13 Budget-Friendly Copycat Rachael Ray Nutrish Recipes

This is the classic, the go-to, the crowd-pleaser. Inspired by the flagship Nutrish recipe, this homemade version is packed with lean protein and garden veggies. It’s a fantastic starting point for any pet parent venturing into home cooking for their pup.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, chopped
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook until lightly browned.
2. Add the water or broth and the brown rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped carrots and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
4. Add the peas and spinach, stirring until the spinach is wilted and the peas are tender (about 5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a perfect all-rounder for healthy adult dogs. It provides a great balance of protein, healthy carbs, and essential vitamins from the vegetables, making it a reliable and delicious homemade staple.

For the pup that loves a heartier, richer flavor, this beef-based recipe is a winner. It mirrors the Nutrish beef formula, providing high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and energy, perfect for more active dogs.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (90% lean or leaner)
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil (for omega fatty acids)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the water or broth, diced sweet potato, and brown rice. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice and sweet potato are tender.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the flaxseed oil. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for active dogs or those needing to build or maintain muscle mass. The rich flavor is also great for tempting picky eaters to clean their bowls.

Inspired by the Zero Grain line, this recipe is perfect for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies. Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are amazing for skin and coat health, as well as reducing inflammation.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillets, skin removed
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. You can either bake or poach the salmon. To bake, place it on a baking sheet and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until cooked through. To poach, gently simmer in water for 10 minutes. Once cooked, flake the salmon with a fork.
2. While the salmon cooks, place the diced sweet potatoes and green beans in a pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. Drain most of the water, leaving about 1/2 cup in the pot. Mash the sweet potatoes and green beans slightly.
4. Gently fold in the flaked salmon, blueberries, and coconut oil.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for dogs with itchy skin, dull coats, or known grain allergies. It’s a gentle, anti-inflammatory meal that tastes like a gourmet treat.

A delicious blend of familiar and novel proteins, this recipe is inspired by some of Nutrish’s more unique formulas. It combines lean turkey with rich venison for a flavor profile that can entice even the fussiest of eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 0.5 lb ground venison
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup cranberries (dried or fresh)
• 4 cups water or low-sodium turkey broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey and venison together until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the water or broth, brown rice, and chopped carrots. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice and carrots are soft.
4. Stir in the cranberries during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Let the mixture cool completely before portioning out for your dog.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

When chicken or beef just isn’t cutting it anymore, this recipe is a fantastic way to switch things up. It’s a gourmet meal designed to pique the interest of dogs who have grown bored with their food.

The Nutrish DISH line is famous for having whole pieces of veggies and fruit. This copycat recipe recreates that experience with satisfying textures and visible chunks of goodness your dog can see and taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/4 cup chopped apples (core and seeds removed)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken chunks, brown rice, carrots, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
3. Stir in the peas, chopped apples, and parsley. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. The mixture should be thick and stew-like, with distinct chunks of chicken and veggies.
5. Allow to cool thoroughly before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs (and owners!) who appreciate a less processed-looking meal. The variety of textures keeps dogs engaged, and the visible ingredients provide peace of mind.

For the dog that’s a true athlete, this PEAK-inspired recipe is packed with protein. It combines beef and lamb to support strong muscles and a high-energy lifestyle, with lentils providing grain-free carbohydrates and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon fish oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef and lamb together. Drain the excess fat.
2. Add the beef broth, rinsed lentils, and chopped carrots. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and stir in the fish oil. Let cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is fuel for your furry adventurer. It’s best suited for working dogs, sporting breeds, or any canine companion who spends their days running, hiking, and playing hard.

Small dogs have big needs, but they require smaller kibble—or in this case, smaller bites! This recipe is inspired by the Little Bites formula, with all the ingredients finely diced for tiny mouths and tailored nutrition for smaller breeds.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely diced
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 1/2 cup carrots, finely diced
• 1/2 cup peas
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon fish oil (for DHA/brain health)

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add the finely diced chicken and pearl barley.
2. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the finely diced carrots and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the barley is soft and the carrots are tender.
4. Stir in the peas and cook for 5 more minutes.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the fish oil, and let it cool. The consistency should be soft and easy for small dogs to eat.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An ideal homemade meal for the little guys. From Chihuahuas to puppies, this recipe provides all the balanced nutrition they need in a manageable, easy-to-eat format.

If your pup is carrying a few extra pounds, this recipe can help. Inspired by weight management formulas, it uses lean protein and is bulked up with low-calorie, high-fiber veggies like green beans and pumpkin to help your dog feel full and satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground turkey (95% lean or leaner)
• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 2 cups chopped green beans (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey until it’s no longer pink. Drain any fat.
2. Add the water, pumpkin puree, green beans, carrots, and rinsed quinoa. Stir everything together well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the quinoa is cooked and the veggies are tender.
4. The result will be a thick, hearty stew. Let it cool completely before serving. Remember to adjust portion sizes for weight loss.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect supportive meal for a dog on a veterinarian-approved weight loss plan. It’s nutritious, delicious, and helps manage hunger without packing on the pounds.

