Category: Copycat Recipes

Copycat McDonald’s Arch Deluxe Burgers

Probably no one besides me remembers McDonald’s Arch Deluxe burgers. They were a more grown up burger, launched in the 1990s. They were a flop, but honestly, I’m not sure why. I love making copycat McDonald’s Arch Deluxe burgers at home. They are your pretty-much-standard burgers, but with a sauce that is totally different than the special sauce you find on another favorite, Big Mac. It’s the sauce that makes them special for me. It’s not fancy or complicated, just good.

Copycat Arch Deluxe Burgers

The Sauce Is The Boss. So Is The Seasoning.

The star of the show is definitely the sauce and the special seasoning that McDonald’s uses on all of their burgers, from the Arch Deluxe of old to the classic Quarter Pounder. I always thought that the Arch Deluxe should’ve been a hit (along with the McDLT). Well, I guess I can’t call them all correctly!

I like to use a burger press when I make burgers. It, in combination with some patty papers, enables me to crank out a whole bunch of equally-sized burger patties in no time at all with little cleanup.

Weber Original Burger Press, Black
Weber Original Burger Press, Black

After you devour your copycat Arch Deluxe Burgers you’ll want to make copycats of McDonald’s Cheddar Melt and a Quarter Pounder with Cheese. Trust me.

Copycat Arch Deluxe Burgers
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5 from 2 votes

Copycat Arch Deluxe Burgers

The Arch Deluxe was your pretty-much-standard burger, but with a sauce that is totally different than the special sauce you find on a Big Mac.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers, copycat
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 1 serving
Calories 559kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the burger

  • 1 hamburger bun sesame seed
  • ¼ pound beef patty
  • 1 slice American cheese
  • 1-2 slices tomato
  • 1-2 leaves lettuce chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon white onion chopped

For the burger seasoning (makes enough for several burgers)

For the special sauce

Instructions

For the burger

  • Toast the buns.
  • Season the patty with the burger seasoning from below. Cook as desired.
  • Top the hot beef patty with the cheese.
  • Slather the insides of the bun halves with the special sauce.
  • Add the beef patty to the bottom bun.
  • Add the tomato, lettuce, ketchup, onion and top bun and serve.

For the burger seasoning

  • Combine all ingredients.

For the special sauce

  • Combine all ingredients until smooth.

Notes

The special sauce is great on any burger!

Nutrition

Calories: 559kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 28812mg | Potassium: 569mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 563IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 342mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Outback Steakhouse Green Beans

Green beans are in season, which means I usually grab a pound or so every few days at the grocery store. Although I often grill my green beans if I’m already outside grilling, this copycat Outback Steakhouse green bean recipe is a big favorite of ours. The beans take only a few minutes to make.

Copycat Outback Steakhouse Green Beans

Add Some Orange Things

You can also add carrots to these copycat Outback Steakhouse green beans for a great twist on the restaurant classic. Just peel a few carrots and slice them thin. Put them into the boiling water for a minute or two before adding the beans so they all come out done and tender at the same time. You want the ‘bite’ to be the same between them.

I actually use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make these beans. I was able to make the entire thing in a single pot. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue

For another variation, and one with a little kick, toss in a few pinches (or more) of dried red pepper flake when you saute the beans. Also try my awesome green bean recipe.

Copycat Outback Steakhouse Green Beans
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Outback Steakhouse Green Beans

Although I often grill my green beans if I’m already outside grilling, this copycat Outback Steakhouse green bean recipe is a big favorite of ours. The beans take only a few minutes to make.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, green beans
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 59kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the beans and boil for 6-8 minutes or until just turning tender.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • Melt the butter in a medium sauce pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sugar and let dissolve, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the beans and toss to coat in the butter mixture. Saute for 3-4 minutes, flipping once or twice.
  • Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Notes

You can use any beans you like for a nice variation!

