Memorial Day often marks the unofficial start of cookout season, and this collection of 31 recipes makes it easy to decide what to bring, cook, or hope someone else will bring to the table. Some dishes are perfect for relaxed afternoons outdoors, while others work well for all-day gatherings when guests drop in and out.
Cookout season often begins with promises to keep things simple, only to end up with a table full of tempting dishes. These recipes suit everything from casual backyard hangouts to long holiday weekends when the food is part of the reason guests linger a little longer.
Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill
Few things say Memorial Day like the scent of ribs over charcoal. This Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill recipe captures that nostalgic, celebratory feeling. Charcoal adds deep, layered flavor that pairs beautifully with classic sides or a bright seasonal salad. These ribs are a crowd-pleaser that invite everyone to gather around the grill and enjoy the moment.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill
Crunchy & Spicy Fried Okra
For grab-and-go cookout snacks, these Crunchy & Spicy Fried Okra bites are hard to beat. They offer a satisfying crisp coating and a touch of heat, making them a lively addition to Memorial Day spreads. These bites work well as an appetizer or a casual platter for guests to snack on throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy & Spicy Fried Okra
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers
These Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers balance heat and sweetness for an exciting yet unfussy grill option. Skewers are perfect for keeping the grill active and for serving a crowd—flavorful, portable, and easy to pair with classic sides.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Cool, creamy, and simple, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a timeless side that balances smoky grilled flavors. It’s an easy, reliable choice for Memorial Day that pairs well with burgers, ribs, or chicken—adding a classic, comforting contrast to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken brings bright, fresh flavors to the cookout without being fussy. It’s substantial enough to stand out but light enough to complement salads and classic sides, making it a versatile and elegant option for outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Strawberry Lemonade
A cold pitcher of Strawberry Lemonade brightens any Memorial Day gathering. The balance of sweet and tart is refreshing on warm days and pairs well with grilled mains, making it an ideal, crowd-pleasing beverage.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
This Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes mixes smoky fruit and crisp vegetables for a bright, seasonal side. It offers contrast to richer barbecue items and makes a colorful, conversation-starting addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers are a deliciously indulgent twist on a cookout favorite. Crispy, smoky bacon elevates a classic burger and makes for a satisfying centerpiece that guests will remember.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers
Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers add a sweet, tropical note to the grill lineup. Caramelized mango and vegetables bring bright flavor and color, making them a fresh counterpoint to savory mains.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers
Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
This Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing brings bold flavors and cooling textures to the table. It’s a lively, lighter option that complements heavier barbecue dishes and keeps the menu interesting.
Get the Recipe: Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
Big Mac Tacos
Big Mac Tacos are a playful mash-up that brings familiar burger flavors into taco form. They’re fun to serve, easy to customize, and guaranteed to spark conversation and smiles at any Memorial Day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Light, bright, and perfect for spring, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp offer a seafood option that’s flavorful without being heavy. They work well as an appetizer or main and bring a fresh contrast to richer barbecue items.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
This BLT Pasta Salad combines smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tender pasta for a playful, satisfying side. It’s a modern twist on a classic that fills out the cookout table with bright, familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers
Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers turn a simple burger into something savory and memorable with caramelized onions and cheesy goodness. They’re hearty, comforting, and a tasty change from the usual beef patty.
Get the Recipe: Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers
Easy Three Bean Salad
Simple and reliable, this Easy Three Bean Salad brings bright acidity and texture to the table. It’s a refreshing counterpoint to rich grilled meats and works well in any cookout lineup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Three Bean Salad
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Juicy and smoky, Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are an easy crowd-pleaser that suits every palate. They’re versatile, pair with classic sides, and are straightforward to prepare, making them a go-to choice for Memorial Day cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Pickled Watermelon Rind
Pickled Watermelon Rind is a tangy, crunchy, and unexpected side that adds delightful contrast to smoky barbecue dishes. It’s a small, memorable addition that can spark conversation and refresh the palate between bites.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Watermelon Rind
Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs
Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs combine bright mustard and aromatic rosemary for a flavorful, easy-to-make main. They’re a great complement to other grill favorites and bring an herb-forward note to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes add Southern charm and a satisfying crunch to any Memorial Day table. Their lightly tangy interior and crispy exterior make them a versatile appetizer or side that pairs well with a variety of grilled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers deliver hearty portions of steak paired with crisp, charred vegetables. Skewers make serving simple and create a festive, balanced option that pairs easily with corn, salads, or roasted sides.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers
Smoked Berry Crisp
Smoked Berry Crisp is a warm, fruity dessert with a hint of smoke that makes it special for a cookout finale. Serve it on its own or with vanilla ice cream for a comforting sweet finish to the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter are an indulgent, flavorful centerpiece. The rich, herb-infused butter melts over hot steak, elevating each bite and pairing well with hearty sides for a satisfying Memorial Day feast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
Korean Galbi Ribs
Korean Galbi Ribs bring sweet-savory, caramelized flavors to the grill. They’re an exciting option that adds global flair while still fitting neatly into a traditional cookout spread.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs
Grilled Ratatouille
Grilled Ratatouille showcases seasonal vegetables with a smoky char, offering a colorful, vegetable-forward side or main for guests seeking a lighter option at the cookout.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Quick Smoked Tomatoes add smoky depth and juicy sweetness to any plate. Use them as a side, topping, or component in other dishes to enhance the barbecue flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce are smoky, crispy, and tangy—perfect for snacking and sharing. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and keep guests coming back for more as the party unfolds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter
Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks finished with Smoked Garlic Butter combine tender, evenly cooked beef with rich, aromatic butter. This technique elevates a simple steak into a memorable centerpiece for a special cookout.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter
Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa
Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa pair smoky chops with a fresh, sweet-sour salsa for a vibrant contrast. It’s an inviting option that feels both familiar and a little adventurous.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa
Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb
A Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb makes for an impressive centerpiece with deep, smoky flavor and tender meat. It’s well-suited for leisurely Memorial Day gatherings where the meal is meant to be savored.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb
Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts
Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts are tangy, aromatic, and simple to prepare. They offer a light but flavorful protein that pairs well with a wide range of sides and salads for a balanced Memorial Day menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts
Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets
Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets are bright, moist, and easy to grill. The citrus and dill keep the salmon fresh while foil seals in flavor and smoke, making this a light, satisfying option for any Memorial Day menu.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets