Category: Copycat Recipes

Copycat PF Chang’s Crispy Honey Chicken

I don’t know how much chicken you get when you order the crispy honey chicken at PF Chang’s. After taking a bite of this copycat PF Chang’s crispy honey chicken I knew how much I was going to get when I made it at home: a lot. The coating was perfectly crunchy. The chicken was moist, tender, with a hint of soy sauce. And the sauce, oh yes, the sauce, was a wonderful combination of Asian-inspired flavors with a hint of sweetness.

Copycat PF Chang's Crispy Honey Chicken

You Can Spice It Up Too!

The next time I make this copycat PF Chang’s crispy honey chicken I might add just a bit of heat to the chicken seasoning. Not much, but I prefer a little kick with my sweet. Some red pepper flake will take it up a notch.

Depending on how many people I’m serving, I’ll either break out my big deep fryer or, if it’s just us two, I’ll use my lil ole Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size of just a few people. It only uses a few cups of oil, so I save big time on oil. And it’s super easy to clean up.

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

I served the chicken over my super-easy slow cooker rice.

Also try my copycat Panda Express SweetFire chicken.

Copycat PF Chang's Crispy Honey Chicken
Print Pin
4 from 2 votes

Copycat PF Chang’s Crispy Honey Chicken

The coating was perfectly crunchy. The chicken was moist, tender, with a hint of soy sauce. And the sauce, oh yes, the sauce, was a wonderful combination of Asian-inspired flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Asian, chicken, crispy
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 532kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 1 pound chicken breast boneless, skinless, cut into chunks
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • rice cooked and warmed, for serving

For the batter

For the chicken seasoning

For the sauce

Instructions

For the chicken

  • Place chicken into a resealable. container.
  • Combine the chicken seasoning ingredients and sprinkle over the chicken.
  • Seal and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  • Whisk together the batter ingredients and refrigerate for 1 hour.
  • Heat 3″ of oil to 350 F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven.
  • Meanwhile, make the sauce by whisking together all but the cornstarch and water in a medium saucepan.
  • Bring to a simmer. Whisk together the cornstarch and water and slowly whisk into the sauce.
  • Let simmer until thickened then reduce heat.
  • Keep warm until ready to use.
  • Add chicken to batter and, working in batches, fry until done, about 5 minutes per piece. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.
  • Serve chicken over rice with plenty of sauce.

Notes

This dish is also great prepared using boneless, skinless thighs.

Nutrition

Calories: 532kcal | Carbohydrates: 86g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 113mg | Sodium: 1353mg | Potassium: 521mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 53g | Vitamin A: 93IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg

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 TGI Friday’s Mandarin Orange Sesame Dressing

I am always looking for new salad dressing recipes for when we have salad week. We usually have salad week if we have over-indulged the week before or if we have eaten out too many meals while traveling. This copycat TGI Friday’s Mandarin orange sesame dressing is so good! I like that it has chopped Mandarin oranges for texture. I also added Mandarin oranges to the salad to tie it all together. The orange marmalade and the honey balance out the sesame oil. Sesame oil is such a strong flavor so you can use a little less if preferred, but I love the taste of it.

Copycat TGI Friday’s Mandarin Orange Sesame Dressing

The Perfect Balance

This copycat TGI Fridays Mandarin orange sesame dressing is one of the best homemade dressings that we have made! This dressing would be good as a dipping sauce for chicken nuggets. It would also be great as a sauce for crudités.

I find myself using these little cups more and more for my salad dressings. Normally I use them for dipping my chicken nuggets, wings, or chicken tenders. But they’re also great for salad dressings. As a bonus, they help me control my serving amount, which is needed around salad dressings like this one.

