Nothing says Memorial Day weekend like firing up the grill. The smell of sizzling burgers, slow-cooked ribs, and grilled corn instantly sets the mood for a backyard feast. Whatever feast you’re planning for this holiday should include these must-have Memorial Day recipes: BBQ mains, cookout sides, and refreshing drinks.
Memorial Day Recipes to Kick Off Summer
Memorial Day recipes should be fun to cook and even better to eat. From main dishes to ice-cold drinks, we’ve rounded up the top picks. Let’s get your holiday table ready.
1. Classic Smash Burgers 🍔
Classic smash burgers have patties with crispy and beefy edges. The intense heat applied to each burger develops a deep char that enhances the meat’s natural taste. A soft bun with melted cheese completes the sandwich and makes it even more satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 burger buns
- 2 tbsp butter
Directions:
- Form loose 2-ounce meatballs, but avoid packing them too tight so they cook evenly.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or flat-top grill until it starts smoking.
- Place the meatballs on the surface, then press them down with a spatula to make them thin.
- Sprinkle with salt and let them sear for 90 seconds to create a crispy crust. Flip them once, then immediately add cheese and let it melt.
- Toast the buns with butter while the burgers finish cooking. Stack everything together and serve.
2. BBQ Baby Back Ribs 🍖
BBQ baby back ribs turn tender after slow cooking and develop a juicy, smoky flavor. A thick layer of BBQ sauce coats the surface and caramelizes over the heat. The combination of slow-roasted meat and bold spices makes these ribs a cookout favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 rack baby back ribs
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Directions:
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to help them absorb the seasoning.
- Rub the meat with a mix of brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and garlic powder.
- Wrap the ribs in foil and bake at 275°F for 2.5 hours to tenderize the meat.
- Unwrap the ribs and brush the entire surface with BBQ sauce.
- Grill over medium heat for 10 minutes and turn them occasionally to make the sauce caramelize.
- Rest the ribs before slicing to keep them juicy.
3. Creamy Southern Potato Salad 🥔
Creamy southern potato salad has a smooth texture that pairs well with its bold, tangy dressing. The potatoes absorb the seasonings and create a satisfying bite with every forkful. Chilling the salad deepens the flavors and makes it a perfect side for warm-weather meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes
- ½ cup mayo
- 2 tbsp mustard
- ¼ cup chopped pickles
- 2 boiled eggs, chopped
- Salt and paprika to taste
Directions:
- Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then chop them into bite-sized pieces while still warm.
- Stir together mayo, mustard, chopped pickles, and seasonings to create a creamy dressing.
- Toss the potatoes with the dressing and fold in chopped boiled eggs for extra texture.
- Chill for an hour before serving to meld the flavors together.
4. Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad 🥓
Bacon ranch pasta salad blends creamy ranch dressing with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. The chilled pasta provides a refreshing contrast that makes the entire dish ideal for summer gatherings. Each bite delivers a balance of smoky, cheesy, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, crumbled
Directions:
- Cook the pasta until al dente (firm to the bite, slightly chewy), then rinse it under cold water so it stops cooking.
- Toss it with ranch dressing, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon, making sure to evenly coat everything.
- Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving.
5. Strawberry Lemonade 🍓🍋
Strawberry lemonade bursts with sweet strawberries and a tart citrus kick. Ice-cold water smooths out the flavors and creates the perfect drink for hot days. Fresh strawberry slices add extra sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries
- 1 cup lemon juice
- ¾ cup sugar
- 4 cups cold water
Directions:
- Blend strawberries with water until smooth, then strain the mixture to remove any pulp.
- Stir in fresh lemon juice and sugar so the flavors balance out.
- Add cold water, then serve over ice with fresh strawberry slices.
6. Spiked Watermelon Slush 🍉
Spiked watermelon slush features a smooth texture that’s enhanced with a fruity, refreshing taste. A splash of liquor keeps the drink crisp and adds a fun kick. The icy consistency makes this slush perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen watermelon chunks
- ½ cup rum or vodka
- 1 tbsp honey
- Juice of 1 lime
Directions:
- Blend frozen watermelon chunks with rum or vodka until smooth.
- Add a squeeze of lime, then drizzle in honey if the mixture needs extra sweetness.
- Pour into chilled glasses, then garnish with fresh mint.
Memorial Day Recipes: Fire Up the Grill and Enjoy!
A Memorial Day cookout is a great way to celebrate the start of summer with family and friends. Juicy burgers, smoky ribs, creamy sides, and refreshing drinks will surely bring everyone together. Fire up the grill, fill your plate, and make the most of this delicious holiday weekend!
Got a favorite BBQ dish or cookout memory? Share it in the comments below! 🍔🔥
❓ FAQs About Memorial Day Recipes
1️⃣ How do I keep smash burgers from drying out?
Use 80/20 ground beef and cook over high heat for a quick sear.
2️⃣ Can I prepare ribs ahead of time?
Yes, bake them the day before, then grill with BBQ sauce before serving.
3️⃣ What’s the best way to grill corn on the cob?
Brush with butter, season, and grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes.
4️⃣ How long should potato salad chill before serving?
At least one hour but overnight enhances the flavor.
5️⃣ Can I make pasta salad in advance?
Yes, make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
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