Another fantastic grain-free option, this stew uses lamb as a novel protein, which can be great for dogs with sensitivities to chicken or beef. Lentils provide an excellent source of fiber and carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground lamb
• 1.5 cups green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 zucchini, shredded
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 5 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain off the excess fat.
2. Add the broth, rinsed lentils, and shredded carrots and zucchini.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, until the lentils are tender and creamy.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool. The stew will thicken as it cools.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A wonderful, warming stew for the cooler months or for any dog that needs a grain-free diet with a less common protein. It’s gentle on the tummy and full of flavor.

Pork is a highly digestible protein that dogs often love, but it’s less common in commercial dog foods. This recipe offers a tasty alternative, mashed with root vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground pork
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 parsnip, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cover the cubed sweet potatoes and parsnip with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. While the veggies are boiling, cook the ground pork in a separate skillet until browned. Drain the fat.
3. Drain the cooked vegetables, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking water. Mash the vegetables with a potato masher.
4. Combine the mashed veggies, cooked pork, and frozen peas in the pot. Add a little of the reserved water if the mash is too thick.
5. If using, stir in the fresh rosemary. Let it cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a fantastic choice for dogs with multiple food allergies or for seniors who need a softer food. It’s a comforting, delicious, and gentle meal.

Whitefish like cod is incredibly easy for dogs to digest, making it a perfect protein for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from illness. Quinoa is a complete protein and a gluten-free source of carbohydrates.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets, fresh or frozen (thawed)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped zucchini and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Push the zucchini to one side of the skillet and add the cod fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Flake the cooked fish and mix it with the zucchini.
5. In your dog’s bowl, serve a portion of the cooked quinoa topped with the cod and zucchini mixture. Let cool before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent ‘bland diet’ alternative that’s still packed with nutrition. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive digestion, seniors, or as a light but satisfying meal.

As dogs age, their dietary needs change. This recipe focuses on lean protein for muscle maintenance, healthy grains for digestion, and ingredients that support joint health, making it a perfect meal for your golden-oldie.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
• 1 tablespoon fish oil (for omega-3s and joint health)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for fresh breath)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the ground turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the broth, barley, and shredded carrots. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the barley is soft and chewy.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach and parsley, and cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the fish oil. Let the meal cool completely before serving to your senior companion.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A thoughtful, comforting, and nutritionally supportive meal for senior dogs. It addresses common aging concerns like joint stiffness and muscle loss, all in one delicious bowl.

Want a ‘set it and forget it’ meal? This slow cooker recipe is the answer. It transforms simple ingredients into a rich, savory stew that tastes like a canine version of a chicken pot pie. It’s perfect for busy pet parents who still want to provide a home-cooked meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, whole
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1.5 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (to thicken)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Place the whole chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Top with the cubed sweet potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables.
3. Sprinkle the rolled oats over the top.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
7. Stir everything together. The stew will be thick and fragrant. Let it cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

For the pet parent who wants to meal prep with minimal effort, this slow cooker recipe is a game-changer. It’s a nutritious, complete meal that’s ready when you get home, and your dog will absolutely love it.

Switching to homemade dog food is an amazing act of love, but it comes with responsibility. It’s not as simple as just giving your dog leftovers. Here are some key things to keep in mind to ensure you’re doing it right.

1. Talk to Your Vet First

This is non-negotiable. Before you make any significant change to your dog’s diet, have a conversation with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. They can help you understand your specific dog’s nutritional needs based on their age, breed, weight, and health status. They can also recommend essential supplements to ensure the diet is 100% complete and balanced for long-term feeding.

2. Balance is Everything

Dogs need a specific ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. While our recipes provide a great foundation, long-term homemade diets often require added calcium, omega fatty acids, and other micronutrients. A common mistake is providing too much protein and not enough calcium, which can be harmful over time. Your vet can recommend a good canine multivitamin or specific supplements to round out these recipes.

3. Know the ‘No-Go’ Foods

Many human foods are toxic to dogs. Keep this list handy and make sure none of these ever end up in your dog’s bowl:

• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks
• Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine
• Grapes and raisins
• Macadamia nuts
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in many products)
• Alcohol
• Cooked bones (they can splinter)
• Yeast dough

4. Meal Prep and Storage

Homemade dog food doesn’t have the preservatives that commercial kibble does. It’s fresh, which is great, but it also means it will spoil. A fresh batch will typically last 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For larger batches, portion out meals into freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw a portion in the fridge the night before you need it.

1. Can I really save money by making my own dog food?

Absolutely! While the initial grocery bill might seem high, when you break it down per meal, it’s often significantly cheaper than buying premium wet or fresh dog food brands. Buying ingredients like chicken, rice, and carrots in bulk can increase your savings even more.

2. How do I know how much homemade food to feed my dog?

This is a great question and depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. A general rule of thumb is to feed about 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day. For example, a 50-pound dog might eat 1 to 1.5 pounds of food daily, split into two meals. However, this is just a starting point. The best way is to monitor your dog’s body condition and adjust the amount as needed. Your vet can give you a more precise recommendation.

3. Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?

To some extent, yes! You can often swap one lean protein for another (like turkey for chicken) or one dog-safe vegetable for another (like green beans for peas). You can also switch brown rice for another grain like barley or oats. However, don’t substitute the core components without understanding the nutritional impact. For example, don’t swap all the sweet potatoes (a healthy carb) for a low-carb veggie, as you might unbalance the meal’s energy content.