You don't have to give up your weekly Netflix and pizza tradition! Just take these steps to nix germs when enjoying carryout food.
How to Safely Enjoy Takeout During Coronavirus
Updated on Dec. 14, 2023
Confession: The only thing getting me through these weeks of quarantine, homeschool and constant uncertainty is our Friday night tradition of Netflix and carryout. When I stopped to consider if enjoying our favorite healthy fast food every week was a safe choice for our family, I was afraid of the answer. Sure, I can handle the ramifications of a global pandemic but if you’re telling me I have to do that without our weekly deep-dish pizza, I might lose it. Fortunately, it seems there are safe ways to enjoy takeout during this time. (Speaking of, this serving tray is perfect for preventing person-to-person contact when sharing a pizza.)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is currently no evidence to suggest that we can contract COVID-19 from food. While the virus can live on surfaces like countertops and food wrappers, the food itself should be safe to eat. Experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) believe that the novel coronavirus cannot withstand normal cooking temperatures. This means that cooking food at home or buying hot carryout food should not put you at risk for the virus.
Now that we know our food is safe, let’s take measures to reduce our contact with the containers and other people to keep everyone safer.
Choose No-Contact Pickup or Delivery
Whether you’re picking up your dinner or having it delivered, ask your local restaurant about the option of a no-contact transfer. This keeps both you and the restaurant workers safer by minimizing the chance for physical contact.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands is the No. 1 public health recommendation for a reason. Simple soap and water should be enough to kill any coronavirus germs on your hands, so start the preparation process with a thorough wash. This will hopefully prevent any germs you picked up throughout the day from getting you sick.
Transfer to Clean Plates
Rather than eating your meal from the original container, transfer the food to your own dishes. This is also a great practice when preparing meal delivery service dishes, as well. Then, make sure to wash your hands again before you eat.
Microwave Until Steaming
Because it seems coronavirus cannot withstand heat, microwave your carryout food until steaming. Then wash your hands again and relax!
And as delicious as they are, this isn’t the season for carryout California sushi rolls or cold sandwiches. Experts don’t know of any COVID-19 cases coming from food, but choosing hot dishes over cold is an extra precaution to keep you and your family safer.
Our Best Restaurant Copycats to Cook at Home
Inspired by: Panda Express Orange ChickenYou'll say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade once you try this easy orange chicken recipe.
Inspired by: KFC The Original RecipeThis crispy fried chicken recipe uses a batter instead of a flour coating. That helps the flour adhere to the chicken so it won’t fall off after cooking!
Inspired by: Noodles & Company Wisconsin Mac & CheeseI like to serve this mac & cheese with a salad and crusty bread. It's a satisfying meal that feels upscale, but will fit just about any budget. And because the Gorgonzola is so mild in this dish, even the kiddos will go for it. —Charlotte Giltner, Mesa, Arizona
Inspired by: Olive Garden Pasta e FagioliHere's a convenient spin on a classic Italian favorite. Spaghetti sauce and canned broth form the flavorful base. —Cindy Garland, Limestone, Tennessee
Inspired by: McDonald's Chicken McNuggetsMy 3-year-old went through a chicken-nuggets-and-french-fries-only stage, so I made these golden nuggets for him. Even the grown-ups like them! —Amanda Livesay, Mobile, Alabama
Inspired by: Chipotle Cilantro-Lime RiceMy family's favorite Mexican restaurant serves a similar rice as a side dish. I threw this together one night when I was making fajitas, and everyone loved it! It's such an easy side dish and pairs well with kabobs on the grill, too. —Robin Baskette, Lexington, Kentucky
Inspired by: Panera Broccoli Cheddar SoupThis copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect comfort food. Serve it in a bread bowl for a filling meal.
Inspired by: Red Lobster Cheddar Bay BiscuitsMy biscuits won the prize for best quick bread at my county fair. One of the judges liked them so much, she asked for the recipe! These buttery, savory biscuits go with just about anything. —Gloria Jarrett, Loveland, Ohio
Inspired by: Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried ChickenHere's a lightened-up take on the classic southern comfort-food dish: chicken and gravy. This recipe has been a hit at our house since the first time we tried it! —Ruth Helmuth, Abbeville, South Carolina
Inspired by: Portillo's Chocolate CakeWe can confidently say that this is the best chocolate cake recipe and, at Taste of Home, we make (and eat!) a lot of cakes. With three moist, fluffy cake layers and a rich, decadent chocolate frosting, we think this will become your go-to chocolate dessert as well.
