Memorial Day Recipes

ByEva Filer
3 Comments

Memorial Day is the unofficial beginning of summer, and that means it's time to fire up the grill, gather with friends and family and enjoy some seriously good food with big flavor. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or packing up for a picnic in the park this long weekend, this round-up of the best Memorial Day Recipes is full of crowd-pleasing favorites that are simple to make and big on flavor.

Memorial Day Recipes Dump Cake in a Bowl with a Spoon and Ice Cream

These easy Memorial Day recipes are a mix of homemade classics and fresh seasonal bites; with plenty of make-ahead options to keep your day stress-free. From crowd-pleasing appetizers to hearty mains and refreshing drinks, there's something for every taste. Whether you're craving something sweet, savory or sippable, you're in the right place to create the perfect Memorial Day menu that's sure to impress.

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Memorial Day Desserts

End your celebration on a sweet note with these festive desserts for Memorial Day. From fresh berries and nostalgic favorites to red, white and blue treats that bring the patriotic spirit, these are the best Memorial Day desserts to round out your holiday spread. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or keeping things low-key, these easy delectable dessert ideas are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

Red, White and Blue Dump Cake

Memorial Day Recipes Red White and Blue Dump Cake in a Bowl
Red, White and Blue Dump Cake
This Red, White & Blue Dump Cake is a festive, easy dessert with berry pie filling, white cake mix, and butter. Just layer and bake!
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue Dump Cake Served in a Bowl

Red, White and Blue Candy

Red, White and Blue Bark Candy broken into pieces with M&Ms, Oreos and sprinkles
Red White and Blue Candy
This Red, White and Blue Candy Bark layers chocolate, M&M's, Oreos, and sprinkles for a fun, no-bake treat perfect for patriotic holidays!
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue Candy Bark with M&Ms Oreos and sprinkles cut up

Red, White and Blue Cookies

Red, White and Blue Cookies with M&Ms in them all piled on parchment paper
Red White and Blue Cookies
Soft, chewy Red, White and Blue Cookies with festive M&M's. Perfect for Fourth of July or Memorial Day celebrations.
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue MMs Cookies

Red, White and Blue Cupcakes

Red, White and Blue Cupcakes cut in half on a plate to show Jello colors inside
Red, White and Blue Cupcakes
These Red, White and Blue Cupcakes are festive, fluffy, and filled with Jello stripes. Perfect for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July.
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue Poke Cupcakes on a Plate Cup Open

Red, White and Blue Poke Cake

Red, White and Blue Cake slice on a plate with icing and blueberries
Red, White and Blue Poke Cake
This Red, White and Blue Poke Cake is an easy, colorful Fourth of July dessert that's fluffy, fun, and perfect for patriotic parties.
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue Poke Cake slice on a plate with a fork

Layered Cheesecake

Red, White and Blue Layered Cheesecake on a plate with whipped cream close up
Layered Cheesecake
This Layered Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and vibrant with red, white & blue layers. Perfect for July 4th, Memorial Day or any celebration.
Check out this recipe
Layered Cheesecake with Blue White and Red layers Closer up

Strawberry Crisp Recipe

Memorial Day Recipes Strawberry Crisp being Scooped Out of Baking Dish
Strawberry Crisp Recipe
Fresh, juicy, strawberries covered in a crunchy, buttery oat topping is the perfect combination of flavors, made even better served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Our Strawberry Crisp Recipe is both simple and scrumptious, and you won't be able to wait to dig into it!
Check out this recipe
Strawberry Crisp Recipe Being Scooped Out of Dish

Red, White and Blue Fruit Cups

Memorial Day Recipes Red White and Blue Fruit Cups
Red, White and Blue Fruit Cups
These Red, White, and Blue Fruit Cups are the ultimate summer dessert. Fresh fruits and whipped cream make a crowd-pleasing treat.
Check out this recipe
Red White Blue Fruit Cups All Made on a Counter

Apple Pie a la Mode

Memorial Day Recipes Apple Pie on a Plate with Ice Cream
Apple Pie a la Mode
Apple Pie a la Mode: warm spiced apples, buttery crust, and melty vanilla ice cream come together for the ultimate cozy, classic dessert.
Check out this recipe
Apple Pie a la Mode Slice on a Plate

Red, White and Blue Trifle

Memorial Day Recipes Red White and Blue Trifle in a Dish
Red, White and Blue Trifle
My Red, White and Blue Trifle is a festive, easy dessert with layers of cake, pudding, and berries. Perfect for festive summer gatherings!
Check out this recipe
Red White and Blue Trifle with Blueberries in the back

Old Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler

Memorial Day Recipes Old Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler on a Plate with Ice Cream
Blackberry Cobbler Recipe
Warm Blackberry Cobbler Recipe with juicy berries and a golden buttery topping, brightened with cinnamon and fresh lemon.
Check out this recipe
Old Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler on a Plate with a Fork

Memorial Day Drinks

From fizzy spritzers to bold cocktails, these Memorial Day drink recipes are perfect for sipping in the sunshine. Whether you're serving up a big-batch lemonade for the kids or crafting something stronger for the adults, these festive drinks are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and packed with vibrant summer flavors.

