These Memorial Day Food Ideas make it easy to plan a delicious cookout without spending a fortune. This list includes 35 family-tested recipes—from grilled favorites and easy sides to patriotic desserts—that are perfect for feeding a crowd.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or keeping things simple at home, these recipes are budget-friendly, easy to prep, and always a hit with families.

4 hot dogs topped with ketchup and mustard on a platter with small bowls of potato chips and potato salad on the side.
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We’ve made so many of these recipes for our own Memorial Day cookouts over the years. I always try to keep things simple and affordable, especially when feeding a crowd.

You don’t need a complicated menu to have a great day—just a few easy main dishes, some make-ahead sides, and a fun dessert. These are the recipes my family comes back to again and again because they work for real life.

Why These Memorial Day Recipes Work

  • Budget-friendly ingredients – Many recipes use simple pantry staples or affordable cuts of meat
  • Easy to prep ahead – Pasta salads, desserts, and sides can be made the day before
  • Great for feeding a crowd – Recipes like sliders, baked beans, and salads stretch easily
  • Kid-approved favorites – Familiar flavors that the whole family will actually eat
  • Flexible and customizable – Easy to swap ingredients based on what you have
  • Balanced menu options – Includes mains, sides, fresh salads, and desserts
  • Perfect for busy holidays – Simple recipes that don’t require a lot of hands-on time

Easy Main Dish Recipes

These easy main dish recipes are perfect for Memorial Day when you want something simple but still delicious. From burgers and chicken to kabobs and ribs, these options are great for feeding a crowd without a lot of work. Many can be prepped ahead or cooked quickly on the grill.

1. Smash Burgers

Crispy edges and juicy centers make these a cookout favorite. Affordable and quick to cook for a crowd.

A close-up of a Smash Burger Recipe featuring melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a juicy beef patty in a soft bun, with crinkle-cut fries and pickles in the background.
Smash Burger Recipe
Anyone can easily make this Smash Burger Recipe with fabulous results. The thin patties are browned to perfection but flavorful and juicy on the inside.
Smash Burger Recipe

2. Hot Dogs

A classic Memorial Day staple that’s budget-friendly and kid-approved.

Three hot dogs on buns with ketchup and mustard.
Grilled Hot Dogs
Learn how to grill hot dogs for perfect hot dogs each and every time. Try these tips to get a delicious grilled hot dog everyone will love.
Grilled Hot Dogs

3. Shish Kabobs

Easy to customize with whatever meat and veggies you have on hand—great for using up leftovers.

A close-up of shish kabobs on skewers with chunks of grilled beef, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onions, served on a black plate and garnished with herbs.
Shish Kabobs
Shish kabobs are so easy and always a crowd pleaser. Alternate beef and veggies in a delicious marinade for the best meal in minutes.
Shish Kabobs

4. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Quick cooking and perfect for lighter options alongside heavier BBQ dishes.

Grilled shrimp kabobs with zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, and red onion are arranged on a white plate, with a lemon slice visible in the background.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Lots of vegetables and flavorful shrimp combine to make easy Grilled shrimp kabobs. In 10 minutes or less, you can have dinner on the table!
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

5. Steak Kabobs

A hearty option that still stretches meat further by combining with vegetables.

A plate of grilled steak kabobs recipe featuring chunks of beef, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, garnished with parsley. A fork and bowl of fresh herbs sit beside the plate for a fresh finishing touch.
Steak Kabobs Recipe
Grilled steak kabobs recipe has everything you need for a great meal. Flavorful steak and tender veggies combine on a skewer for an amazing dinner.
Steak Kabobs Recipe

6. Grilled Teriyaki BBQ Chicken

Simple marinade with big flavor—great for prepping ahead.

Grilled BBQ Teriyaki Chicken is inexpensive, quick and always a crowd pleaser. Give this tender and flavorful chicken a try for a great dinner.
BBQ Teriyaki Chicken
Looking for a grilled chicken recipe? You will love how easy this grilled teryaki chicken with bbq recipe is! Simple ingredients but packed with flavor!
BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

7. Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Light, fresh, and pairs well with almost any side dish.

Grilled chicken with lemon wedges on a white platter.
Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
Jazz up plain chicken with this tasty Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. The chicken is so tender and the marinade is light and delicious.
Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken

8. Crock Pot Dr. Pepper Ribs

Set it and forget it—perfect if you don’t want to stand by the grill all day.

Crockpot Dr Pepper Ribs
Crock Pot Dr Pepper Ribs has the perfect amount of flavor and the meat is tender from being slow cooked all day. You won't believe how easy this recipe is.
Crockpot Dr Pepper Ribs

9. How to Grill Steak

A go-to guide for making perfectly cooked steak every time.