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

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

Copycat TGI Friday’s Mandarin Orange Sesame Dressing
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat TGI Friday’s Mandarin Orange Sesame Dressing

This copycat TGI Fridays Mandarin orange sesame dressing is one of the best homemade dressings that we have ever made!
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, salad dressing, TGI Friday
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 cups
Calories 1036kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place everything except for the mandarin into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
  • Transfer to a resealable container. Add the oranges, cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1036kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 94g | Saturated Fat: 62g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Sodium: 1038mg | Potassium: 119mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 52g | Vitamin A: 551IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 31mg | 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 KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Oh I’ve made fru-fru mac-and-cheese before. Heck, I’ve made the stuff out of the box before. But ya know, this copycat KFC macaroni and cheese puts them all to shame. It’s crazy easy to make, like most stove-top versions. And it’s soooo creamy. And yummy. You can make an absolutely huge batch of this in no time and feed a crowd. Or you can keep it for yourself. It’s your call.

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Ok, So I Added Something…

Ok, the recipe for copycat KFC macaroni and cheese does not call for a light dusting of paprika before serving. That was my idea. You don’t have to do it. Or you can use cayenne for a little kick. I like putting a little something on top to add a little color or even a bit of heat. I’m quite sure the original version from Kentucky Fried Chicken had neither paprika or cayenne!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my copycat KFC bean salad.

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat KFC Macaroni and Cheese

Oh I’ve made fru-fru mac-and-cheese before. Heck, I’ve made the stuff out of the box before. But ya know, this copycat KFC macaroni and cheese puts them all to shame. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, Kentucky Fried Chicken, KFC, mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 446kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring water to a boil over high heat in a medium saucepan.
  • Add pasta, stir, and cook 10-12 minutes until tender, stirring often.
  • Meanwhile, add remaining ingredients to a small saucepan over low heat.
  • Stir until melted and smooth.
  • When the macaroni is cooked, pour into a strainer and rinse with cold water.
  • Drain well then return it to the pasta pot.
  • Turn off the heat.
  • Stir in the cheese sauce and serve.

Notes

For a spicy version, substitute pepper jack cheese for the cheddar.

Nutrition

Calories: 446kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 943mg | Potassium: 331mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 576IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 394mg | 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 Chili’s Chicken Crispers

I don’t get my deep fryer out from the back of the pantry often, but when I do I make sure it’s for something good. I’m not getting it out to make salad. I want something breaded, something crunchy. This copycat of Chili’s chicken crispers hit the spot. Great breading that sticks. None of this take-a-bit-all-the-breading-falls-off stuff. A bit crunchy, with tender juicy chicken inside. And a crazy-good honey mustard dipping sauce that I’ll be making for other things too (like nuggets).

Copycat Chili's Chicken Crispers

Crispy Leftovers

I had a few of these copycat Chili’s chicken crispers leftover. I reheated them for lunch the next day. Much to my happiness, they stayed a bit crispy crunchy. That’s a major plus for me because as much as I love deep-fried food, I can’t eat 4 servings at once so there’s gonna be leftovers!

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

As much as I love the honey mustard dipping sauce, my malt vinegar aioli is also excellent for dipping these crispers.

Try my copycat of PF Chang’s crispy honey chicken too. Not eat-with-your-hands kinda food, but might darn tasty too!

Copycat Chili's Chicken Crispers
Print Pin
4 from 4 votes

Copycat Chili’s Chicken Crispers

The honey mustard dipping sauce is also great for dipping chicken nuggets.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken fingers, Chili’s, copycat
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 666kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

For the honey mustard dipping sauce

For the chicken crispers

Instructions

For the honey mustard dipping sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

For the chicken crispers

  • Whisk the egg, milk, broth, salt and pepper in a medium bowl.
  • Whisk in the self-rising flour and let rest 5 minutes.
  • Heat the oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 350 F.
  • Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl or pie plate.
  • Working in batches, roll each tenderloin in the all-purpose flour. Shake off any excess then transfer to the batter. Coat well, shake off any excess, then fry 7-9 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve with the honey mustard dipping sauce.

Notes

Make extra dipping sauce for nuggets, fries, anything!