Nutrition

Calories: 59kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 244mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 826IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Schlotsky’s The Original

My wife and I were driving to Nashville, TN, when we passed a sign on the interstate for a Schlotsky’s. I instantly flashed back to the days when we had a Schlotsky’s near where I worked in Indianapolis. It was my favorite lunch spot. I so loved their bread. Sadly, it was early in the morning so the Schlotsky’s was closed. At that moment I went on a journey to recreate my favorite sandwich, Schlotsky’s The Original. This copycat is a fantastic copycat of the classic great sandwich, from the bread to the meats to the garlic dressing.

Copycat Schlotsky's The Original

You’ll Be Rewarded In The End

It may look like it takes a lot of work and ingredients to make a copycat of the Schlotsky’s The Original, but it’s actually quite simple and the end result will more than reward your efforts. The key is the sourdough bread, which comes out light, airy, and full of air bubbles. It holds up perfectly to the ingredients, including my favorite, the garlic mayonnaise. I made a big squeeze bottle of the dressing and also find myself using it on burgers and wraps.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Also try my copycat Denny’s Club Sandwich.

Copycat Schlotsky's The Original
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5 from 2 votes

Copycat Schlotsky’s The Original

This copycat is a fantastic copycat of the classic great sandwich, from the bread to the meats to the garlic dressing.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 519kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Texas Cookin’

Equipment

Ingredients

For the sourdough bread starter

For the bread

For the creamy garlic dressing

For the sandwich

  • Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 8 Cotto salami thin slices
  • 8 Genoa salami thin slices
  • 8 ham sandwich meat thin slices
  • prepared yellow mustard
  • red onion sliced thin
  • tomatoes sliced thin
  • lettuce shredded or chopped
  • black olives sliced

Instructions

For the sourdough bread starter

  • Add the water to a medium bowl.
  • Stir in the yeast and sugar and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  • Stir in the flour.
  • Cover loosely and place in a warm place 8-12 hours.

For the bread

  • Add the warmed milk to a large bowl. Stir in the starter.
  • Stir in the sugar, salt and baking soda until the dry ingredients are dissolved.
  • Add the flour 1/2 cup at a time, stirring to combine until smooth. The dough will end up sticky and thick.
  • Spray two 8″ (or three 6″) pie pans with non-stick spray.
  • Sprinkle the bottoms of the pans with the corn meal.
  • Divide the dough between the pans. Just plop into the centers of the pans. Don’t worry about it being pretty, it’ll spread out as it rises.
  • Lightly spray the tops of the dough with non-stick spray.
  • Loosely cover the pans and let rise for 1 hour in a warm spot. I recommend covering the dough with something that won’t stick to it, such as upside down pie pans.
  • After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 375 F.
  • Spray the tops of the dough again with non-stick spray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove to racks to cool.

For the creamy garlic dressing

  • Whisk together all ingredients. Store in a squirt bottle for easy dispensing.

For the sandwich

  • Cut the bread in half, horizontally.
  • Squirt the bread with the garlic dressing and yellow mustard.
  • Add the remaining sandwich ingredients.
  • Slice into quarters and serve.

Notes

I like to have my cheese melted a bit, so I wrap the assembled sandwiches in foil and insert them into a preheated 350 F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 519kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 894mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 379IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 213mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppy Seed Dressing

Strawberries are in season here and it’s a happy time! I’ve been waiting for this moment to make this copycat of Panera’s strawberry poppy seed dressing. My patience was definitely rewarded and then some. This could easily be my favorite salad dressing of all time. Smooth strawberry flavor with just a bit of sweetness. White balsamic vinegar, while not as cheap as the dark version, is more mellow and adds a great tang.

Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppy Seed Dressing

What Is White Balsamic Vinegar?

I was curious what makes white balsamic vinegar more gentle than dark, so I Googled it. Turns out dark balsamic vinegar is aged for at least twelve years in barrels that have been fired and were previously used for other batches of balsamic vinegar. White balsamic vinegar, on the other hand, is aged at least twelve years in new barrels that have not been fired or used before. That explains the cleaner flavor! It’s perfect in this copycat Panera strawberry poppy seed dressing.

Other Berries Work Too!