A white plate with grilled steak slices topped with a pat of butter and a side of sautéed zucchini, garnished with herbs. A napkin, forks, and extra steak and herbs rest nearby on a rustic table.
Grilled Steak
Learn how to grill steak so that it turns out perfectly each and every time. We have lots of tips and tricks for the best steak!
Grilled Steak

10. Easy Burger Sliders

Perfect for feeding a crowd and easy for kids to grab and eat.

A close-up of a delicious cheeseburger slider. The slider has a fluffy Hawaiian Roll bun, a juicy beef patty, and is topped with melted cheese and sauce, dripping slightly over the sides. The background hints at a slice of pickle and another sandwich, perfect for your next hamburger recipe.
Hawaiian Roll Hamburger Sliders
Try this easy Hawaiian Roll Hamburger Recipe that you can make in 15 minutes. With the help of Hawaiian Rolls you will have your dinner ready in no time at all.
Hawaiian Roll Hamburger Sliders

Pasta Salads & BBQ Sides

These pasta salads and BBQ sides are must-haves for any Memorial Day cookout. They’re easy to make ahead, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd. From classic macaroni salad to flavorful pasta dishes, these sides pair perfectly with any grilled main dish.

11. Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

Simple ingredients and easy to make ahead—perfect for busy holidays.

A bowl of Easy Pasta Salad with rotini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, cheese cubes, and herbs sits on a table, surrounded by plates, utensils, and fresh vegetables.
Easy Pasta Salad
Take a look at this Easy Pasta Salad Recipe. It is the most simple pasta salad recipe ever and it feeds a crowd. The best pasta salad recipe is so easy.
Easy Pasta Salad

12. Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

A flavorful crowd favorite that pairs well with grilled meats.

A large white bowl filled with Italian Pasta Salad—colorful rotini, cherry tomatoes, black olives, green bell peppers, cheese cubes, and shredded cheese—sits on a light surface, surrounded by wooden utensils and fresh ingredients.
Italian Pasta Salad
Italian pasta salad recipe! Easy Italian pasta salad has the best flavor. Pasta salad with Italian dressing is the perfect side dish recipe.
Italian Pasta Salad

13. Easy Macaroni Salad Recipe

A must-have BBQ side that’s creamy, simple, and inexpensive.

A wooden spoon holds creamy Easy Macaroni Salad with elbow pasta, celery, peas, red onion, and cheese cubes above a bowl filled with more of the same salad.
Easy Macaroni Salad
This Easy Macaroni Salad recipe is the perfect side dish to bring to Summer BBQ’s, parties and more! Easy macaroni salad is loaded with veggies, cheese and more. You will love the creamy dressing.
Easy Macaroni Salad

Fresh Summer Salads

These fresh summer salads add a light and refreshing balance to your Memorial Day menu. Made with simple ingredients like crisp vegetables and seasonal fruit, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for warm weather gatherings.

14. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad

Festive, refreshing, and perfect for a patriotic spread.

A bowl of 4th of July Fruit Salad—fresh strawberries, blueberries, and banana slices—sits on a table with patriotic red, white, and blue decorations and a stars-and-stripes napkin alongside two forks.
4th of July Fruit Salad
You are going to love this red white and blue fruit salad. This easy recipe is one of my favorite 4th of July Salad ideas. The fruit glaze in this 4th of July Fruit salad recipe is amazing! So tangy and sweet.
4th of July Fruit Salad

15. Strawberry Spinach Salad

Light and fresh with a sweet and savory combination.

A vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad features sliced strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, pecans, and poppy seeds atop fresh spinach. Extra toppings surround the bowl, with a fork and red-checkered napkin completing the inviting scene.
Spinach Strawberry Salad
Spinach Strawberry Salad is easy to make at home and makes the perfect meal. Lots of fresh ingredients and delicious dressing make this salad amazing.
Spinach Strawberry Salad

16. Broccoli Cranberry Salad

Crunchy, slightly sweet, and easy to prep ahead of time.

A close-up of a wooden spoon holding a creamy Broccoli Cranberry Salad with chopped red onions, raisins, and sunflower seeds, with more salad in the blurred background.
Broccoli Cranberry Salad
Broccoli cranberry salad is savory and sweet for amazing flavor in each bite. Broccoli salad has the best dressing and it is so simple.
Broccoli Cranberry Salad

Classic Memorial Day Sides

Classic Memorial Day sides are the recipes everyone expects to see at a cookout. From potato salad and coleslaw to baked beans, these easy sides are budget-friendly, simple to make, and perfect for serving with burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and ribs.

