29 Memorial Day recipes to make your long weekend unforgettable
There’s a special kind of magic when food makes people forget what time it is, and that’s exactly what happens with this collection of 29. The only real debate will be whether to start with something crunchy, cheesy, or meaty—good luck with that. This might just be one of those weekends where the food becomes the main event without anyone saying it out loud.
Homemade Buckeyes
For anyone who loves peanut butter and chocolate, Homemade Buckeyes are a fun option for a treat. Their simple design makes them easy to serve, and they’re ideal for sharing during gatherings. This snack is sweet and rich without feeling overcomplicated. Perfect for kids and adults alike during day-long celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Combining noodles with cooked veggies adds a nice texture to Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. It’s a mix that offers fresh flavors while being light enough for outdoor events. People can grab a small bowl or load up, as it works great for big groups. It’s always a hit at potlucks or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting
Sweet yet tangy Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting combine to make a balanced dessert. The cupcakes stand out visually and taste refreshing. Kids and adults will love grabbing these bite-sized options during the day. They’re perfect for adding something homemade to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting
Artichoke Pizza
Adding something unique, Artichoke Pizza is great for people wanting new flavors. It’s a twist compared to basic pizza styles and pairs easily with any other dishes served. Everyone loves grabbing slices, especially during long events. Make sure to serve extras, as it’s often a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza
Strawberry Pie
Fresh fruit baked into Strawberry Pie makes this dessert simple yet engaging for many guests. It’s easy to cut and share among a group without much prep or decoration. People often enjoy fruity desserts when filling their plates. Have it out for snacking.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pie
Crunchy Onion Rings
Fried sides like Crunchy Onion Rings always belong on the table during these big meals. They’re easy to munch on and pair great with cookout-style sauces or sliders. Onion rings create a flavorful bite without being over-the-top. Perfect for passing around while chatting with friends.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Fruit Pizza
Sliced layers make Fruit Pizza a good stop for those craving sweetness without heaviness. This choice looks fun and colorful sitting on the counter or table. Guests can grab slices during any point in the event. It’s a playful choice when deciding on themes!
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza
Honeycrisp Salad
Crisp and refreshing, Honeycrisp Salad offers lighter options at gatherings. A salad can be a crowd-pleaser since it offers greens and crunch without overshadowing the heavier foods. It’s the perfect balance for picnics or bigger group settings. Simple slices stand out through fun mix-ins.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups
Fun and colorful Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups bring energy into dessert options during the busy day! Kids enjoy digging in while adults can’t resist grabbing their own. These are great single-serve choices that highlight little bursts of creativity. They’re also easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups
BBQ Sauce
Adding homemade BBQ Sauce makes the meal standout because everyone loves those extra flavors added onto meats or veggies. Guests often appreciate sauces they don’t see every day, especially during holiday spreads. It’s simple but adds that touch to level up the whole menu. Families love debating which ones taste best!
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce
Biscoff Ice Cream
For something creamy and indulgent, Biscoff Ice Cream is a sweet way to cool off. The flavor has a comforting, familiar taste that feels unique enough to stand out. It works well as an add-on to other desserts or by itself. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to frozen treat.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream
Neapolitan Pizza
Simple yet vibrant Neapolitan Pizza might steal attention around traditional sauces or sliders. It balances lighter toppings with the hearty behaviors everyone enjoys with pizza or bread slices combining additions too bold for classics. Regular, timeless parts pop without interruptions making combo-food prep easier!
