12 Memorial Day BBQ Recipes That Will Make Your Cookout Unforgettable

12 Memorial Day BBQ Recipes That Will Make Your Cookout Unforgettable is your ultimate guide to kicking off the summer season with a bang. Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend—it’s a celebration of freedom, community, and the unofficial start of sunny days, backyard games, and sizzling grills. Whether you’re honoring the day with family, friends, or neighbors, one thing’s for sure: a great BBQ is at the heart of every memorable gathering.

This carefully curated collection of recipes brings bold flavor, juicy textures, and smoky perfection straight to your grill. Think tender ribs slathered in sticky barbecue sauce, perfectly charred burgers loaded with toppings, grilled corn with zesty twists, and even a few unexpected favorites like spicy shrimp skewers and grilled pineapple desserts. Whether you’re a pitmaster at heart or just firing up the coals for the first time, these recipes are designed to be both foolproof and flavor-packed.

We’ve included a variety of options to satisfy every guest—meaty mains, irresistible sides, and even some veggie-forward dishes that earn their place on the grill. Each recipe is more than just instructions; it’s an invitation to slow down, laugh a little louder, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a well-cooked meal under the open sky.

So fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and let’s dive into 12 unforgettable BBQ recipes that will make your Memorial Day one for the books.

Veggie and Cheese Platter

Creating a veggie and cheese platter is a fun and simple way to add color and flavor to your Memorial Day BBQ. It’s a delightful mix of fresh vegetables paired with a variety of cheeses, making it both a healthy and satisfying option for your guests. The crunchy veggies and creamy cheeses come together to create a refreshing snack that everyone will enjoy.

Plus, it’s totally customizable! You can choose your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and dips to fit your taste. Whether you prefer classic options like carrots and celery or something a bit more unique, this platter is sure to impress. Here’s a quick recipe to whip up your own veggie and cheese platter:

Ingredients

• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup assorted cheese cubes (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda)
• 1 cup hummus or ranch dip
• 1 cup whole grain crackers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. Arrange the Platter: On a large serving platter, artfully place the vegetables and cheese cubes in sections.
3. Add Dips: Place small bowls of hummus or ranch dip in the center of the platter.
4. Fill in with Crackers: Surround the veggies and cheese with whole grain crackers for a complete snack.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese Salad Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Italian salad. They bring together fresh mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, all drizzled with balsamic glaze. The combination of flavors is refreshing and light, making them a perfect addition to your Memorial Day BBQ.

These skewers are incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time. Just assemble the ingredients on wooden sticks, and you’ll have an eye-catching appetizer that guests will love. They’re not only tasty but also a great way to showcase fresh summer produce!

Ingredients

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread a cherry tomato on it, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends.
2. Season: Once all the skewers are assembled, drizzle them with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and enjoy them fresh!

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime staple that takes your BBQ to the next level. The sweet, smoky flavor of the corn pairs perfectly with the zesty chili lime butter, creating a deliciously tangy kick that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and requires just a few simple steps, making it the perfect addition to your Memorial Day cookout.

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly customizable. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, and the combination of fresh lime juice and chili powder adds a vibrant twist to the classic corn on the cob. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy this delightful treat together!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Make the Chili Lime Butter: In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Grill the Corn: Place the husked corn on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has nice grill marks.
4. Brush with Butter: Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and immediately brush on the chili lime butter generously.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot, enjoying the burst of flavors!

BBQ Beef Ribs with Homemade Sauce

Get ready for some mouthwatering BBQ beef ribs that are sure to impress your guests this Memorial Day! These ribs are juicy, tender, and coated in a rich homemade sauce that adds a burst of flavor with each bite. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie, this recipe is simple enough to make and promises to be a highlight of your cookout.

The combination of smoky meat and tangy sauce creates a delicious contrast that everyone will love. Plus, the homemade sauce lets you customize the flavors to your liking, ensuring that your ribs have that personal touch. Let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of beef ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Rub the beef ribs with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally. Brush the homemade sauce on the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve: Once the ribs are tender and cooked through, remove them from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Spicy BBQ pulled pork sliders are a fantastic addition to any Memorial Day cookout. They combine tender, slow-cooked pork with a kick of spice, all nestled between soft slider buns. The balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors makes each bite a delight. Plus, making these sliders is simple, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

These sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd and can be customized with your favorite toppings, like coleslaw or pickles. They’re not just tasty but also fun to eat, making them a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 slider buns
• Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, extra BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil and coat it evenly with the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and add BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix it back with the juices and sauce in the slow cooker.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns lightly. Spoon a generous amount of the pulled pork onto each bun. Add your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw or pickles.
5. Serve: Enjoy the sliders immediately, or keep them warm in the slow cooker until ready to serve.

