As the sun shines bright on Memorial Day, there’s nothing quite like gathering with friends and family to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. And what better way to do that than with a feast fit for the whole crew? Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for some tasty inspiration to bring to your neighbor’s potluck, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious Memorial Day recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic American favorites like cheeseburgers and BBQ ribs, to fresh takes on summer sides like grilled corn and watermelon salad, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering lineup. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories with these 20 scrumptious Memorial Day recipes.
Grilled BBQ Chicken with Honey Glaze
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the richness of BBQ sauce with the warmth of honey. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and honey until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the BBQ-honey glaze all over the chicken breasts.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic American Cheeseburgers with All the Fixings
Get ready for a nostalgic twist on a classic favorite! Our Classic American Cheeseburgers with all the fixings are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Pickle slices
– Mayonnaise or ketchup (optional)
– Mustard (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball, then flatten slightly into patties.
3. Brush vegetable oil on the grill or grill pan and cook burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading cheese on toasted buns, followed by lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayonnaise or ketchup, and mustard (if using).
6. Place cooked patties on each bun and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, smoky pulled pork sandwiches, perfect for a lazy weekend or a backyard BBQ. With just a few simple ingredients and some low-and-slow cooking, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful, juicy delight that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue rub
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 cup water
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickle slices for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the pork shoulder with barbecue rub, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly.
3. Place the pork in the smoker, adding wood chips as needed to maintain a consistent smoke flavor.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Tangy Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar
A refreshing twist on classic coleslaw, this recipe adds a tangy kick from apple cider vinegar and a crunchy texture from toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and toasted almonds.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe
A twist on traditional potato salad, this recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with creamy ranch dressing and crunchy toppings. Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baked potatoes, diced
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning. Mix until well coated.
2. Stir in chopped scallions, shredded cheese, and crumbled bacon.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Elevate your grilled corn game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines perfectly charred corn with a flavorful herb butter. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, chives, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Brush the corn ears with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred.
5. Spread the herb butter on each ear of corn during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Juicy Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
This sweet and savory salad is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling treat. With the combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and fragrant mint, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Lemonade with Fresh Berries
Elevate your summer refreshment game with this simple recipe that combines the brightness of lemonade with the sweetness and tanginess of fresh berries. This perfect blend is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Muddle the fresh berries in a separate bowl using a spoon or a muddler to release their juices and pulp.
4. Add the berry mixture to the lemonade mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with additional fresh berries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 hours (simply mix and chill!)
Firecracker Hot Dogs with Spicy Mustard
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy twist on a classic hot dog! Firecracker Hot Dogs with Spicy Mustard are the perfect combination of savory and sizzling.
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1/2 cup spicy mustard (see below for recipe)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sliced jalapeños or hot sauce, optional
Spicy Mustard Recipe:
– 1/2 cup yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook the hot dogs according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the spicy mustard by mixing together the yellow mustard, sriracha sauce, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the hot dogs by placing them on the hamburger buns.
4. Spread a generous amount of spicy mustard on each hot dog.
5. Top with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter
Impress your friends and family with this easy and delicious recipe for grilled shrimp skewers smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Classic Macaroni and Cheese with a Crispy Topping
Classic Macaroni and Cheese with a Crispy Topping Recipe
A comforting and creamy pasta dish gets an extra boost of flavor with a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crispy topping ingredients: 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar, mozzarella, melted butter, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with crispy topping (see below).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Crispy Topping:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni mixture before baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans
Add a kick to your classic baked beans with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the traditional sweetness of baked beans with a bold and spicy flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with this colorful and flavorful platter featuring a variety of grilled vegetables, finished with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper
– 1 yellow bell pepper
– 1 zucchini
– 1 yellow squash
– 1 red onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the grilled vegetables and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Red, White, and Blue Berry Trifle
A patriotic twist on the classic trifle, this dessert features layers of juicy strawberries, creamy vanilla custard, and sweet blueberries, perfect for Independence Day celebrations or any summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup store-bought or homemade vanilla custard
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sliced strawberries and blueberries.
4. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of strawberry-blueberry mixture, then a layer of vanilla custard. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
Cooking Time: None!
Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these creamy, dreamy sandwiches made with freshly baked cookies and your favorite ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (we recommend vanilla or cookie dough)
– 12-15 homemade chocolate chip cookies (recipe below or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: sprinkles, chopped nuts, caramel sauce
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely on wire rack.
Assembly:
1. Scoop your desired amount of ice cream onto a cooled cookie.
2. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy!
BBQ Ribs with Dry Rub and Smoky Sauce
Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs with Dry Rub and Smoky Sauce
Savor the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of slow-cooked BBQ ribs slathered in a tangy smoky sauce, all thanks to a simple dry rub. This recipe is perfect for a weekend gathering or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1/2 cup dry rub mixture (see below)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove membrane from back of ribs and season with dry rub, making sure to coat evenly.
- Cook for 2 hours or until tender and lightly charred.
- Baste with smoky BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 2.5 hours, including basting time.
Fresh Strawberry Shortcake
Summer’s sweetness is captured in this classic dessert featuring fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sweet biscuits. A simple yet impressive treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups biscuit or shortcake mix
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the biscuits according to package instructions. Let cool completely.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, mix sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and melted butter.
5. Split the cooled biscuits in half horizontally.
6. Spoon whipped cream over the bottom biscuit halves, followed by fresh strawberry mixture.
7. Top with remaining biscuit halves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (biscuits) + 10 minutes (whipping cream)
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweeten up your summer with this simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This grilled pineapple is caramelized to perfection and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple wedges with melted butter.
4. Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over grilled pineapple.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Patriotic Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Celebrate Independence Day with this classic American flag cake, featuring a moist vanilla sponge and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for patriotic gatherings or backyard barbecues!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (depending on cake thickness)
Cold Brew Iced Tea with Citrus Slices
Beat the heat with this simple and flavorful cold brew iced tea recipe infused with citrusy goodness!
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 4 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf tea)
– 1 orange, sliced into thin wheels
– 1 lemon, sliced into thin wedges
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large glass or ceramic container, combine the water and tea bags (or loose-leaf tea).
2. Steep for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
3. After steeping, remove the tea bags (or strain out the loose leaves) and discard.
4. Add sliced orange and lemon to the tea and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the citrus flavors to meld.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the cold brew tea over the ice.
6. Stir well and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (steeps in refrigerator)
Enjoy your refreshing and citrusy cold brew iced tea!
Summary
Get ready to fire up the grill and gather your loved ones for Memorial Day with these 20 mouth-watering recipes for a crowd! From classic American cheeseburgers to tangy coleslaw, smoky pulled pork sandwiches, and juicy watermelon salads, there’s something for everyone. Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade lemonade, strawberry shortcake, or patriotic flag cake. Don’t forget the savory options like grilled shrimp skewers, BBQ ribs, and baked beans. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to make this Memorial Day one to remember!
