 recipes – all inspired by top-notch restaurant dishes. Forget the overpriced dishes or the frustration of not getting your preferred table. Roll up those sleeves, dive into these recipes, and enjoy the sheer pleasure of making restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your home. And hey, the bragging rights? Totally worth it.

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Remember that lip-smacking Chicken Tinga you always order from your favorite restaurant? Well, guess what? You can recreate that tantalizing experience right in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, put down that menu, grab your apron, and let’s embark on a flavorful journey that’s as good as any eatery’s offering. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this delicious Chicken Tinga recipe.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something that’s not just delicious but also quick and easy to make? Look no further! These air-fried honey garlic chicken thighs are here to rescue your dinner plans. Imagine the crispy, golden-brown exterior meeting juicy, succulent chicken on the inside—all without the need for a restaurant. So, forget about takeout tonight and savor the taste of restaurant-quality chicken in the comfort of your own home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tired of the same old dinner routine? It’s time to infuse your meals with a taste of the Mediterranean. This Mediterranean cod recipe brings the elegance of a gourmet seafood restaurant right to your dining table. Succulent cod, infused with aromatic herbs and Mediterranean flavors, creates a dish that’s not just delicious but also reminiscent of your favorite coastal eatery. So, why wait for a reservation when you can whip up this exquisite dish at home?
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever dreamt of savoring those melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs from that upscale steakhouse? Well, dream no more! With this recipe, you can make restaurant-quality beef short ribs in your very own kitchen. Imagine tender, succulent beef, slow-braised to perfection, infused with the rich aroma of garlic. It’s a dish that will make you wonder why you ever needed to dine out for such a culinary delight. So, forget the reservation; it’s time to create your own steakhouse experience at home.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Close your eyes and imagine a plate of Italian chicken so delicious that it transports you straight to the heart of Italy. Well, you don’t need a passport for that journey; you just need this Italian chicken recipe. With tender chicken, zesty flavors, and a hint of fragrant herbs, it’s like having your favorite Italian restaurant in your kitchen. So, put down the menu, grab your apron, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that’s all about savoring the Italian goodness at home.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Leftover Roast Beef Stew

Leftover roast beef stroganoff on a plate with green beans in the background.
Leftover Roast Beef Stew. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You know that feeling when you have leftover roast beef, and you’re not quite sure what to do with it? Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to a hearty, comforting meal. This leftover roast beef stew is the answer to your dilemma. Imagine transforming those leftover beef slices into a rich, savory stew that’s as satisfying as any dish from your go-to diner. So, instead of reaching for the takeout menu, turn your kitchen into a cozy diner, and indulge in homemade goodness.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Stew

Birria Tacos

Birria Tacos on a plate with consomme.
Birria Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tacos with a twist! The rich and flavorful birria meat inside these tacos is a game-changer. Once you try them, regular tacos might just take a back seat. With tender, juicy meat that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, wrapped in warm tortillas, and served with a side of flavorful consommé, these Birria Tacos are the reason you’ll put down the restaurant menu and embrace the joy of homemade Mexican cuisine. Get ready for a taco night like no other!
Get the Recipe: Birria Tacos

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a gourmet experience without the gourmet restaurant price tag? Look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Picture this: crispy, golden chicken breasts stuffed with gooey cheese and savory ham, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a dish that combines the elegance of a fine dining restaurant with the convenience of home cooking. So, why bother with reservations when you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Smoked Tomahawk Steak

A sliced Tomahawk Steak on a cream color plate.
Smoked Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Are you ready to take your steak game to the next level? Say goodbye to the steakhouse and hello to your own culinary prowess. This Smoked Tomahawk Steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture a beautifully marbled, massive ribeye steak, smoked to perfection, and oozing with flavor. It’s a showstopper that’s as impressive in taste as it is in presentation. So, put down that restaurant menu and fire up your smoker; it’s time to savor greatness at home.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomahawk Steak

Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed red peppers on a white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’ve ever marveled at the exquisite stuffed peppers from your favorite seafood restaurant, it’s time to bring that experience into your kitchen. These Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a delightful mix of textures and tastes, combining succulent seafood with the sweetness of bell peppers. Each bite is a journey through flavors and aromas that will make you forget about the restaurant menu altogether. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this homemade masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Two large bowls of tortellini with meatballs on a counter.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving Italian comfort food that’s as good as your favorite Italian restaurant’s fare? Look no further. This Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs recipe will transport you to the heart of Italy with every bite. Imagine tender tortellini bathed in a rich, flavorful sauce, accompanied by juicy meatballs. It’s a dish that speaks of homey Italian goodness, and it’s ready to take center stage on your dinner table. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade Italian bliss.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it comes to barbecue, nothing quite beats the smoky, finger-licking goodness of those barbecue joints you love. But what if you could bring that magic to your backyard? These Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze are here to make that happen. Picture perfectly smoked chicken legs, kissed with a sweet and spicy red pepper glaze. It’s a flavor explosion that rivals the best barbecue places in town. So, put down the restaurant menu, fire up your grill, and let the backyard barbecue begin!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine savoring a perfectly grilled ribeye cap steak that’s so tender and juicy it melts in your mouth. That’s the kind of experience you’d expect at a high-end steakhouse, right? Well, here’s a secret: you can create that experience right in your own kitchen. This Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak recipe promises just that. It’s all about achieving that ideal balance of succulence and flavor that you typically associate with top-notch restaurants. So, forget the reservation; it’s time to become the chef you’ve always admired.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Steak skewers on a white plate with chilis nearby.
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving the sizzling delights of those skewers you enjoy at the trendy grill house? You’re in luck! These Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo sauce will bring that same excitement to your backyard barbecue. Picture succulent steak bites skewered and grilled to perfection, then generously brushed with zesty Mojo Rojo sauce. It’s a flavor-packed journey that’s perfect for gatherings, cookouts, or whenever you simply want to enjoy restaurant-quality eats at home. So, put down that restaurant menu and grab your grill tongs—it’s time to shine as the grill master you were born to be.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Smoked Beef Kabobs