17. Old Fashioned Potato Salad

A true cookout staple that can be made the day before.

A wooden spoon holds up a serving of creamy, Traditional Potato Salad Recipe with chunks of potato and celery, above a scalloped bowl filled with more salad on a rustic white table.
Traditional Potato Salad Recipe
This is the best potato salad recipe. Skip the store bought stuff and make this delicious potato salad at home. This southern potato salad will be a hit!
Traditional Potato Salad Recipe

18. The Best Coleslaw Recipe

Perfect for topping sandwiches or serving alongside BBQ.

A bowl of coleslaw salad with a fork and a white bowl. extra coleslaw and bowls in the background.
Coleslaw Recipe
This coleslaw recipe is easy to make and it is the best coleslaw recipe. You only need a few ingredients to make this easy side dish.
Coleslaw Recipe

19. Quick and Easy Baked Beans

Hearty, filling, and one of the most affordable side dishes.

Close-up of a Baked Beans Recipe in a rich, glossy sauce with pieces of bacon, being stirred with a wooden spoon.
Baked Beans Recipe
You are going to love this simple but delicious baked beans recipe.
Baked Beans Recipe

Potato & Grilled Side Dishes

These potato and grilled side dishes are the perfect addition to any Memorial Day cookout. From crispy fries to simple grilled vegetables and corn on the cob, these easy sides are affordable, flavorful, and pair well with all your favorite main dishes.

20. Air Fryer French Fries

Crispy and easy to make without heating up the kitchen.

A plate of crispy golden air fryer French fries garnished with chopped herbs, served with a small bowl of ketchup in the background.
Air Fryer French Fries
Make crispy air fryer french fries with only 3 ingredients. This is such an easy side dish or snack that is ready in 15 minutes.
Air Fryer French Fries

21. Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

A slightly healthier option with great flavor.

A plate of sweet potato fries with a fork.
Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Making sweet potato fries doesn’t have to be difficult. Make this oven baked sweet potato fries recipe for the perfect side dish recipe.
Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

22. Grilled Asparagus

Quick, healthy, and easy to cook alongside your main dish.

A plate of roasted asparagus spears garnished with fresh lemon wedges, served on a white dish—perfect inspiration for your next grilled asparagus recipe.
Grilled Asparagus
This is the easiest Grilled Asparagus Recipe you will try. There is no fuss and practically no work in making delicious grilled asparagus.
Grilled Asparagus

23. Grilled Broccoli Side Dish Recipe

Healthy and delicious side dish that we make all summer long.

A close-up of grilled broccoli on a fork, showcasing charred grill marks, with a sliced lemon in the background.
Grilled Broccoli
You will love how easy this Grilled Broccoli Side Dish recipe is. The entire family will love this easy grilled broccoli recipe! It’s packed with flavor!
Grilled Broccoli

24. Grilled Zucchini Spears

A great way to add vegetables to your cookout menu.

Grilled zucchini spears garnished with herbs rest on a white plate, accompanied by lemon wedges. A green textured cloth and a pair of serving tongs sit nearby, completing the presentation.
Grilled Zucchini Spears
Get the grill ready and make these delicious Grilled Zucchini Spears. This is the perfect side dish to try for Summer that is easy, tasty and frugal.
Grilled Zucchini Spears

25. Grilled Corn on the Cob

One of the most popular Memorial Day sides—simple and inexpensive.

5 or 6 grilled corns on the cobs on a white plate topped with parsley and black pepper.
How to Grill Corn on the Cob
How to grill corn on the cob. This grilled corn on the cob recipe will give you the perfect corn on the cob every single time.
How to Grill Corn on the Cob

Appetizers & Party Favorites

These appetizers and party favorites are perfect for snacking while the grill heats up. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and great for keeping everyone happy until the main dishes are ready.

26. Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers

A crowd favorite with bold flavor—great for snacking while grilling.

A plate of bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with creamy cheese, served with a side of white dipping sauce. The bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are arranged neatly on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Easy appetizer recipe – This Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers recipe is amazing. Only 3 ingredients to make the best bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers!
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

27. Homemade Salsa

Fresh, simple, and perfect with chips for an easy appetizer.

A bowl of chunky red salsa garnished with fresh cilantro, surrounded by tortilla chips on a wooden surface—classic flavors made from an easy homemade salsa recipe.
Homemade Salsa
Homemade Salsa Recipe is so easy that you will not believe it.  Make this in minutes and enjoy the best salsa and chips at home. Yum!
Homemade Salsa

Memorial Day Desserts

These Memorial Day desserts are the perfect way to end your cookout on a sweet note. From easy no-bake treats to festive red, white, and blue favorites, these recipes are simple to make, budget-friendly, and always a hit with a crowd.

