The Best Memorial Day Recipes For BBQs
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Stand out with the best Memorial Day recipes for outdoor parties. Ranging from juicy to crispy, everything on this list will have your taste buds dancing…and your guests’ too.
Memorial Day is always that bridge that ushers in the start of summertime. The sun is out, and the days are longer. BBQs and cookouts are a must! As you are planning your Memorial Day parties, I have taken care of the menu.
This list is organized for you – browse the cocktails, appetizers, main dishes, side dishes, and desserts. Everything you need is right here. Now, all you have to do is pin these recipes to Pinterest and go shopping!
FAQs about Memorial Day Recipes
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to making yummy Memorial Day recipes.
When is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is not the same day every year. Since 1971, it has been celebrated on the last Monday of May. The actual date of that day changes each year. In 2022, Memorial Day is Monday, May 30th.
What kind of recipes should I make for a Memorial Day party?
The kind of recipes you make depends on what kind of party you are having, where the party is, and how many people are coming. Always tailor the food to the party.
If you are having an outdoor cookout, then I suggest making food that tastes great when it is cold. You should also make salads and other recipes that are easy to make for a crowd of people.
Some people like to make patriotic-themed appetizers and desserts to celebrate America on this holiday.
What are some good low-carb options to make for Memorial Day?
When it comes to low-carb options, just remember to prepare protein and vegetables. Things like a sour cream dip and raw veggies, deviled eggs, and grilled chicken kabobs (with sugar-free marinade) are all fantastic choices.
Always use sugar-free dips, sauces, or marinades when you make low-carb recipes.
Can I make any of these recipes gluten-free?
Almost all of these recipes can be turned into gluten-free alternatives. The easiest way to do that is to just use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Memorial Day Cocktails
Bring the party to your Memorial Day cookout! These cocktails are either patriotic or party-themed and loved by almost everyone that tries them.
1. Star Spangled Mule
Celebrate American patriotism with this red, white, and blue cocktail. It’s a really fun twist on a classic Moscow Mule drink, thanks to the fresh berries and extra-fun garnish.
2. Campari Sangria
Make a large pitcher of this citrus sangria. Everyone will want a few glasses of it. With orange and strawberry slices, it is a refreshing drink for outdoor cookouts.
3. Frozen Blackberry Margaritas
If refreshing is what you’re going for, then make a huge batch of frozen margaritas. Garnish them with fresh blackberries for added beauty.
4. Kentucky Mule
Every outdoor dinner party needs a Kentucky Mule. This bourbon-based drink is topped with fresh mint, so it’s strong and bright at the same time.
5. Margarita Punch
Liven up the party with a lovely and popular margarita punch. It’s a triple-threat, with champagne, tequila, and triple sec. It’s always a crowd-pleaser here at Bayberry House.
6. Classic Margaritas
Salt some glasses! A cookout is a million times better when you serve classic margaritas. There is nothing quite like a traditional salty and strong margarita, with tequila taking center stage.
Easy Appetizers
All of these appetizers are easy to prepare and some of the best ways to start the cookout. Let guests munch on them while you prepare the main course.
7. Antipasto Kabobs
These fresh antipasto kabobs are easy for guests to pick up and eat. Layer them with your favorite ingredients – cheesy tortellini, salty olives, sweet tomatoes, and bold smoked salami.
8. Pimento Cheese
Serve this tasty pimento cheese with a tray of your favorite crackers. It will please your palette with all the different textures and ingredients.
9. Jarcuteries
Looking for an appetizer that SHINES when it comes to flavor and presentation? Then you need a jarcuterie. These single-serving charcuteries assembled in a small jar are perfect for any potluck or celebration.
10. Really Good Chip Dip
There is a reason I called this chip dip “really good.” The secret is the combination of sour cream and mayonnaise. Top it with crispy bacon bits.
11. Italian Sub Sandwich Roll-Ups
Serve all the best Italian sandwich fillings in small roll-ups. Slice them up and serve them with toothpicks for your party guests.
12. Out-of-this-World Corn Dip
This Out-of-this-World Corn Dip is a crowd pleasing appetizer that has become my go-to party recipe. It’s easy to make and will always great rave reviews!
