- May 22, 2025
- Main Dishes
50+ Best Memorial Day Recipes for Your Backyard BBQ
Get ready to celebrate summer with over 50 of the best Memorial Day recipes perfect for your backyard BBQ. From grilled favorites and crowd-pleasing sides to festive drinks and patriotic desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Fire up the grill and kick off summer with the ultimate Memorial Day recipe roundup! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a potluck, or planning a relaxing picnic, this list of 35+ recipes has everything you need to celebrate the long weekend in delicious style.
From smoky grilled mains and make-ahead side dishes to festive drinks and red, white, and blue desserts, these recipes are perfect for feeding a crowd and enjoying time outside with friends and family.
So grab your tongs, chill the drinks, and let’s dive into the best Memorial Day food ideas that bring bold flavor, easy prep, and serious summer vibes!
Want low carb or gluten friendly memorial day recipes, check out my round up keto memorial day recipes too!
Easy Memorial Day Appetizers to Kick Off Your Cookout
1
Smoked Sausage Burnt Ends
Experience the irresistible flavors of Smoked Sausage Burnt Ends with this mouthwatering recipe. Tender and juicy smoked sausage chunks are generously coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue glaze, slow-cooked to achieve a crispy caramelized exterior. These bite-sized treats are a must for barbecue enthusiasts, offering a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and slightly charred deliciousness.
Check out this recipe 2
Pull Apart Sliders Recipe
This pull-apart slider recipe on King's Hawaiian rolls is truly an easy recipe that's become a family favorite. If you love take out style cheeseburger sliders made with ground beef, slices of cheese, and topped with crispy pickles, then this recipe is for you!
Check out this recipe 3
Smoked Fried Pickle Dip Recipe
This creamy dip is for all the pickle lovers out there! Check out the ultimate chip dip recipe with this fun take on a slightly smoky, flavor-packed fried dill pickle dip recipe. Perfect for enjoying with chips, pretzels, veggies, and more!
Check out this recipe 4
Mexican Street Corn Jalapeno Poppers
A fun twist on classic jalapeno poppers, this version is mixed with a blend of char grilled corn with the spicy kick of jalapeños, and crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a creamy, cheesy filling, topped with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder. These poppers are a bite-sized fusion of bold flavors and textures, perfect for spicing up any gathering.
Check out this recipe 5
Easy Smoked Shrimp
Perfectly cooked shrimp on the grill! You'll love using a charcoal or electric smoker to make this delicious smoke kissed shrimp recipe.
Check out this recipe 6
Pickle De Gallo Recipe
Zesty, tangy, and packed with crunch, this Pickle De Gallo is a fun twist on traditional pico de gallo that swaps tomatoes for dill pickles! It’s the perfect topping or dip for burgers, hot dogs, tacos, and chips that's ready in minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
Check out this recipe 7
Animal Style Sliders Recipe
These delectable animal style sliders feature juicy burger patties topped with melty American cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a secret sauce that's bursting with flavor. Perfect for game day parties or casual gatherings, these sliders bring the iconic taste of In-N-Out to your own kitchen, allowing you to savor the irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite.
Check out this recipe 8
Smoked Pimento Cheese Dip
Smoked pimento cheese dip is a delectable and smoky twist on the classic Southern spread. It starts with a rich, smoked cream cheese base that adds depth and creaminess to the dish. Mixed with tangy pimentos, sharp cheddar cheese, and a medley of spices, this smoky pimento cheese dip becomes a flavorful and addictive companion for crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Check out this recipe 9
Nashville Hot Wings Recipe
These Nashville Hot Wings are packed with bold, spicy flavor and cooked to crispy perfection using your choice of the grill, air fryer, or oven. Coated in a fiery homemade Nashville Hot Seasoning rub, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or game day snack.
Check out this recipe 10
Burrata Bruschetta Recipe
This burrata bruschetta recipe is the perfect summer appetizer or light lunch. Creamy burrata is paired with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, onion, and fresh basil atop crispy toasted French bread, then finished with a bright basil vinaigrette drizzle for extra flavor.
Check out this recipe 11
Langostino Ceviche
A simple langostino lobster ceviche recipe that's made with bright citrus juice and vegetables for the perfect appetizer or summer side dish.
Check out this recipe 12
Smoked BLT Dip Recipe
If you're a BLT lover, this appetizer is for you! Smoke infuse cream cheese and bacon for a touch of added flavor, combined with diced tomatoes and lettuce to build the perfect chip dip recipe for your next party.
Check out this recipe 13
14
Chicken Bacon Ranch Jalapeno Poppers
Chicken Bacon Ranch Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence, featuring spicy jalapeños stuffed with creamy ranch-seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Perfectly baked or grilled, they deliver a bold and savory flavor explosion in every bite.
