11 Luby’s Copycat Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

Luby’s is a beloved cafeteria-style restaurant chain known for its comforting, home-cooked meals. If you’re craving those classic dishes but can’t make it to Luby’s, these 11 copycat recipes will bring their flavors straight to your kitchen!

From creamy mashed potatoes to savory fried chicken and decadent desserts, this collection has something for everyone.

Each recipe includes easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients so you can recreate the magic of Luby’s at home.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

About: These creamy mashed potatoes are rich, buttery, and perfectly seasoned—a true comfort food staple that pairs well with almost any main dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: minced garlic or chives for added flavor

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes.
2. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly.
2. Return them to the pot and mash using a potato masher or ricer.
3. Heat the butter and milk together in a small saucepan or microwave until warm.
4. Gradually pour the butter-milk mixture into the mashed potatoes while stirring continuously. This ensures a smooth texture.

Step 3: Season and Serve

1. Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. For an optional twist, stir in minced garlic or sprinkle fresh chives on top before serving.

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2. Classic Fried Chicken

About: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—this classic fried chicken recipe captures the essence of Luby’s iconic dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
2. Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.

Step 3: Coat and Fry

1. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry for 12–15 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite sides.

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3. Broccoli Cheese Casserole

About: A cheesy, creamy broccoli casserole that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, steamed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender but still crisp. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese mixture and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
2. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

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4. Macaroni and Cheese

About: This creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings every time.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a little kick

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
5. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).

Step 3: Combine and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

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5. Peach Cobbler

About: This classic peach cobbler is warm, sweet, and bursting with juicy peaches. Topped with a buttery, crumbly crust, it’s the perfect dessert to end any meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups sliced fresh or canned peaches (about 6–8 peaches)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• Optional: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon for added flavor

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cobbler Topping

1. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in the melted butter and milk until just combined. The batter should be thick but spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the peaches, spreading gently to cover most of the surface.
3. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cobbler to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

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6. Green Beans Almondine

About: Tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds and a hint of lemon make this dish a light yet flavorful side that pairs beautifully with any entrée.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions:

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3–4 minutes, or until bright green and slightly tender.
2. Immediately transfer the green beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the sliced almonds and toast them for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 3: Sauté and Finish

1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the almonds and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Toss in the blanched green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring to coat them in the buttery almond mixture.
3. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish.

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7. Chicken Fried Steak

About: This Southern classic features tenderized steak coated in a crispy breading and smothered in creamy gravy—a hearty meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 4 beef cube steaks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp pan drippings (or butter)
• 2 cups whole milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Breading

1. Place the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Dip each steak first in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Fry the Steaks

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, leave about 3 tablespoons of drippings (or add butter if needed).
2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Serve

1. Spoon the gravy generously over the fried steaks.
2. Serve with mashed potatoes or biscuits for a complete meal.

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8. Classic Meatloaf

About: This classic meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and packed with savory goodness. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Shape the Loaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on the baking sheet.
2. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle with brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter glaze.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice the meatloaf and serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides.

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9. Cornbread

About: This golden, buttery cornbread is slightly sweet, perfectly crumbly, and pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or chili. It’s a Southern staple that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 large eggs
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or 1/4 cup diced jalapeños for variation

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or a cast-iron skillet.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and eggs.
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Add Variations (Optional)

1. If using, fold in shredded cheddar cheese or diced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan or skillet and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cornbread to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm with butter or honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

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10. Chocolate Cake

About: This rich, decadent chocolate cake is moist, fudgy, and topped with a luscious chocolate frosting. It’s the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

1. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
2. Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.

Step 3: Bake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble and Frost

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
3. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

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11. Buttermilk Biscuits

About: Flaky, buttery, and light as air, these buttermilk biscuits are a breakfast favorite. They’re perfect on their own or served with jam, honey, or gravy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• Optional: 1 tbsp honey or sugar for a hint of sweetness

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

1. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Stir in the buttermilk (and honey/sugar, if using) until the dough just comes together.

Step 3: Shape the Biscuits

1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 2–3 times.
2. Roll the dough to about 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds.
3. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
2. Brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the biscuits warm with butter, jam, or honey. For a savory twist, pair them with sausage gravy.

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With these 11 Luby’s copycat recipes, you can recreate the comforting flavors of your favorite cafeteria meals right at home. Enjoy!

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in Luby’s Copycat Recipes?

When cooking, you can opt for frozen veggies, but be aware that they’ll lack the crunch and flavor of fresh options, and their texture might be softer, making them a decent substitute with some frozen tradeoffs.

Are Luby’s Recipes Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?

You’re wondering if Luby’s recipes cater to gluten-free diets. Generally, traditional recipes rely on wheat flour, but you can adapt them using gluten-free flours. Be prepared to experiment and adjust seasonings, as special diets often require creative substitutions.

Can I Prepare Luby’s Recipes in Advance for a Party?

When party prep is on your mind, you’ll want to know that meal assembly can be a game-changer; you can prep most Luby’s recipes in advance, but be critical of dishes that require last-minute cooking or assembly to guarantee flavor and texture aren’t compromised.

Do Luby’s Recipes Work With Dairy-Free or Vegan Alternatives?

When substituting dairy, you’ll find that vegan cheese options often lack flavor and texture, while non-dairy milk alternatives can alter the consistency of dishes; however, with careful selection and adjustments, you can create satisfying, allergy-friendly adaptations that still impress your party guests.

Can I Scale Down Luby’s Recipes for a Smaller Family?

When scaling down recipes for a smaller family, you’ll master batch cooking and portion control by halving ingredients, adjusting cooking times, and using smaller pans, ensuring you enjoy perfect, tailored meals without excess leftovers.