After I use up this batch of dressing (read: tonight), I think I’ll try the same recipe but using raspberries instead. Or peaches. I think this same approach could work well with any good in-season fruit.

Check out my new site, Dress My Salad, for more great salad dressing ideas!

Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)
Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)

Also try my copycat of Chipotle’s Honey Vinaigrette.

Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppy Seed Dressing
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppy Seed Dressing

Strawberries are in season. I’ve been waiting for this moment to make this copycat of Panera’s strawberry poppy seed dressing. My patience was definitely rewarded.
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, salad dressing
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 3 cups
Calories 267kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Skinny Mom

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all of the dressing ingredients except the poppy seeds together in a high-speed blender or food processor and mix until smooth.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 267kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 128mg | Potassium: 222mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 13IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

This copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb chicken is exactly why I bought my Char-Broil Big Easy: crazy good chicken. Sure, I cook a lot of things on my Big Easy, but it cooks poultry like you’ve never had. Perfect every time and easy as you can possibly get. These split chicken breasts were packed with herb flavor. The skin was insanely crunchy and soooo tasty. And oh so moist meat. This may be the best chicken I’ve ever made.

Copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb Chicken on the Char-B roil Big Easy

Any Chicken Cuts Will Do

You can use skin-less chicken breasts if you prefer, just rub the herb mixture over the meat. The original recipe was for a whole chicken, which you could also do. But make sure you check the meat temperatures in several places before removing the full bird from the cooker. I prefer split chicken breasts when I make this copycat of Boston Market Tuscan herb chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy..

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

Also try my KFC roasted chicken and my citrus herb marinaded chicken, cooked up easy and delicious on the Big Easy.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb Chicken on the Char-B roil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

This copycat Boston Market Tuscan Herb chicken is exactly why I bought my Char-Broil Big Easy: crazy good chicken. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 271kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy. Spray the basket with non-stick spray.
  • Using your fingers, carefully separate the skin from the chicken meat, creating a pocket between the skin and breast.
  • Combine the oil and the basil, oregano, rosemary and garlic.
  • Rub the mixture between the skin and meat. Be generous with it.
  • Salt and pepper the outsides of the breasts.
  • Place into the Big Easy cooker and cook until the breast meat reaches 165 F. Depending on conditions and the size of the chicken breasts, plan on 10-15 minutes per pound.
  • Remove and devour.

Notes

You’ll need the Char-Broil Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket if you want to cook more than 2 split chicken breasts at a time.

Nutrition

Calories: 271kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 1197mg | Potassium: 874mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 102IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille

We both really enjoyed this copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille sandwich. I had plenty of smoked turkey on hand after smoking a few turkey breasts. The light smoke flavor of the very tender turkey, along with gooey cheese and the best part, a bit of smoky BBQ sauce, really made for a great sandwich. It’s like a grownup take on a grilled cheese.

Copycat Applebee's Clubhouse Grille Sandwich

BBQ Sauce On A Sandwich Is A Good Thing

Any ‘plain’ sandwich can have that little extra something just by adding a bit of BBQ sauce to it. Like this Copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille. Not a lot, you’re not making a pulled pork sandwich. But just enough so you know it is there. You’ll remember it more than just a sandwich with just say, mayonnaise. Remember it the next time you make any sandwich.

I like to cook sandwiches like this one on my Cuisinart Griddler. It gives me the perfectly crispy bread and melted cheese!

Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1
Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1

Also try my copycat of Applebee’s classic patty melt.