28. 4th of July Fruit Kabobs

Fresh, simple, and great for balancing out heavier foods.

4th of July Fruit Kabobs
You have to try this fun dessert – 4th of july fruit kabobs where we make fruit kabobs look like the American flag. So easy to do with the kids.
4th of July Fruit Kabobs

29. The Best Red White and Blue Cake

A festive centerpiece dessert that’s perfect for celebrations.

A slice of red, white and blue cake adorned with a drizzle of red icing, a small American flag, and shiny star toppers sits invitingly on a white plate. A silver fork lies beside it, poised against a backdrop of star-patterned fabric.
Red White and Blue Cake
Make this Quick and easy red white and blue cake today! The best 4th of July desserts with the bold vibrant colors. Make this 4th of July cake this year.
Red White and Blue Cake

30. Red, White and Blue Drink

Fun and colorful—great for kids and parties.

Three tall glasses filled with a festive Red White and Blue Drink, each layered and topped with ice, sit among patriotic decorations and American flags in the background.
Red White and Blue Drink
Don’t you love those red, white, and blue drinks for fourth of July. Here I show you How to make Red, White, and Blue Drink to easily impress your guests.
Red White and Blue Drink

31. Red, White and Blue Jello

Easy to make ahead and always a hit with families.

Three clear plastic cups filled with layered red white and blue Jello desserts, topped with a cherry, are arranged on a white plate with festive party decorations in the background.
Red White and Blue Jello
You have to try this easy Red, White, and Blue Jello next time for your 4th of July party. It is easy to make, the kids love it and everyone will be impressed.
Red White and Blue Jello

32. Icebox Cake

No-bake and perfect for hot weather—great for prepping in advance.

A close-up of a 4th of July Icebox Cake with graham crackers, whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and whole blueberries, served on a white plate.
4th of July Icebox Cake
4th of July icebox cake is the perfect no bake treat with tasty layers of cream cheese, fruit and more. The red, white and blue is festive.
4th of July Icebox Cake

33. Puppy Chow Recipe 

A simple, budget-friendly treat that’s easy to make in large batches.

4th of July puppy chow recipe
4th of July puppy chow recipe is a simple patriotic treat perfect to make for fourth of July or Memorial Day. Everyone will love red white and blue muddy buddies.
4th of July puppy chow recipe

34. Red White and Blue Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Sweet and salty with a festive twist.

Red white and blue chocolate covered pretzels
Celebrate the 4th of July with these festive and tasty Red white and blue chocolate covered pretzels. They are super easy to make, inexpensive and so colorful with the red, white and blue. Give these a try!
Red white and blue chocolate covered pretzels

35. Chocolate Dipped Rice Krispie Treats

Kid-friendly and easy to customize with decorations.

4th of July chocolate dipped rice krispie treats
Try making 4th of July chocolate dipped rice krispie treats for a delicious and patriotic recipe. We love to make red white and blue treats for July 4th and Memorial Day.
4th of July chocolate dipped rice krispie treats

Tips for Planning a Memorial Day Menu

  • Choose 1–2 main dishes and keep sides simple
  • Add make-ahead dishes like pasta salad or potato salad
  • Include a mix of hot and cold foods
  • Use budget-friendly recipes like sliders and baked beans to feed a crowd
  • Prep as much as possible the day before

FAQs

What food is traditionally served on Memorial Day?

Memorial Day meals usually include grilled foods like burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and ribs. Popular sides include pasta salad, potato salad, baked beans, and corn on the cob, along with simple desserts and fresh fruit.

What is the most popular Memorial Day food?

Burgers and hot dogs are the most popular, followed by pasta salads, baked beans, and watermelon. These foods are affordable, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a group.

More Easy Holiday Recipes

I hope these Memorial Day Food Ideas help you plan an easy and delicious cookout for your family and friends. Don’t forget to rate the recipes you try and leave a comment—we love hearing what worked for you and how you made it your own!

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Carrie Barnard — a professional food blogger with over 14 years of experience helping busy families make dinner fast, easy, and affordable.

At Eating on a Dime, I share simple, budget-friendly recipes that are tested in my own kitchen and approved by my 8 kids. With millions of readers each month, I’m here to help you cook real food for real families — without the stress.

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Comments

  1. Patricia Salvant says:

    This Memorial Day recipe collection should get me through the summer. Great

    Reply
    1. Kathy - Eating on a Dime Team says:

      Patricia – I’m so glad! We love these ideas.

      Reply