Check out this recipe 15
How To Make Smoked Queso Dip
Have you been dying to try the viral Tik Tok queso recipe that you've seen across social media? See how you can grill up this deliciously easy cheesy dip on any charcoal, gas, or pellet style smoker at home!
Check out this recipe 16
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Enjoy this crowd favorite recipe for chicken bacon ranch sliders! A simple party friendly appetizer made with shredded chicken, ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and pepper jack cheese.
Check out this recipe Side Dishes That Steal the Show
17
Traditional Deli Potato Salad Recipe
Recreate the perfect traditional deli potato salad recipe at home. This classic side dish brings creamy, tangy flavors to your table by combining tender potatoes, crisp celery, onion, and a rich, flavorful dressing for a crowd-pleasing salad that's ideal for picnics, family gatherings, and everyday meals.
Check out this recipe 18
Crispy Potato Salad Recipe
This crispy potato salad is a fresh and flavorful take on the classic! It features tri-color smashed potatoes, a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, and a zesty twist with homemade Pickle de Gallo. It’s the perfect shareable potato salad for cookouts, BBQs, and warm weather dinners.
Check out this recipe 19
Grilled Broccoli Salad Recipe
This grilled broccoli salad recipe combines smoky grilled broccoli with a vibrant medley of ingredients. The charred broccoli adds a delightful flavor profile to this traditional salad, complemented by a tangy dressing and a mix of dried cranberries, crispy bacon, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds.
Check out this recipe 20
Smoked Baked Beans
Try the rich and smoky flavors of these irresistible Smoked Baked Beans. A hearty and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup, the savory goodness of bacon, and the smoky essence from the grill. It's a perfect side dish for any barbecue or gathering that will leave your guests begging for seconds!
Check out this recipe 21
Crispy Grilled Potatoes Recipe
Crispy grilled potatoes are the perfect recipe to add to countless meals! Thinly sliced potatoes paired with onion, and garlic, seasoned to perfection and grilled in a foil packet achieving a perfectly crispy outside and buttery tender soft inside. An easy summer side dish the whole family will love!
Check out this recipe 22
Smoked Potatoes Recipe
If you're tired of the same old potato recipes, it's time to add a little smoky flair to your spuds! That's why we love this smoked potato recipe – the ultimate blend of crispy texture and rich flavor that will have you reaching for seconds.
Check out this recipe 23
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Everything you love about a classic mac and cheese recipe, smoked on your charcoal or pellet grill for a delicious elevated flavor.
Check out this recipe 24
Grilled Elote Pasta Salad Recipe
This fire roasted and grilled elote pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice. Perfect for summer gatherings, it’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite, bringing the taste of street food right to your table.
Check out this recipe 25
Grinder Pasta Salad Recipe
Enjoy the flavors of a classic grinder sandwich mixed with a delicious al dente pasta salad. With crispy lettuce and delicious cuts of salami, turkey, and capicola all tied together with the creamy parmesan dressing. This is the perfect pasta salad dish for serving to a crowd!
Check out this recipe 26
Italian Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
This Italian inspires shaved brussel sprout salad recipe is a simple and easy make ahead dish using shredded raw brussels sprouts, crispy prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and a homemade Italian dressing.
Check out this recipe 27
Dill Pickle Coleslaw
If you love pickles, then this easy to make dill pickle
infused coleslaw recipe is the perfect side dish packed with crispy crunchy
cabbage, pickled veggies, and lots of fresh dill.
Check out this recipe infused coleslaw recipe is the perfect side dish packed with crispy crunchy
cabbage, pickled veggies, and lots of fresh dill.
Best Grilled Mains for a Backyard BBQ
28
Party Ribs (Individually Smoked Ribs Recipe)
Individually smoked baby back ribs affectionately called "party ribs" across social media are not only a much faster and fun way to prepare BBQ ribs, but they also are incredibly delicious and perfect for sharing at your next BBQ.
Check out this recipe 29
Pellet Smoker Brisket Recipe
Learn all the tips and techniques on how to cook a brisket on an electric smoker using this ultimate guide.
Check out this recipe 30
Smoked Beef Ribs
Learn everything you need to know about smoking beef ribs (aka Dino ribs) for a crowd-pleasing and showstopping cook you can throw down on your pellet smoker or charcoal grill.
Check out this recipe 31
Smoked Chicken Legs
Get ready to savor the incredible flavors of smoked chicken legs. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating tender, juicy chicken legs with a delightful smoky essence. With a perfect balance of spices and a slow smoke, these chicken legs are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Check out this recipe 32
Smoked Country Style Ribs Recipe
These tender smoked country-style ribs are seasoned with a savory dry rub, slowly smoked over wood for incredible flavor, and finished to juicy perfection. Whether you're using bone-in or boneless ribs, this BBQ recipe is perfect for your smoker and easy enough for any home cook to master.