Copycat Applebee's Clubhouse Grille Sandwich
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4 from 1 vote

Copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille

We both really enjoyed this copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille sandwich. I had plenty of smoked turkey on hand after smoking a few turkey breasts. The light smoke flavor of the very tender turkey, along with gooey cheese and the best part, a bit of smoky BBQ sauce, really made for a great sandwich. It’s like a grownup take on a grilled cheese.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 1 serving
Calories 1002kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Cincy Shopper

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 slices bread nice and thick
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
  • 2 teaspoon mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 3 slices ham
  • 3 slices turkey
  • 1 slice extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 slice Jack cheese
  • 2 slices bacon cooked
  • 2 slices tomato
  • iceberg lettuce
  • avocado sliced, optional

Instructions

  • Warm a skillet over medium-high heat or fire up a griddle on your grill.
  • Spread butter on one side of each slice of toast.
  • Place butter side down onto the skillet and cook until the butter is melted and the bread is golden brown.
  • Remove to a plate, butter sides down. Slather one bread slice’s un-buttered side with mayonnaise and the other slice’s with the BBQ sauce.
  • Add ham, turkey and cheeses to skillet all in a pile.
  • Heat until the cheeses start to melt.
  • Remove and place on top of a bread slice.
  • Top with bacon, tomato and lettuce and serve.
  • Optional: Add a few thin slices of avocado!

Notes

Texas toast holds up great to these loaded sandwiches!

Nutrition

Calories: 1002kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 54g | Fat: 71g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 202mg | Sodium: 2112mg | Potassium: 738mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1366IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 514mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Shake Shack Sauce

I was jonesin’ pretty bad for a diner burger the other day. Ya know, messy, with traditional toppings. With a great sauce. So I did a quick search around and came across this copycat of the sauce at the Shake Shack. It’s very easy to make, using ingredients that I always have on hand. It really adds a nice, smooth, flavor to a burger. It’s not a big change from what you would normally put on a burger, it just has all the great tastes in one sauce.

Copycat Shake Shack Sauce

Making Burger Sauces Is Fun!

I love making simple, yet delicious, sauces for burgers like this copycat Shake Shack Sauce. They’re a great way to kick up what might be a simple, ‘the usual’ burger.

Also check out my copycat McDonald’s Big Macs, with that awesome McDonald’s sauce. Or my grilled burgers topped with Nancy’s Special burger sauce. It’s similar to McDonald’s sauce, but with a great spicy twist.

Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.
Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.

Also try my BBQ Thousand Island burger sauce.

Copycat Shake Shack Sauce
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Shake Shack Sauce

I was jonesin’ pretty bad for a diner burger the other day. Ya know, messy, with traditional toppings. With a great sauce. This is it.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword burger sauce, copycat
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings 1 cup
Calories 1738kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1738kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 171g | Saturated Fat: 27g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 12887mg | Potassium: 1385mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 3499IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 565mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Denny’s Club Sandwich

This is ALMOST a copycat version of Denny’s club sandwich. I had to add a slight twist. After enjoying a copycat of Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille sandwich, which has BBQ sauce slathered on the bread, I just had to do the same with this club sandwich. Otherwise, yeah, it’s a spot-on fantastic copycat of the classic.

I love the tang of the BBQ sauce. I used a hickory-smoked flavored sauce, which I think is the perfect sauce for this sandwich.

Copycat Denny's Club Sandwich

This Is The Perfect Club Sandwich

Now, if BBQ sauce isn’t your thing, substituting Sriracha instead would make for a totally different (and yummy spicy) copycat Denny’s Club sandwich. In fact, that’s a great idea. I am going to make my next club sandwich with Sriracha on it instead! I’m glad I thought of it!

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Also try my deviled egg salad sandwich.

Copycat Denny's Club Sandwich
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Denny’s Club Sandwich

This is ALMOST a copycat version of Denny’s club sandwich. I had to add a slight twist.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 2 sandwiches
Calories 743kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bread
  • 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 4 ounces turkey breast thinly sliced sandwich meat
  • 4 ounces ham thinly sliced sandwich meat
  • ½ cup Iceberg lettuce shredded or leaves
  • 4 slices bacon cooked
  • 4 slices tomato

Instructions

  • Toast the bread as desired.
  • Slather one side of two of the slices of the bread with mayonnaise.
  • Top with some lettuce, a slice of tomato, a slice of bacon, and the turkey.
  • Top each sandwich stack with a piece of bread.
  • Add more lettuce, tomato, another slice of bacon, and the ham.
  • Slather one side of two other slices of the bread with BBQ sauce (optional).
  • Add to sandwich.
  • Secure with toothpicks or skewers and serve.