Inspired by: Dunkin' Iced Coffee with Mocha Flavor SwirlWhen my sister introduced me to iced coffee, I wasn’t sure I’d like it. Not only did I love it, but I decided to start making my own iced coffee recipe. This easy version is a refreshing alternative to hot coffee. —Jenny Reece, Lowry, Minnesota
Inspired by: Country Kitchen Farm SkilletI added a little color and flavor to this country scrambled eggs recipe by adding some green pepper, onion and red potatoes. —Joyce Platfoot, Wapakoneta, Ohio
Inspired by: Wendy's ChiliSlow-cooker chili is meaty, saucy and full of spice. Make it for a crowd and still have plenty left over for the next day (or for the freezer).
Inspired by: Country Kitchen Old Fashioned Apple CrispEvery bite of this apple crisp has tart, tender apples and a cinnamon streusel topping. It smells like heaven when it's baking too!
Inspired by: SONIC Corn DogOne of the best parts of the many fairs and festivals in Indiana is the corn dogs! My family loves corn dogs, so I fix them fairly often at home. —Sally Denney, Warsaw, Indiana
Inspired by: Red Lobster New England Clam ChowderI ran across this recipe in one of my antique cookbooks. It's a timeless classic I like to prepare for friends and family throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. —Betty Ann Morgan, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Inspired by: Boston Market Meat LoafThis traditional meat loaf recipe creates a tender, juicy meat loaf topped with a caramelized glaze. The best part: It’s so easy to make, and it’s ready to eat in about an hour!
Inspired by: Dunkin' Glazed DonutThe light coffee flavor in these tasty sugar-glazed doughnuts makes them a perfect start to the morning...on Christmas Day or any day. You'll find that the recipe is a delectable way to use up leftover potatoes. —Pat Siebenaler, Random Lake, Wisconsin
Inspired by: TGI Fridays Loaded Potato SkinsThese potato skins will be an absolute favorite appetizer or side whether served at a barbecue, tailgate party, holiday dinner or as part of an everyday family meal.
Inspired by: Cracker Barrel Roast BeefEveryone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom's specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, Pennsylvania
Inspired by: PF Chang's House-Made Chicken Egg RollsEveryone's beloved takeout order is about to get a lighter (and homemade) upgrade with these veggie-packed baked egg rolls.
Inspired by: California Pizza Kitchen Pepperoni PizzaI've spent years trying to come up with the perfect pizza crust and sauce, and they're paired up in this recipe. I fix this crispy, savory pizza for my family often, and it really satisfies my husband and sons. —Susan Lindahl, Alford, Florida
Inspired by: Chili's Chicken FajitasSizzling chicken fajitas are super easy to make and full of flavor. The secret is in the skillet, which can go from stove to table for restaurant-quality presentation.
Inspired by: Rock Bottom Carrot CakeCinnamon, nutmeg, carrots and a creamy, tangy frosting make this classic carrot cake a winner.
Inspired by: Popeyes BiscuitsYou can make biscuits any day of the week with this simple 3-ingredient buttermilk biscuits recipe.
Inspired by: Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake BitesFor our family, a good fish dinner just isn't complete without these zesty hush puppies. You can also serve them alone as a satisfying snack. —Carolyn Griffin, Macon, Georgia
Inspired by: Red Robin Chili Chili CheeseburgerBig, bold chili and french-fried onions are a fun alternative to the classic burger fixings of ketchup and mustard. The patties are easy to assemble, making this a great weeknight sandwich. —Sue Ross, Casa Grande, Arizona
Inspired by: Rock Bottom Ball Park PretzelsThis giant pretzel recipe creates big soft pretzels that are perfect for any Oktoberfest celebration. Pair the bread machine pretzels with an ice-cold lager and a side of beer cheese sauce for dunking.
Inspired by: Panera Bear ClawThis bear claw pastry recipe is absolutely melt-in-your-mouth delicious! It's impossible to resist the delicate dough, rich almond filling and pretty fanned tops sprinkled with sugar and almonds. I made yummy treats like this when I worked in a bakery years ago. —Aneta Kish, La Crosse, Wisconsin
Inspired by: Portillo's Chili Cheese DogThese deluxe chili dogs are a surefire hit at family functions. Adults and children alike love the cheesy chili sauce, and the toppings are fun! —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon
Inspired by: McCalister's Deli Spud OléEasy to make and endlessly customizable, this creative recipe takes the humble spud to new heights by filling it with a savory mixture of ground beef, sour cream and spices, then topping it all off with melted cheddar cheese.