13. Bacon and Cream Cheese Jalapeños
Every bite of these stuffed jalapenos is a delight. The spicy peppers and cream cheese are all wrapped with salty bacon – it’s one of my most-asked-for recipes.
14. Buffalo Chicken Roll Ups
If your guests like spicy foods, then they will love these buffalo chicken roll-ups. They are creamy and the perfect finger-food appetizers.
Main Dish Memorial Day Recipes
All of these main dish recipes are easy to serve at a large party. Not only are they simple, but they are also fun twists on classic cookout foods.
15. Pulled Pork Sliders
These little pulled pork sliders are so tender and juicy. Topped with flavorful homemade coleslaw they are a recipe everyone will love.
16. Black and Blue Sliders
Juicy burgers topped with bold bleu cheese will soon become your go-to cookout food. Use fresh vegetables and keep them together with toothpicks.
17. Grilled Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
If you love sweet recipes, then pineapple and chicken kabobs should be high on your list! The sweet pineapples add plenty of flavor to the tender chicken.
18. Tequila Lime Chicken Kabobs
These chicken kabobs are kicking! Serve the tequila-infused skewers with some margaritas, and your BBQ is ready to go.
Simple Side Dishes
Now let’s check out some of the tastiest and easiest Memorial Day side dish ideas. All of these options will taste perfect with the main dish recipes I shared above.
19. Really Good Macaroni Salad
Let’s start out with a classic side. Macaroni salad is a staple at cookouts across America. Don’t forget the fresh peppers. (Oh, and if you’re looking for a Miracle Whip based Macaroni Salad, I’ve got that for you too. You can find that recipe HERE.)
20. Really Good Pasta Salad
You have got to make this pasta salad – it is my favorite recipe of all time. Fresh and crispy vegetables with comforting pasta in an Italian dressing.
21. Bacon and Bleu Cheese Potato Salad
How about a patriotic salad? Red bacon, blue cheese, and white potatoes – the perfect salad for Memorial day.
22. Oven Fries
Of course, you have to serve fresh fries with your burgers. These fries are covered in parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. They look so enticing that they will disappear in minutes.
23. BLT Macaroni Salad
This tasty macaroni salad will feed a huge crowd – even on a budget. The best part about it is the bite-sized pieces of tomatoes.
24. California Cobb Pasta Salad
Take everything you love about cobb salad and add pasta. Now, you have my super-popular California cobb pasta salad.
Memorial Day Desserts
Don’t forget about the dessert table! All of these desserts have one thing in common – fresh fruit. You can taste summer in every bite.
25. Grilled Peach and Watermelon Kabobs
When you grill peaches, they come out even sweeter – if that is even possible. These peach and watermelon kabobs taste amazing with homemade ice cream.
26. Mixed Berry Banana Bread
The fresh fruit is spread throughout this melt-in-your-mouth banana bread. It’s a fun new twist on a classic quick bread, and your guests will love it as much as you do.
27. Mixed Berry Shortcakes with Homemade Whipped Cream
The homemade whipped cream elevates these shortcakes to an iconic level. Thank goodness homemade whipped cream is a cinch to make!
28. Mason Jar Cherry Supreme
Sugary, juicy cherries fill the top of these tasty mason jar desserts. Even if your friends aren’t fans of cherries, they will love these little treats.
29. Red Velvet Cupcakes
Topped with a candy star, these red velvet cupcakes are a cute way to celebrate our country. They are perfect for kids and adults alike.
30. Red White and Blue Trifle
This patriotic trifle will decorate your dessert table with festive layers of red velvet cake, blueberries, and whipped cream.
31. Ritz Cracker Mixed Berry Icebox Cake
If you have never made an icebox cake before, make this one now. It really is made with Ritz crackers, which gives it an incredible crunch.
32. Key Lime Pie Fudge
Very few things taste as much like summertime as a real key lime pie. This key lime fudge is one of the best ways to celebrate these iconic flavors.
That’s a Wrap on Recipes for Memorial Day!
Make a few or all of these for your next Memorial Day BBQ. Use the freshest ingredients for the boldest flavors. All of these Memorial Day recipes are gorgeous enough to set out at your cookout and are sure to impress your guests.