Notes

For a nice twist, use a spicy BBQ sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 743kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 1790mg | Potassium: 736mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 618IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 146mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Applebee’s Sriracha Shrimp

We recently grabbed a quick lunch at the Applebee’s in Springfield, Ohio, meeting up with some old friends before heading over to one of our favorite places, the Heart of Ohio Antique Center. We knew we could rely on Applebee’s for good food and a nice environment to sit and chat for a bit. I decided to have an appetizer, so I ordered the Sriracha shrimp. As soon as I bit into one I knew I was going to make a copycat Applebee’s Sriracha shrimp when I got home.

Copycat Applebee's Sriracha Shrimp

Sorta Spicy, Definitely Great

Lightly battered shrimp, lightly fried, then tossed in a great Sriracha mayonnaise sauce. This is exactly as I remember except I left the Sriracha sauce on the side for dipping.

Sauce On The Side

The nice thing about keeping the sauce on the side is that these copycat Applebee’s Sriracha shrimp stay nice and lightly crunchy, instead of getting a bit soggy when covered in the sauce. You can serve it whichever way you like, of course. I also used larger shrimp because… I love shrimp.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my copycats of Applebee’s fantastic Buffalo wings and peppercorn and garlic shrimp and (the new defunct) Joe’s Crab Shack popcorn shrimp.

Copycat Applebee's Sriracha Shrimp
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4.50 from 4 votes

Copycat Applebee’s Sriracha Shrimp

Lightly battered shrimp, lightly fried, then tossed in a great Sriracha mayonnaise sauce. This is exactly as I remember except I left the Sriracha sauce on the side for dipping.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, shrimp, spicy
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 222kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the shrimp

For the Sriracha dipping sauce

Instructions

For the shrimp

  • Preheat 1/2″ of oil in a Dutch oven to 350 F.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, cayenne and garlic powder.
  • Whisk in the club soda until smooth.
  • Add the shrimp to the batter and coat well on all sides.
  • Shake off excess batter and add to hot oil.
  • Fry shrimp 3 minutes, then flip and fry another 2 minutes.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve with dipping sauce on the side.

For the Sriracha dipping sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients.

Notes

The dipping sauce is also great for dipping chicken nuggets!

Nutrition

Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 194mg | Sodium: 907mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 46IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 116mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Wendy’s Chili

My wife and I were on our way to Gatlinburg, TN, tootin’ along down the interstate, when lunch time crept up on us. A glance at the GPS showed that our choices were pretty much fast food or nothing. A hankerin’ for a Wendy’s burger came over me, so into Wendy’s we went. My wife got the chili. And it was good, which of course meant that I instantly started searching for a copycat version of Wendy’s chili. And here it is. A little thicker than the real deal served at Wendy’s, but definitely a great copycat of the fast food favorite.

Copycat Wendy's Chili

Easy And Delicious

This copycat Wendy’s chili is about as easy as you can get to make, yet it is quite tasty and has great texture. It’s not hot, but it can be by just adding cayenne or substituting hot chili powder for the mild. You can also substitute cubed chuck for the ground beef for a more traditional chili. Cincinnati chili lovers need only add a bit of cinnamon. And yes, if you like your chili with pasta, you can serve it over pasta.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this chili and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue

Also try my copycat of Cin Chili, the best chili mix ever.

Copycat Wendy's Chili
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Wendy’s Chili

Here it is. A little thicker than the real deal served at Wendy’s, but definitely a great copycat of the fast food favorite.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chili, copycat
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 483kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Brown ground beef in a large pot. Drain.
  • Add the water. Bring to a boil, then drain completely to remove more fat.
  • Add remaining ingredients.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and simmer for 3 hours, stirring often.

Notes

Top with a cooling dollop of sour cream!

Nutrition

Calories: 483kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 438mg | Potassium: 1104mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1049IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 119mg | Iron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)