Smoked beef kabobs on a plate.
Smoked Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You know that unmistakable smoky flavor of those beef kabobs from your favorite smokehouse? Well, good news: you can now recreate that smoky magic at home. These Smoked Beef Kabobs are all about capturing that quintessential smokiness and infusing it into tender beef, creating a dish that’s nothing short of heavenly. So, say goodbye to takeout and hello to the art of smoking and grilling in your own backyard. Get ready for a feast that’s as good as, if not better than, anything you’d find on a restaurant menu.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Kabobs

Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire pudding pie in a white glass dish.
Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Have you ever longed for a taste of Britain’s classic roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, just like the one served at that charming British pub? Well, the good news is you can bring that taste straight to your own kitchen. This Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding recipe is here to make it happen. Imagine tender, juicy roast beef paired with fluffy, golden Yorkshire pudding—a match made in British culinary heaven. So, before you consider dining out, consider turning your kitchen into a slice of Britain right at home.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Yorkshire Pudding

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving comfort food that’s as indulgent as your favorite pasta place? Look no further. These Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are here to satisfy your every cheesy craving. Picture jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a luscious, creamy cheese mixture, then smothered in a savory sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s sure to make you forget about ordering in. So, put down that menu and embrace the cheesy goodness that awaits in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

A bowl of sausage and peppers.
Blackstone Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Remember those juicy sausages and vibrant peppers you adore from your local food joint? Well, get ready to recreate that magic. This Blackstone Sausage & Peppers recipe brings together the best of both worlds—succulent sausage and colorful peppers—all in one skillet. It’s a dish that’s comforting, full of flavor, and ready to take center stage at your dinner table. So, before you think about takeout, think about the sizzle and aroma of this homemade delight.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving the smoky goodness of Al Pastor without the food truck line? Say hello to this Smoked Chicken Al Pastor recipe. It’s all about capturing the essence of smokiness, tanginess, and spice that you love from your favorite Mexican eatery. Picture tender, marinated chicken with all the bold flavors, grilled to perfection. It’s a dish that’s as good as, if not better than, the one on the restaurant menu. So, put down that phone and fire up the grill—it’s time to bring the taco truck experience right to your backyard.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

German Pork Loin

German Pork Loin on a platter with a gravy boat nearby.
German Pork Loin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to savor the flavors of Germany without the long flight or restaurant bill? Well, you can with this German Pork Loin recipe. Imagine tender pork loin, perfectly cooked and lightly seasoned to let the natural flavors shine. It’s a dish that’s a testament to how sometimes, simplicity is key. So, why wait for reservations when you can bring a taste of Germany to your own dining table? Put down that menu and prepare to be transported to the heart of Europe right from your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: German Pork Loin

Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sure, there are plenty of seafood restaurants out there, but none can quite replicate the joy of homemade goodness. This Seafood Stuffed Salmon is the perfect example. Picture succulent salmon, stuffed with a medley of seafood delights, creating a dish that’s not just visually stunning but also a delightful surprise of flavors and textures with each bite. It’s a must-try for seafood enthusiasts, and it’s proof that the best seafood dishes can be found right in your own kitchen. So, forget about the restaurant menu and embrace the delicious adventure that awaits at home.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers

Smoked Pork & Pineapple Kabobs on a plate for serving.
Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a tropical treat with a smoky twist that’s usually reserved for that island-themed restaurant? You’re in for a treat! These Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers bring together the best of both worlds—savory, smoky pork and sweet, juicy pineapple—all skewered and grilled to perfection. It’s a flavor combination that’s both satisfying and refreshing, making you wonder why you ever needed takeout in the first place. So, before you think about a restaurant menu, think about the backyard barbecue experience that’s about to happen in your own home.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to switch up your pasta night with something unique and delicious, like the dish from the chic bistro down the street? You’re in luck. These Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto offer a refreshing take on pasta night. Imagine jumbo pasta shells generously stuffed with seasoned turkey and bathed in a vibrant pesto sauce. It’s a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and a bit different from the norm, perfect for those looking to elevate their pasta game at home. So, say goodbye to takeout and hello to a memorable homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Blackstone Smash Burger

A burger held in two hands.
Blackstone Smash Burger. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a burger that’s so good it could rival any you’ve had at that hip joint in town? Well, you’re about to create just that with this Blackstone Smash Burger recipe. Picture this: a burger with crispy edges, a juicy center, and all the classic fixings that make a burger a burger. It’s a culinary masterpiece that’s so satisfying you’ll forget about the restaurant wait times. So, before you reach for that takeout menu, reach for your skillet and get ready to become the burger king or queen of your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Those quesadillas from the local Mexican eatery are good, no doubt. But yours? They’re about to be legendary. With this Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas recipe, you’re in for a treat that’s both tantalizing and downright delicious. Imagine tender chicken marinated in Al Pastor spices, a touch of heat, gooey cheese, all encased in a crispy tortilla. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and it’s proof that you don’t need a restaurant menu to enjoy top-notch quesadillas. So, before you think about takeout, think about the sizzle and flavor that await you in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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