Honey Strawberry Lemonade

Memorial Day Recipes Honey Strawberry Lemonade in Glasses
Honey Strawberry Lemonade Recipe
With a hint of added sweetness, our Honey Strawberry Lemonade recipe is quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor. It's perfect for the kids to enjoy, or to use as a base for a cocktail. This is one you will want to add to your summer menu!
Check out this recipe
Honey Strawberry Lemonade in Glasses with Honey Spoon

Bomb Pop Cocktail

Bomb Pop Cocktail with a Popscile as a garnish on a cutting board with stars all around
Bomb Pop Cocktail
This Bomb Pop Cocktail is a nostalgic red, white & blue drink made with simple ingredients. Great for summer parties & patriotic holidays.
Check out this recipe
Bomb Pop Cocktail with popsicles as garnish

Hennessy Strawberry Lemonade

Memorial Day Recipes Hennessy Strawberry Lemonade in Glasses
Hennessy Strawberry Lemonade
Light, refreshing, and easy to sip, this Hennessy Strawberry Lemonade is made with fresh strawberry lemonade, lime and Hennessy.
Check out this recipe
Hennessy Strawberry Lemonade in a Glass with Lime and Strawberry

Mixed Berry Mojito from Maple and Mango

If you're a fan of mojitos and love fresh berries, say hello to the summer cocktail of your dreams! This Mixed Berry Mojito Recipe combines sweet summer berries with classic mojito ingredients for the perfect summer sip.

Memorial Day Recipes Mixed Berry Mojito in a Glass Close Up

Get Maple and Mango's recipe for this Mixed Berry Mojito.

Blueberry Lavender Lemonade from Nuts and Twigs

Dive into this easy-to-make, refreshing Blueberry Lavender Lemonade, where zesty lemons meet the sweet tang of blueberries and the delicate floral notes of lavender. Perfectly refreshing and unique, this beverage will surely be a hit at any gathering or a treat for yourself on a sunny day. It's ready in less than 20 minutes.

Memorial Day Recipes Blueberry Lavender Lemonade

Get the recipe for this Blueberry Lavender Lemonade here.

Pink Mojito from Kitchen Divas

This Pink Mojito is full of strawberry, lime, rum, and let's not forget - fun! This easy cocktail is perfect for backyard cookouts, pool parties - any summer occasion, really!

Memorial Day Recipes Pink Mojito

Get Kitchen Diva's Pink Mojito Recipe.

Aperol Margarita from Frozen Bananas

Aperol Margarita is refreshing and delicious! It's made with tequila, Aperol, fresh lime juice, orange juice and seltzer.

Memorial Day Recipes Aperol Margarita in a Glass

Get this Aperol Margarita recipe here.

Red, White and Blue Jello Shots from Jello Joy

Lend a patriotic vibe to your 4th of July or Memorial Day party with these layered Red, White and Blue Jello Shots! They're super festive with American flag-colored layers of red, white and blue Jello. These adult-only summer treats are deliciously sweet and boozy!

Memorial Day Recipes Red White and Blue Jello Shots close up

Get Jello Joy's Red, White and Blue Jello Shots.

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Memorial Day Appetizers

When it comes to appetizers for Memorial Day, the goal is fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free. These easy appetizers for Memorial Day are simple to prep, big on texture and flavor, and ideal for serving while the grill heats up. Whether you're passing them around or setting up a casual buffet, each bite brings something crowd-pleasing to the table.

Coleslaw for Pulled Pork

Memorial Day Recipes Coleslaw for Pulled Pork in a Bowl
Coleslaw Dressing Recipe
This Coleslaw Dressing Recipe is creamy, tangy, and full of flavor. It's the perfect match for barbecue and an easy classic for any meal.
Check out this recipe
Coleslaw Dressing Recipe in a Bowl up close

Guacamole and Chips

Memorial Day Recipes Guacamole and Chips Served
Guacamole and Chips
Guacamole and Chips are a timeless duo, bringing together creamy, zesty guacamole and crispy, golden tortilla chips. My homemade recipe takes things up a notch with freshly fried corn chips and a guacamole packed with bright, bold flavors.
Check out this recipe
Guacamole and Chips served in a bowl with tortillas in the background

Burrata Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes from Rebecca Taig

Burrata Caprese is a twist on the classic Caprese salad. Marinated cherry tomatoes on top of creamy burrata drizzled with olive oil and sea salt flakes. This recipe is fresh flavorful and perfect for summer!

