Why wait an hour for takeout when you can whip up the same dishes at home in half the time? These copycat recipes bring all the flavor without the delivery fee or the wait. From classic Chinese favorites to spicy noodle dishes, these meals are faster than a delivery driver can knock on your door. Plus, you get to skip the awkward small talk when they show up.
Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs
These Chinese boneless spare ribs deliver the sticky, sweet flavor you love, with crispy edges and that classic deep red color. Ready faster than takeout, no waiting required.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs
Shrimp Lo Mein
Shrimp lo mein at home is easier than you think. With egg noodles, juicy shrimp, and a restaurant-worthy sauce, this 20-minute meal beats waiting for delivery any day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein
General Tso Shrimp
This General Tso shrimp is a quick, one-skillet wonder ready in just 10 minutes. Skip the delivery fee—this sweet and slightly spicy dish is faster and just as good.
Get the Recipe: General Tso Shrimp
Kung Pao Chickpeas
Kung Pao Chickpeas bring all the bold flavors you expect, minus the meat. This vegan dish delivers that takeout taste right at home with no delivery delay.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas
Sweet & Sour Tofu
Sweet and sour tofu that’s crispy, sticky, and perfectly balanced—ready in under 30 minutes. A vegetarian option that’s quicker than grabbing takeout.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu
Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup
Hot and sour egg drop soup combines two Chinese favorites into one hearty bowl. No need to choose—this one’s ready faster than your usual order would arrive.
Get the Recipe: Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup
Kung Pao Shrimp
Kung Pao shrimp made easy in your kitchen. It’s flavorful, quick, and cheaper than takeout, making it the perfect dinner to whip up in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Shrimp
Tofu Fried Rice
Tofu fried rice brings all the takeout vibes, with a healthier spin. A great clean-out-the-fridge meal that’s faster than waiting for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice
Thai Red Curry Soup
This red curry Thai noodle soup is bold in flavor and easy to customize. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s a fast, flavorful alternative to ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Soup
Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry
Spicy udon noodle stir fry hits the spot with its ginger-garlic sriracha sauce and tender noodles. A 30-minute meal that rivals any takeout, minus the wait.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry
Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles
Korean sweet potato glass noodles are ready in just 15 minutes. With stir-fried veggies, beef strips, and a savory sauce, this dish is quicker than calling in your order.
Get the Recipe: Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