Inspired by: Boston Market Mac & CheeseOur stovetop macaroni and cheese is extra special, thanks to the buttery crumb topping. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Inspired by: Maggiano's Jumbo Lump Crab CakesJust a few ingredients, including already-cleaned fresh or frozen crabmeat, make these easy crab cakes something you can throw together any day of the week.
Inspired by: Culver's Vanilla CustardI think my most memorable summertime dessert for get-togethers has always been homemade ice cream. This recipe is so rich and creamy and is the perfect splurge on a hot summer afternoon. —Martha Self, Montgomery, Texas
Inspired by: Shake Shack Cheese FriesQuick, easy and a surefire hit at your next gameday potluck or family gathering, you need just 20 minutes and six ingredients to whip up a large batch of these cheese fries.
Inspired by: The Cheesecake Factory Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake CheesecakeIndulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Reese's peanut butter cheesecake. With a graham cracker and Oreo crust, a peanut butter layer and a decadent cheesecake filling swirled with hot fudge, this dessert is a chocolate and peanut butter lover's dream come true.
Inspired by: Red Lobster Garlic Shrimp ScampiThis shrimp scampi recipe looks elegant enough to serve to company, but it’s easy to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs enhance the shrimp. Serve it over pasta and wait for the compliments. —Lori Packer, Omaha, Nebraska
Inspired by: Texas Roadhouse Fried CatfishCajun catfish is an easy and flavor-packed way to serve fish. Simply dredge the fillets in a super-seasoned cornmeal mixture and then bake them for a crispy, golden coating with a flaky, tender inside.
Inspired by: Buffalo Wild Wings Bourbon Honey Mustard WingsHomemade baked honey-mustard wings are packed with flavor, thanks to spicy mustard and your favorite honey, and they're easy to make for any gathering.
Inspired by: Noodles & Company Penne RosaTangy tomatoes are tempered with white wine and smooth cream for a lovely pink blush sauce that will elevate humble pasta with its elegant color and flavor.
Inspired by: McCalister's Deli Harvest Chicken SaladThese sandwiches are easy to pull together when you need something fun and taste-worthy in a flash. I make them often for occasions like brunches, church youth meetings and impromptu family gatherings. —Cheryl Sigler, Louisville, Ohio
Inspired by: Panda Express Chicken PotstickerChicken and mushrooms make up the filling in these pot stickers, a traditional Chinese dumpling. Greasing the steamer rack makes it easier to remove them once they're steamed. —Jacquelynne Stine, Las Vegas, Nevada
Inspired by: Hard Rock Café Cheesecake made with Oreo® Cookie PiecesOreo cheesecake is a surefire way to the heart of anyone who loves cookies and cream. Folds crushed Oreos into a classic vanilla cheesecake and then bake it into an Oreo crust.
Inspired by: The Cheesecake Factory Spicy Cashew ChickenThis quick cashew chicken recipe is great as a weeknight timesaver that you won’t find yourself compromising on flavor. If you’ve never cooked with nuts before, prepare for a pleasant surprise. They really bring the best out of the chicken breast.
Inspired by: McDonald's McRibPerfect for a weekday dinner or cozy weekend meal, this recipe makes fall-off-the-bone tender meat with delicious flavor. —Margaret Luchsinger, Jupiter, Florida
Inspired by: Cracker Barrel Chicken n’ DumplinsIf there's anything better than chicken and dumplings, it's quick and easy chicken and dumplings. This recipe fits the bill, coming together in just 30 minutes.
Inspired by: Culver's Butterburger “The Original”It’s no secret that Wisconsinites love their dairy—so much that they sometimes top their burgers with a generous pat of butter.
My recipe is a lot like the butter burgers you’ll find in popular restaurants all over the state. —Becky Carver, North Royalton, Ohio
Inspired by: Olive Garden TiramisuThis variation of the popular Italian dessert is so easy to assemble. It's convenient, too, since you can make it the day before your dinner party or potluck. —Linda Finn, Louisville, Mississippi
Inspired by: Rock Bottom Bacon Jalapeno PoppersBacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are a big hit at any gathering, so be sure to make lots. The caramelized sugar coating of this sweet and spicy take on the classic finger food balances their heat, so even guests with timid palates can enjoy them.