Memorial Day Recipes Burrata Caprese Salad on a Serving Platter

Get the recipe for this Burrata Caprese Salad.

Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Summer Berries from Hungry Whisk

Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Summer Berries & Honey is the perfect appetizer to enjoy during the warm months. With a creamy, whipped ricotta base, topped with fresh summer berries, a drizzle of honey, and a hint of lemon zest, this crostini recipe brings out the best of simple yet vibrant flavors. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or preparing for a special meal, it's the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Memorial Day Recipes Whipped Ricotta Crostinis on a Platter with Berries

Get the recipe here for this Whipped Ricotta Crostini.

Ultimate Potato Salad from The Cookin' Chicks

Ultimate Potato Salad- a classic potato salad that includes hard boiled eggs, crunchy celery, onion, and more tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing! Perfect for any BBQ, potluck, picnic, or summer outing!

Memorial Day Recipes Ultimate Potato Salad in a Bowl with Chives

Get this Ultimate Potato Salad recipe from The Cookin' Chicks.

Easy Watermelon Feta Basil Salad Recipe from The Cookin' Chicks

Enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer with this Watermelon Feta Basil Salad, featuring juicy watermelon, salty feta, and fresh basil, all drizzled with a honey lime vinaigrette. This easy and delicious salad is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a light, healthy meal.

Memorial Day Recipes Watermelon Feta Basil Salad in a Bowl

Get the Easy Watermelon Feta Basil Salad Recipe from Basics with Bails.

Memorial Day Dinner Ideas

From smoky pulled pork to sweet-and-savory sliders, these Memorial Day meal ideas are built for backyard cookouts and casual gatherings. Whether you're feeding a crowd or keeping things low-key, these dinner ideas for Memorial Day are flavorful, easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy after a day in the sun.

Easy Chicken Thigh Marinade

Memorial Day Recipes Easy Chicken Thigh Marinade on Baked Chicken Thighs
Easy Chicken Thigh Marinade
This Easy Chicken Thigh Marinade is packed with flavor and makes for a juicy, tender dish that's perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. The combination of olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, parsley and thyme create a balanced marinade that enhances the natural richness of the chicken.
Check out this recipe
Easy Chicken Thighs Piled on a Platter

Crock Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

Memorial Day Recipes BBQ Pulled Pork in a Slow Cooker with Root Beer Shredded
BBQ Pulled Pork in Crock Pot with Root Beer
This BBQ Pulled Pork in Crock Pot with Root Beer is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal! Slow cooked to perfection, this pork is tender, juicy, and infused with the sweet and smoky flavors of root beer and barbecue sauce. Perfect for sandwiches, sliders, weeknight dinner or meal prepping, this dish is an effortless way to feed a crowd with minimal effort.
Check out this recipe
BBQ Pulled Pork in Crock Pot with Root Beer Shredded with Forks

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Memorial Day Recipes BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Stacked on a Plate
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
My BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are the ultimate balance of smoky, tangy and crunchy. Tender pulled pork, slathered in rich barbecue sauce, gets piled high onto soft buns and topped with crisp, creamy coleslaw for the perfect bite.
Check out this recipe
BBQ pulled pork sliders with coleslaw stacked on a cutting board Close up

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Crockpot

Memorial Day Recipes Sweet and Sour Meatballs being Spooned out of a Crockpot
Sweet and Sour Meatballs Crockpot
Making a crowd-pleasing dish has never been easier with our Sweet and Sour Meatballs Crockpot recipe. With hints of fresh garlic and savory soy sauce, the flavors of sweet pineapple tidbits and tangy BBQ sauce meld together in the slow cooker, resulting in a mouthwatering glaze for the meatballs.
Check out this recipe
Sweet and Sour Meatballs Crockpot on a Serving Spoon

Meatball Sliders

Memorial Day Recipes Meatball Sliders being picked up
Meatball Sliders
These Meatball Sliders are the perfect bite-sized comfort food! Juicy meatballs coated in tangy BBQ sauce are nestled between soft buns, brushed with butter, and topped with sesame seeds for a deliciously toasty finish.
Check out this recipe
Meatball Sliders Being Held Close Up

Hawaiian Roll Sliders

Memorial Day Recipes Hawaiian Roll Sliders Stacked
Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Our Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and sweet with tender pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and crunchy coleslaw, all tucked into soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls.
Check out this recipe
Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Stacked

No matter how you spend the holiday: gathering around the table, firing up the grill, or just soaking up the sunshine, these Memorial Day recipes are here to keep things simple and delicious.

And if you're already thinking ahead to next year, stay tuned for even more new recipes: hot dogs with a twist, colorful pasta salads, turkey burgers packed with flavor, and summer side dishes that deserve the spotlight.

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3 Comments

  1. This is such an outstanding collection of patriotic desserts and summer recipes, perfect for Memorial Day and summer holidays. Can't wait to try these out! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

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