Nutrition

Calories: 666kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 18g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 144mg | Sodium: 1599mg | Potassium: 616mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 172IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 2mg

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 KFC Chicken Nuggets

I admit, I’ve never had the chicken nuggets from Kentucky Fried Chicken. I’ve always been more of a give-me-a-bucket-of-crispy-fried-chicken kind of guy. I have been missing out all of these years if this copycat KFC chicken nuggets are even remotely the same as the original. I mean seriously, they’re great. Which begs the question: how many nuggets could you order in the drive-thru before they started to look at you in a strange way? With these little yummies over-indulging is expected.

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets

Great Flavor In The Perfect Size

I guess if you were making copycat KFC chicken nuggets for kids you might leave out the cayenne. I could barely detect it. It was there, enough to add flavor and maybe a hint of spiciness, but certainly not enough to burn or make my eyes water. Heck, for my tastes I’ll probably add more next time!

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 KFC bean salad.

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets
Print Pin
3.20 from 5 votes

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets

These nuggets are seriously great. Which begs the question: how many nuggets could you order in the drive-thru before they started to look at you in a strange way?
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken nuggets, copycat, KFC
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 321kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from My Bizzy Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oil to 350 F.
  • In a small bowl or pie plate, whisk together the flours, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne and baking powder.
  • In another small bowl or pie plate, whisk together the egg, milk and hot sauce.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture, and back into the egg mixture and again the flour mixture. Double dipping will get you that fantastic crunchy coating.
  • Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack-lined baking sheet to drain and cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Or sauces.

Nutrition

Calories: 321kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 169mg | Sodium: 1319mg | Potassium: 587mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 527IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 182mg | Iron: 2mg

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 Firehouse Hook and Ladder Sub

I’m not sure. Maybe it was the simple flavors. Or the fresh bread. But there was something about this copycat of Firehouse Hook and Ladder Sub that I really, really liked. I made this three days in a row. I probably would’ve made it a fourth day if I hadn’t run out of sandwich meat. This sub is now my go-to sandwich when I pack lunches for day trips, especially if we’re going antiquing.

Copycat Firehouse Hook and Ladder Sub

Have It Your Way

I think it’d be ok to play with this recipe for a copycat Firehouse Subs Hook and Ladder sub. The base recipe is fantastic, but there’s always room for personalizing it if you’re in the mood. Spice it up a little bit with jalapeno jack cheese maybe. Use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey or ham, perhaps. Use a different bread. But, I wouldn’t mess with the mix of mayonnaise and spicy mustard. I think it was my favorite part. Not too mustardy. Not too mayonnaise-y. After all, it’s a great-tasting sandwich spread.

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 Firehouse Subs Battalion Chief sub.

Copycat Firehouse Hook and Ladder Sub
Print Pin
3.89 from 9 votes

Copycat Firehouse Hook and Ladder Sub

I wouldn't mess with the mix of mayonnaise and spicy mustard. I think it was my favorite part.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich, submarine
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 559kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 inch sub roll
  • 2 ounces smoked turkey breast thinly sliced deli meat
  • 2 ounces honey roasted ham thinly sliced deli meat
  • 1 ½ ounces monterey jack cheese thinly sliced
  • 1 ½ tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons spicy mustard
  • 1 ounce romaine lettuce shredded
  • 1 ounce onion thinly sliced

Instructions

  • Pre-heat oven to 350 F.
  • Split the sub roll lengthwise and top the bottom slice with the meats and cheese. Toast both bread halves for a few minutes, until the cheese is just starting to melt.
  • Combine the mayonnaise and mustard. Slather on the top bun.
  • Add the lettuce and onion. Serve.

Notes

This is a delicious sub no matter which sandwich meats you use!

Nutrition

Calories: 559kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 1911mg | Potassium: 442mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2818IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 353mg | 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 Houston Buttermilk Garlic Salad Dressing

I’ve never been to a Houston’s restaurant. Their food sure looks awesome. So though I can’t say this copycat of their buttermilk garlic salad dressing is a true copycat, I can say it is fantastic. Like slurp-slurp-I-love-salad-more-than-ever-now fantastic. This is copycat Houston buttermilk garlic salad dressing is Ranch to the max. Amp’d up. Taken to another level! Thanks mostly to the garlic, but also a few other things too!

Copycat Houston Buttermilk Garlic Salad Dressing

Give It A Rest. And A Shake.

Make sure you let the dressing ‘get happy’ in the fridge overnight before serving. It makes a huge difference. And make a double batch because this copycat Houston’s buttermilk garlic salad dressing isn’t just for salad. It’s great for dipping wings. And veggies. Give the bottle a good shake (or the container a good stir) before serving.

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)

If I do use this dressing for dipping, I like to serve it in these little dipping cups. And I even use the cups for server salad dressing, too. They are the perfect size for a single salad serving, or dipping wings, nuggets, tenders…. you name it. They also help me not over-dress my salad, which is something I tend to do with dressings like this Ranch. And they clean up easily too! They’re great!

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

Also try my copycat TGI Friday’s Mandarin Orange Sesame dressing and my copycat Carrabba’s Creamy Parmesan dressing.

Copycat Houston Buttermilk Garlic Salad Dressing
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Copycat Houston Buttermilk Garlic Salad Dressing

I can't say this copycat of Houston's buttermilk garlic salad dressing is a true copycat, I can say it is fantastic. Like slurp-slurp-I-love-salad-more-than-ever-now fantastic.
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword buttermilk, copycat, garlic, homemade salad dressing
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
8 hours
Servings 2 cups
Calories 1001kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Alternatively, place all ingredients into a large bowl and whisk well.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight before using.

Notes

Stir well before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1001kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 101g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 1417mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 730IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 169mg | 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 Carrabba’s Creamy Parmesan Salad Dressing

I didn’t really know what to expect when I made this copycat of Carrabba’s creamy Parmesan salad dressing. The recipe ingredients looked like they were right up my alley. But, sadly, I’d never been to the restaurant to try the real thing. Well, I made the dressing, and I have to say that if this is anywhere near what you get at Carrabba’s, I’ve been missing out. Perfectly creamy, with plenty of nutty salty Parmesan, this dressing was perfect on a big dinner salad. It was difficult for me to exercise self-control! I am a bit of a salad dressing-aholic. I have to keep an eye on myself!

Copycat Carrabba's Creamy Parmesan Salad Dressing

Give It A Rest

Make sure you let the dressing ‘get happy’ in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Give it one good last whisk or shake before serving. I wouldn’t change a thing about this copycat Carrabba’s creamy Parmesan salad dressing except to double it.

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

I find myself using these little sauce dipping cups more and more for salad dressings. They help me with portion control. Well, usually they do. They’re also the perfect size for dipping wings, nuggets, tenders and even vegetables. And they’re easy to clean, too!

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

Also try my herby Ranch dressing and my copycat Houston Buttermilk Garlic dressing.

Copycat Carrabba's Creamy Parmesan Salad Dressing
Print Pin
4.20 from 5 votes

Copycat Carrabba’s Creamy Parmesan Salad Dressing

Perfectly creamy, with plenty of nutty salty Parmesan, this dressing was perfect on a big dinner salad.
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, creamy, homemade salad dressing, Parmesan
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
1 hour
Servings 1 cup
Calories 910kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into a bowl. Whisk well to combine.
  • Refrigerate at least one hour before serving.

Notes

Stir well before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 910kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 92g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 1177mg | Potassium: 211mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 463IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 405mg | 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 Culver’s Cheese Curds

Oh my goodness. There should be a big ‘danger’ sign next to these copycat Culver’s cheese curds. Danger because you’re going to want to eat them all. Then you’re still going to want more. I so couldn’t stop eating them. They have this delicious crunchy outside. And tender, gooey, cheesy, melty, yummy insides. I thought I might need some sort of dipping sauce. Ya know, Ranch dressing maybe. Or warmed marinara. But oh no. Nothing else required. Just a lot of moaning with each and every bite.

Copycat Culver’s Cheese Curds

Any Cheese Curds Will Do

I used dill cheese curds for my copycat Culver’s cheese curds. The dill went very well with the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. You can use anything you want. I have a container of jalapeno cheddar curds in my fridge right now. They’d be great with just regular breadcrumbs, seasoned with a bit of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

I usually deep fry in my big fryer if I’m making a big batch and feeding a crowd. But if it’s just the two of us I’ll get out my Fry Daddy.

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

This recipe is based on a recipe from CopyKat.

Copycat Culver’s Cheese Curds
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Culver’s Cheese Curds

Oh my goodness. There should be a big ‘danger’ sign next to these copycat Culver’s cheese curds. Danger because you’re going to want to eat them all.
Course Appetiser
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, curds, deep-fried
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 3352kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from CopyKat

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine flour and salt in a shallow bowl.
  • Stir until the salt is incorporated evenly.
  • Break eggs into a second shallow bowl with 1 tablespoon of milk.
  • Beat the eggs.
  • Place breadcrumbs into the third bowl.
  • Coat the curds first with flour, then the egg, and finally the bread crumbs. It is very important to coat the cheese curds evenly and thoroughly.
  • Place coated curds on a wire rack resting in a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Freeze the cheese curds for 30 to 60 minutes.
  • Set up another wire rack on a baking sheet or line a plate with paper towels.
  • Pour enough oil into a large skillet or a pot to reach about 2 inches of oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to make sure the temperature is 375 degrees.
  • Frying a few curds at a time, carefully drop a few in at a time. Do not crowd the skillet. Fry for about 1 minute, turning them once. Cook until they are golden brown.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

Serve with Ranch dressing for dipping!

Nutrition

Calories: 3352kcal | Carbohydrates: 253g | Protein: 178g | Fat: 176g | Saturated Fat: 90g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1142mg | Sodium: 5338mg | Potassium: 820mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 974IU | Calcium: 3770mg | Iron: 19mg

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 Olive Garden Salad Mix

Yes, yes I do like freshly grated Parmesan on my copycat of the Olive Garden salad mix. I don’t hide it. I’m not ashamed of it. Keep it coming, keep grating and don’t expect me to say ‘stop’ any time soon! Now, I love the rest of the salad too. The crunchy crisp greens. Tomatoes. Croutons. Red onions. And my two favorites: large black olives and pepperoncini. All lightly dressed in Olive Garden’s signature Italian dressing!

Copycat Olive Garden Salad Mix

A Great Salad In No Time

This is the easiest way I know to make a fantastic salad in no time. We actually had this as a main dish for dinner. I roasted a few chicken breasts, sliced them, and served them on top of the salad. It made for a great, healthy dinner! Whether served as a side salad or amped up with other toppings, the base recipe for this copycat Olive Garden salad mix is a winner!

When it comes times for dressing, I like to put mine in these little sauce dipping cups. They’re great for not only salad dressing, but also for holding dipping sauces for treats like nuggets, tenders, veggies and my favorite, chicken wings!

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

Also try my copycat of the Santa Fe chicken salad from Max and Erma’s.

Copycat Olive Garden Salad Mix
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Olive Garden Salad Mix

Whether served as a side salad or amped up with other toppings, the base recipe for this copycat Olive Garden salad mix is a winner!
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, salad
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 34kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from CopyKat

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place your salad bowls, plates or whatever you plan on using for serving into the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving time.
  • Open salad package and empty the contents into a large bowl.
  • Add the onion, olives, pepperoncini, croutons, tomato slices and croutons.
  • Drizzle with some dressing (don't flood it) and then toss gently to coat everything in the dressing.
  • Serve with freshly grated cheese over the top.

Notes

Best served fresh.

Nutrition

Calories: 34kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 130mg | Potassium: 242mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 793IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 17mg | 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)