Inspired by: SONIC Bacon CheeseburgerOur foolproof bacon cheeseburger recipe makes big, juicy, flavorful burgers with all the best toppings—crisp bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh tomato and lettuce.
Inspired by: Olive Garden Chicken & Gnocchi SoupI tasted a similar soup at Olive Garden and wanted to see if I could re-create it myself at home. Here's the delicious result! It's wonderful on a chilly evening. —Jaclynn Robinson, Shingletown, California
Inspired by: PF Chang’s Lettuce WrapsThis recipe is as tasty as the lettuce wraps found in national restaurants, but it's healthier! — Linda Rowley, Richardson, Texas
Inspired by: Olive Garden Zuppa ToscanaYou can make a copycat Zuppa Toscana that's even better than the Olive Garden recipe. And it's ready in 30 minutes!
Inspired by: Popeyes Seafood Po’ BoyThis twist on the traditional po'boy sandwich adds flavor and veggies while reducing fat and calories. For a smoked flavor, grill the shrimp. For a lower-carb option, serve the po'boy open-faced on a baguette half. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia
Inspired by: Cracker Barrel Fried ApplesTransform crisp apples into a warm, spiced delight with this easy, comforting recipe that's perfect on its own or as a versatile topping for your favorite dishes.
Inspired by: Applebee's Quesadilla BurgerThis combo gives you a tender burger, crisp veggies and a crunchy shell, plus fajita flavor. Kids love it. —Antonio Smith, Canal Winchester, Ohio
Inspired by: Olive Garden Eggplant ParmigianaA cozy recipe for when winter's chill sets in, our eggplant Parmesan recipe gets Nonna's nod of approval.
Inspired by: Hard Rock Café Hickory-Smoked RibsWhen my family thinks of summer grilling, it's ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions. —Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida
Inspired by: The Cheesecake Factory Ultimate Red Velvet Cake CheesecakeI love both red velvet cake and cheesecake. So why not combine them into one stunning red velvet cheesecake recipe? It's best when served chilled, right out of the fridge. —Melissa Gaines, Knoxville, Tennessee
Inspired by: Einstein Bros. Bagels Asiago BagelDiscover a cheesy alternative to the usual sweet bread brunch offerings. There's no need to stop by a bakery when you can make this asiago bagel recipe at home. —Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska
Inspired by: IHOP Blueberry PancakesThe blueberries in our blueberry pancakes aren’t the only star of the show: cornmeal, oats, buttermilk and nutmeg give these pancakes an extra oomph of complex flavor and a hearty-yet-fluffy tenderness.
Inspired by: Starbucks Iced Lemon Pound CakeSatisfy your coffee shop treat cravings with this copycat Starbucks lemon loaf cake recipe.
Inspired by: PF Chang's California RollMaking your own California sushi roll is surprisingly easy. You'll need a bamboo mat, sushi rice and nori sheets to get started, and with a bit of practice, you'll be a pro in no time.
Inspired by: Popeyes Macaroni & CheeseMy sons always say I'm the best mom in the world when I make this creamy mac-and-cheese perfection. Does it get any better than that? —Heidi Fleek, Hamburg, Pennsylvania
Inspired by: Culver's Wisconsin Cheese CurdsThese beer-battered cheese curds are the ultimate in delicious comfort food. Some folks like to serve them with ranch dressing, ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping. —Katie Rose, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Inspired by: Country Kitchen Chicken & WaffleMy first experience with this dish sent my taste buds into orbit. I first made this chicken and waffles recipe into appetizers, but we all love them as a main course too. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri
Inspired by: Panda Express Cream Cheese RangoonRecreate your favorite takeout dish at home with baked crab rangoon. They're so crispy and creamy, we understand if there aren't leftovers.
Inspired by: Dunkin' Ham, Egg & Cheese on an English MuffinIf you're looking for a grab-and-go breakfast for busy days, this high-protein sandwich is low in fat and keeps me full all morning. Plus, it's only about 200 calories! —Brenda Otto, Reedsburg, Wisconsin
Inspired by: Pizza Hut Cheese SticksWe love the breadsticks we get hot from the oven at our local pizza parlor. Now I can serve that same wonderful goodness at home. —Heather Bates, Athens, Maine
Inspired by: Starbucks Salted Caramel MochaIf you crave cafe-style coffees at home, here's a recipe for caramel mocha. You can make this decadent, sweet recipe within a few minutes and have a drink that rivals what you'd get at a coffeehouse.