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza
Strawberry Dump Cake
Sweet, gooey, and incredibly easy to share, Strawberry Dump Cake makes dessert effortless. Its simple layers turn into a warm, comforting dessert perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Serve it up during gatherings, and it’ll quickly disappear. It’s a relaxed choice that gets the job done.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Dump Cake
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Add a bit of crunch with Red Cabbage Coleslaw, a side dish that’s far from boring. Its bright, fresh flavors make it an excellent companion to hearty mains. You can make it ahead of time, which makes serving it stress-free. Don’t be surprised when people want seconds of this side salad.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Veggie Sliders
Bite-sized and packed with flavor, Veggie Sliders are a handy option for your lineup. They’re easy to grab and perfect for mixing into any group gathering. A hearty choice that holds its own without needing too much extra. You’ll want these as a reliable option for feeding the gang.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders
Macaroni Salad
Everyone recognizes this as a gathering staple. Macaroni Salad is both a familiar and crowd-friendly addition to any spread. It’s got a creamy texture that’s versatile enough to go with almost anything. You can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining. Everyone needs a go-to like this one for get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Black Bean Sliders
Plant-based and flavorful, Black Bean Sliders offer an option for everyone at the table. They’re filling without being too heavy, making them a great addition to gatherings. Easy to serve and share, these sliders fit right in with all kinds of other choices. They make a versatile main or side.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Sliders
Mac and Cheese
Comfort food at its best, Mac and Cheese always hits the spot for crowds. It’s rich, creamy, and something everyone can agree on. Perfect for pairing with any type of dish or enjoying on its own. A classic that’s always worth putting on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Caprese Pesto Tarts
Bite-sized and easy to serve, Caprese Pesto Tarts are a fresh spin on a classic combination. The simple flavors come together in a way that feels balanced. Great for passing around during gatherings, they’re an easy crowd-pleaser. Perfect if you’re looking for something small but memorable.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts
Tzatziki
Sauces like this are versatile and can fit a lot of dishes. Tzatziki is refreshing and works as a dip or topping for plenty of options. It works as a dip or a topping, making it super versatile. Pair it with almost anything, and you’ll be glad you had it on hand. It’s one of those things that makes everything else taste better.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki
Pinwheel Sandwiches
Small, snackable, and easy to grab, Pinwheel Sandwiches are perfect for feeding a crowd. These simple sandwiches make mingling and eating at the same time effortless. The fun spiral design grabs your attention, while the taste keeps people coming back. Ideal for quick bites that look great too.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches
Waldorf Salad
Fresh, crisp textures make Waldorf Salad a great addition to the spread. It has an appealing mix of flavors and textures that balance out richer dishes. It’s a solid option for those wanting something light but still filling. A classic dish that fits into any mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Grilled Veggie Kebobs
Easy to share and packed with flavor, Grilled Veggie Kebobs are all about simplicity. These skewers bring together a variety of options in a fun, interactive way. They work well alongside other main dishes or can hold their own. Perfect for casual meals where everyone can join in.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs
Oreo Cheesecake
Sweet treats like this always draw attention on dessert tables. Oreo Cheesecake delivers rich and creamy flavors that are hard to resist. Every bite offers a little sweetness with that iconic cookie flavor mixed in. It’s hard to go wrong with something so universally loved. Perfect for serving at any size gathering.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Crisp with a touch of heat, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad brings bold flavors to your table. It’s refreshing but has just enough spice to keep things interesting. A great side dish that pairs well with many different meals. You’ll love how it breaks up heavier flavors on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Veggie Pizza
Veggie Pizza is loaded with fresh elements that make it satisfying without being too heavy. It’s great for mixing up more traditional pizza flavors. Perfect for sharing with others or enjoying as a solo treat. Always a solid pick for gatherings or meals on the go.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
Fun desserts always add something special to the table. Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats are colorful, simple to make, and easy to eat. Their colorful look adds a playful energy to the table, making them perfect for group celebrations. They’re lightweight and easy to eat on the move. A simple dessert everyone enjoys without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
Pico de Gallo
Bursting with fresh flavor, Pico de Gallo is a great add-on for just about any meal. It works as a topping, a dip, or a simple side that brings everything together. Keep it on the table for everyone to mix and match how they like. Perfect for casual meals where options are king.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Sweet, tart, and creamy all in one, Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars combine layers of flavor in each square. They’re easy to slice, serve, and enjoy, making them ideal for groups. Great for showcasing a mix of classic sweet flavors with a hint of citrus. Perfect to end your meal on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars
