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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    19 "Fakeout" Recipes Better Than Actual Takeout

    Published: May 12, 2026 by Emmeline Kemperyd · post_comments]

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    If you're craving takeout but want to whip up something at home, these 20 meals are perfect for you. They're easy to make and packed with flavor, so you won't even miss your favorite restaurant dishes. From Thai favorites to spring rolls and dumplings, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without the delivery fee.

    Larb Gai

    Larb gai.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This Thai chicken salad packs a flavorful punch and is delicious on its own or served with rice. It's a satisfying meal that will remind you of your favorite takeout.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp Mei Fun

    Shrimp mei fun.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This shrimp and rice noodle dish brings the flavors of takeout right to your kitchen. It's easy to prepare and perfect for a quick meal.

    Get the recipe

    Pad See Ew

    Pad See Ew.
    Photo credit: Inquiring Chef.

    This classic Thai noodle stir-fry uses wide rice noodles tossed in a flavorful brown sauce. It's a satisfying homemade dish that you'll enjoy.

    Get the recipe

    Ramen With Extras

    Vegetable Ramen with Spicy Miso Broth
    Photo credit: Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Transform your ramen noodles into something special with just a few easy additions. This dish is a fun and tasty alternative to takeout.

    Get the recipe

    Orange Chicken

    orange chicken with rice.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This orange chicken is simple to prepare and has a flavor that rivals your favorite takeout. It might even be better than what you get from the restaurant!

    Get the recipe

    Homemade Hamburgers

    air fryer hamburger.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Homemade burgers are a great choice any night of the week. With just some quality ground beef and a handful of spices, you can whip up a delicious meal in a short amount of time.

    Get the recipe

    Kung Pao Spaghetti

    Kung Pao Spaghetti.
    Photo credit: Spice Cravings.

    Satisfy your craving for Chinese takeout with this delicious Kung Pao Spaghetti. This quick dish combines pasta, chicken, and veggies in a homemade kung pao sauce, topped with peanuts and spring onions, making it a great option for a family dinner in just 30 minutes.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce

    Chicken enchiladas with green sauce.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    These chicken enchiladas with green sauce require only 10 minutes of prep and make the perfect comfort food any night of the week. This flavor-packed dish features garlic-infused chicken wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with melted cheese and the best green chile sauce. Make it all from scratch, or start halfway - your choice!

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Tikka Kebab

    Chicken Tikka Kebab
    Photo Credit: Piping Pot Curry.

    This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to satisfy. Marinate chicken in yogurt, lime juice, and spices, then grill it on skewers until perfectly cooked.

    Get the recipe

    Thai Curry Fried Rice

    Thai curry fried rice.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish uses leftover rice and is loaded with flavor and vegetables. It's a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Miso Mushroom Ramen

    a bowl of miso mushroom ramen.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    A quick dashi broth combined with flavorful mushrooms creates a satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for when you want something delicious without the hassle of takeout.

    Get the recipe

    Shrimp Curry

    Shrimp curry in a skillet.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    This Shrimp Curry is packed with flavor and is super easy to make. With Thai red curry paste and coconut milk, it comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

    Get the recipe

    Beef Chow Fun

    beef chow fun.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish combines marinated beef and noodles for a satisfying meal. It's a great option when you're craving something comforting and filling.

    Get the recipe

    Green Curry Spaghetti

    A bowl of fried spaghetti with green curry.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish puts a fun spin on a classic Bangkok favorite by combining the rich flavors of green curry with spaghetti. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting meal that feels like takeout but is made right at home.

    Get the recipe

    Pad Woon Sen (Thai Glass Noodle Sti Fry)

    Pad Woon Sen (Thai Glass Noodle Sti Fry).
    Photo credit: Foodess.

    Thai glass noodle stir fry, or Pad Woon Sen, is a delicious dish featuring glass noodles, chicken, and fresh vegetables tossed in a tasty sauce. It's a satisfying meal that's quick to prepare, perfect for a delightful dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Massaman Chicken Curry

    A bowl of massaman chicken curry.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This meal is super easy to prepare and only requires one pot. It's a great option when you want something quick and satisfying without the hassle of takeout.

    Get the recipe

    Pizza

    Pizza made with spelt pizza dough.
    Image credit: Katie Trant.

    Pizza is quick and simple to whip up at home, especially when you have some dough ready in the freezer. It's a great option for a cozy night in.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Dumplings

    A dumpling picked up with chop sticks.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    Air Fryer Dumplings are a quick and tasty appetizer or meal that you can have ready in just 10 minutes. With a little oil, they turn out perfectly cooked with crispy edges, perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.

    Get the recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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