Stuffed Grilled Peppers

Stuffed grilled peppers are a delicious and colorful addition to any Memorial Day BBQ. They offer a perfect blend of smoky flavors from the grill and the hearty goodness of a savory filling. Easy to make, these vibrant peppers can be customized with your choice of grains, beans, and spices, making them suitable for everyone at your cookout.

These stuffed beauties aren’t just tasty; they’re also a feast for the eyes! The combination of colorful bell peppers and a flavorful filling creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Plus, they’re simple enough for anyone to whip up, making them a great choice for both novice and seasoned grillers.

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to make them stand upright.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa or couscous, black beans, corn, onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the cheese.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each pepper with the mixture, packing it in nicely. Top with the remaining cheese.
4. Grill the Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your stuffed grilled peppers!

Classic Potato Salad with a Twist

This classic potato salad adds a refreshing twist that will surprise and delight your guests! With a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and full of vibrant ingredients.

The addition of colorful bell peppers and zesty lemon juice brightens up the traditional dish, making it ideal for a Memorial Day BBQ. Not only is this salad easy to prepare, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats and other summer favorites.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (various colors)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the diced potatoes with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled potatoes, diced bell peppers, green onions, and parsley. Pour the dressing over and gently mix until everything is well combined.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your colorful and tasty potato salad!

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to your Memorial Day BBQ. These skewers are marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, giving them a bright and zesty flavor that perfectly complements the smoky notes from the grill. They’re not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a go-to choice for any cookout.

The juicy chicken pieces are easy to bite into and packed with flavor, making them a hit among guests. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve them as an appetizer, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad

This Watermelon Feta Salad is the perfect dish for your Memorial Day BBQ. It combines juicy watermelon with creamy feta cheese for a refreshing treat that balances sweet and savory flavors. With fresh mint and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s not just tasty, but also super easy to whip up.

Ideal for warm weather, this salad is a crowd-pleaser and takes only minutes to prepare. It’s light, refreshing, and a great way to keep things cool at your cookout!

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, diced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Zesty Grilled Shrimp Tacos

If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your Memorial Day cookout, these zesty grilled shrimp tacos are just the ticket. They’re quick to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, making them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. The combination of grilled shrimp and vibrant toppings creates a lively dish that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

The tangy lime and flavorful seasonings elevate the shrimp, while warm tortillas wrap everything together beautifully. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, these tacos are easy to assemble and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 2 limes

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and toss until well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp are grilling, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place grilled shrimp on each tortilla and top with diced pineapple, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top before serving.

Peach and Blueberry Crisp

This Peach and Blueberry Crisp is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer at your Memorial Day BBQ. The sweet, juicy peaches paired with tart blueberries create a delightful contrast, and the crunchy topping adds a comforting texture. It’s simple to whip up and can be served warm, making it a cozy dessert that everyone will love.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that brightens up your cookout. Whether you enjoy it on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this crisp is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches and blueberries. Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, and mix well. Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy warm with a scoop of ice cream on top!

Homemade BBQ Baked Beans

Homemade BBQ baked beans are a must-have for any gathering, especially on Memorial Day. They’re sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect side dish to complement grilled meats. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time to let the flavors meld together.

This recipe results in beans that are deliciously rich and smoky, with a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of BBQ. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish will surely impress your guests and add a comforting touch to your cookout.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained kidney beans, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, diced onion, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
5. Let cool slightly before serving; they’re best enjoyed warm!

Final Thoughts

A great Memorial Day cookout is about more than just the food—it’s about the moments we share, the stories told around the picnic table, and the joy of being together. But let’s be honest: amazing food helps make those moments even better. With these 12 crowd-pleasing BBQ recipes, you’re all set to turn your backyard into the most delicious party on the block.

Whether you go all in with smoky ribs and flame-grilled burgers or keep it fresh with grilled veggies and lighter bites, there’s something here to spark inspiration for every kind of cookout. So gather your ingredients, invite your crew, and get ready to serve up something unforgettable.

Here’s to full plates, happy hearts, and a Memorial Day to remember. Let the grilling begin!