Inspired by: Hard Rock Café Original Legendary® BurgerThis fantastic barbecue bacon burger has it all: melted cheese, tangy barbecue sauce, crispy bacon and thick onion rings. A cheeseburger doesn't get much better than this!
Inspired by: Noodles & Company Pasta FrescaFlavor-packed sausage and sun-dried tomatoes are sure to liven up any simple pasta dish. I have a feeling that once you've tried it, it'll become a family favorite!—Dawn Singleton, Eighty Four, Pennsylvania
Inspired by: Maggiano’s Johnny’s CarbonaraI learned on my culinary internship in Tuscany that real Italian cuisine is simpler than you think! This carbonara is quick, simple and delicious, just the way they like it in Italy. —Lauren Brien-Wooster, South Lake Tahoe, California
Inspired by: The Cheesecake Factory Pasta CarbonaraMake restaurant-caliber fettuccine carbonara with its simple, creamy sauce in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Inspired by: Portillo's Italian Beef SandwichI have fond memories of my mother in the kitchen preparing her amazing beef dip sandwiches. They always made our house smell like an Old World Italian restaurant. And as good as the aroma was, somehow the taste was even better! Set out a jar of giardiniera for spooning on top. —Kira Vosk, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Inspired by: McDonald's Shamrock ShakeSave a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies for this creamy milkshake that's fun for kids and adults, too. —Shauna Sever, San Francisco, California
Inspired by: Chipotle BarbacoaThis slow-cooker barbacoa is simmered in lime juice, chipotle and cumin for a tender, flavorful beef dish. Top it with cilantro and a spritz of lime. Serve it with rice, tortillas or salad greens.
Inspired by: Maggiano's Shrimp ScampiA touch more lemon helped me trim the calories in our favorite shrimp scampi recipe. For those who want to indulge, pass around the Parmesan. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Inspired by: Rock Bottom Cajun PastaI’m originally from Louisiana, where my grandma spoke Cajun French as she taught me her spicy chicken spaghetti. —Brenda Melancon, McComb, Mississippi
Inspired by: Chipotle Carnitas TacosWe shared these flavor-packed tacos with friends from church who came over to help us move. They're so good, I put them on my blog, manilaspoon.com! The slow cooker makes this recipe extra easy, and I love that whenever I make it, I'm reminded of the wonderful people back in Michigan. —Abigail Raines, Hamden, Connecticut
Inspired by: Red Robin Burnin’ Love BurgerOn a whim, we mixed homemade jalapeno jam into ground beef patties, then topped the burgers with caramelized onions and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Fabulous! —Becky Mollenkamp, St. Louis, Missouri
Inspired by: Applebee's Oriental Chicken SaladOur Asian chicken salad transforms the classic American chicken salad into a vibrant, Asian-inspired dish in just 25 minutes, combining familiar flavors with exciting textures and tastes.
Inspired by: Dairy Queen S’mores Blizzard TreatWhen cabin fever hits, we whip up a beverage that tastes like s’mores. Oven-toasted marshmallows and a blender make it happen. —Sarah McKenna, Centennial, Colorado
Inspired by: PF Chang's Pad ThaiWith this vegetarian pad thai recipe, you can make a sweet-and-tangy Thai takeout classic at home.
Inspired by: Panera Mac & CheeseHere's a recipe for white cheddar mac and cheese that's better than any box. The secret: Add a dash each of garlic powder and chipotle powder for a savory kick.
Inspired by: Red Robin Chili Chili Cheese FriesThe delicious chili goes together in minutes and then cooks while you run errands. The only way to make it even better is to pour it over crisp french fries and sprinkle with cheese to make Texas chili fries. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Inspired by: Waffle House Regular WaffleThese melt-in-your-mouth waffles are so tender that you can skip butter and syrup, but why would you want to? —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Inspired by: Texas Roadhouse Fried PicklesLooking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried pickles? Try oven-fried pickles for a crispy and flavorful snack.
Inspired by: Chili's Skillet Chocolate Chip CookieWhat's better than a chocolate chip cookie? How about a giant chocolate chip pizookie!