Check out this recipe 33
Pork Butt Burnt Ends Recipe
Transform a classic pork butt into tender, smoky burnt ends bursting with rich barbecue flavor. These caramelized bites of pork are slow-smoked to perfection, then tossed in a sweet and tangy glaze for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
Check out this recipe 34
Chuck Roast Burnt Ends Recipe
These Chuck Roast Burnt Ends are tender, smoky bites of beef, slow-smoked to perfection, and caramelized with a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for any barbecue feast, they deliver bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth goodness that will leave everyone craving more.
Check out this recipe 35
Smoked Burgers Recipe
Get ready for a flavor explosion with our mouth-watering smoked burgers! Perfectly seasoned and slow-smoked to juicy, smoky perfection, these burgers are a game-changer for any barbecue or grilling occasion.
Check out this recipe 36
Cowboy Butter Garlic Bread
Cowboy Butter Garlic Bread takes toasted ciabatta to the next level with a bold, buttery blend of garlic, herbs, lemon, and spices, topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Add seared steak slices for an irresistible, savory twist that transforms this cheesy garlic bread into a hearty, flavor-packed bite.
Check out this recipe 37
Chicken Caesar Garlic Bread
This recipe is everything you love about cheesy garlic bread married with the crispy and refreshing flavors of a chicken Caesar salad. Whether you want this as an elevated appetizer or to be a features main course, you will love this chicken Caesar garlic bread recipe!
Check out this recipe 38
Smoked Beef Birria
Smoked beef birria is a BBQ inspired riff on the traditional Mexican stew recipe that can be made on your charcoal or pellet grill.
Check out this recipe 39
How To Smoke A Chuck Roast
Learn everything you need to know about how to smoke a beef chuck roast on your charcoal or pellet smoker with this easy, step by step tutorial.
Check out this recipe 40
Smoked Salmon Burgers
Level up and enjoy these homemade cedar plank smoked salmon burgers using a pellet smoker or charcoal grill for a delicious take on burger night.
Check out this recipe 41
Smoked Beef Shank
Turn a tough cut of meat into the perfect shredded beef! Learn everything you need to know about smoking a showstopping beef shank (AKA "BBQ Thor's Hammer") recipe using this detailed tutorial.
Check out this recipe 42
Cajun Ribs Recipe
Check out this recipe 43
Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Affectionately deemed "meat candy", these smoked pork belly burnt ends are truly an out of this world BBQ delicacy. This recipe focuses on slow smoking pork belly that's tossed is a deliciously sweet and tangy BBQ sauce for the perfect indulgent bite!
Check out this recipe Festive Memorial Day Desserts Everyone Will Love
44
Lemon Posset Recipe
This Lemon Posset in Lemon Cups is a rich, creamy citrus dessert made with just three simple ingredients. It is served in hollowed-out lemon halves for an elegant presentation. With its silky texture, bright lemon flavor, and no-bake simplicity, this easy lemon posset recipe is the perfect make-ahead dessert.
Check out this recipe 45
Biscoff Cookie Fruit Pizza Recipe
Savor the irresistible flavors of this delicious biscoff cookie fruit pizza recipe. Begin by crafting a delectable crust using biscoff cookies for the base. Then, whip up a luscious filling by blending cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and a medley of fresh, succulent berries for a refreshing and addictive dessert.
Check out this recipe 46
Mini Basque Cheesecake Recipe
These mini Basque cheesecakes deliver the signature caramelized top and creamy, custard-like center in a perfectly portioned bite. Baked in a muffin tin for easy serving, they’re rich, beautifully caramelized, and effortlessly elegant, with no crust required.
Check out this recipe 47
Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
These Pistachio Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a rich, creamy pistachio cheesecake filling made with real pistachios and a swirl of pistachio cream. These are delicious and indulgent for the pistachio lover in your life.
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48
White Wine Slushies Recipe
Cool off with this refreshing White Wine Slushie recipe, combining crisp white wine with frozen fruit and a hint of citrus for a delightful summer treat. Perfect for warm days, this easy-to-make slushie is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Check out this recipe 49
Hugo Spritz Recipe
This refreshing Hugo Spritz recipe is a light and bubbly cocktail made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, mint, and lime. It's ideal for warm-weather sipping, whether you're hosting a summer brunch or relaxing on the patio. This easy to make spritz is the ultimate floral and citrusy aperitif.
Check out this recipe 50
Rose Aperol Spritz
A riff on a classic aperol spritz, this cocktail features the classic Campari mixed with simple syrup, grapefruit, and topped with sparkling rose.
Check out this recipe 51
Mini Watermelon Pina Colada
Cool off all summer long and learn how to make a frozen watermelon pina colada with this delicious, slightly boozy treat!
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