What's more comforting than classic diner fare? Classic diner fare you can enjoy without ever having to leave your house, of course! Chopped judge and American Diner Revival host Amanda Freitag makes it easy with these straightforward recipes for diner menu staples, like buttermilk pancakes, brisket sandwiches and classic apple pie.

Pancakes, hotcakes, flapjacks — no matter what your local diner calls them, this homemade rendition will give them a run for their money. Skip the maple syrup in favor of Amanda's sweet apple-cranberry compote.

There's not much more anyone could do to improve classic French onion soup that's loaded with caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese. But Amanda recommends one mouthwatering adjustment: Instead of topping each bowl with a toasted baguette, use a scoop of everything-bagel bread pudding.

You'll get the same big meaty bites from Amanda's turkey burger as you would from the signature burger at your local greasy spoon, but not the excessive fat. Not only does Amanda opt for lean turkey over beef, but she also works chives, shallots and finely diced red bell pepper into the patties. Once they're grilled, top each burger with delicate watercress and a roasted tomato half.