53 Memorial Day Recipes Beyond Hot Dogs and Watermelon for 2023

These memorial day recipes go beyond burgers on the grill, potato salad and desserts. So many delicious food ideas for your memorial day cookout.

Memorial Day Cookout Recipes

Memorial Day Appetizers

1. Boat Dip

Tiktok boat dip viral recipe is the perfect summer poolside taco dip appetizer, ready in 5 minutes. This Mexican flavor fiesta taco dip recipe has 4 ingredients plus chips for dipping.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

12 servings

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2. Buffalo Chicken Dip Egg Rolls

This buffalo chicken dip egg roll recipe is the combination of all the buffalo chicken dip ingredients, wrapped in an egg roll wrapper and fried to a crips.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 50 minutes mins

50 egg rolls

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3. Knorr Spinach Dip

A packet of Knorr vegetable recipe mix combined with sour cream, mayonnaise, minced fresh water chestnuts, chopped spinach and chopped scallions to make one of my favorite spinach dips ever!

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

32 servings

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4. Chipped Beef Dip Recipe

Chipped beef dip is one of our favorite hot dips to serve for for game day, as an appetizer or to take to a potluck. Warm chipped beef dip is a classic appetizer that everyone loves.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 35 minutes mins

10 servings

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5. Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe

These bite sized sausage balls are a classic holiday appetizer that often make an appearance as a football food in my house.  This recipe for bisquick sausage cheese balls have 3 ingredients and the first batch is ready to serve in 30 minutes.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 25 minutes mins

30

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6. Blueberry Salsa

This fresh fruit blender blueberry salsa recipe features fresh, plump blueberries paired with ripe summer strawberries, a hint of lime and a kick of jalapeño in this fresh blueberry salsa recipe.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 5 minutes mins

2 cups

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7. Hormel Chili Cheese Dip Recipe

Hormel chili cheese dip is the perfect appetizer to serve for the big game and is ready to serve in 15 minutes.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 20 minutes mins

8 servings

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8. Frozen Meatball Appetizer Recipes

These easy meatball appetizer recipes will make for quick weeknight dinners. These meatball recipes use frozen meatballs.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

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9. Rotel Dip

This quick and easy Rotel sausage cream cheese dip is a crowd pleaser and has the perfect balance of heat, meat and spice.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

15 servings

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10. Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

This recipe for cream cheese sausage balls are a tender and delicious appetizer, perfect for holiday parties or game day snacking.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 35 minutes mins

48

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11. Black Bean Corn Mango Salsa

Here is an easy black bean salsa recipe that can be made year round. Make this black bean salsa recipe ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a healthy snack through out the day.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 10 minutes mins

4 cups

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12. Bang Bang Shrimp Copycat recipe

I have found this to be the best bang bang shrimp recipe. Tempura battered shrimp, sweet and spicy chili sauce, also known as bang bang sauce, this easy appetizer is a crowdpleaser. Follow the video instructions for this easy bang bang shrimp recipe.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 25 minutes mins

6 servings

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13. Chipped Beef Cheese Ball

Chipped beef cheese ball is always a favorite appetizer at the holiday parties. This recipe is great for a crowd or can be divided into smaller portions for individual cheese balls. 

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

2 ½ cups

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14. Easy Mexican Corn Dip Recipe

Mexican corn dip is a family favorite and usually disappears faster than it should. My easy Mexican corn dip recipe features Mexicorn, roasted green chilies as well as shredded cheese. I serve my Mexican corn dip with Fritos but any scoop-able chip will work. Now you know how to make Mexican corn dip! 

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

5 cups

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Side Dishes: Pasta Salads & Summer Salads

15. Orange Fluff Salad Recipe

Orange fluff salad with mandarin oranges, whipped topping, orange gelatin powder, cottage cheese, and mini marshmallows, is a dessert-like jello salad side dish.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 5 minutes mins

8 servings

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16. Amish Broccoli Salad

Traditional Amish broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe is a great way to enjoy chopped fresh broccoli florets and cauliflower florets at the peak of their freshness and flavors.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 20 minutes mins

9 Cups

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17. Pea Salad

Packed with peas, onion, cheddar cheese, and dill, along with a creamy dressing, this cold pea salad recipe will be your new favorite summer salad!

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 15 minutes mins

8 servings

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18. Baby Potatoes Recipes

These baby potatoes recipes are the simple side dish needed to make weeknight dinners complete. Grab a bag of baby potatoes, and a few simple ingredients like fresh herbs, minced garlic, and oil, and you are set to make a classic side dish to go along with your Sunday pot roasts and roast chicken.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

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19. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe

A wonderful balance of brine, crunch, salt and creaminess this pasta salad is make with a simple homemade dill ranch dressing that is also perfect as a dip for fresh vegetables. 

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 24 minutes mins

8

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20. Cucumber Onion Salad

This cucumber onion salad features crisp English cucumbers, fresh dill & thinly sliced red onion tossed with a sweet & tangy vinegar dressing.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 4 minutes mins

8 servings

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21. Ham & Pineapple Pasta Salad

Hawaiian pasta salad is the perfect ham and pineapple pasta salad recipe for using up leftover ham.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 20 minutes mins

8

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Recipes for the smoker

22. Smoked Shotgun Shells

Use uncooked manicotti noodle shells and stuff them with a mixture of ground beef, spicy ground sausage, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese then wrapped them in bacon.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 8 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

14 Shells

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23. Smoked Pineapple

Smoked pineapple is the easiest side dish or dessert to make on your smoker that will impress your friends and excite your tastebuds.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

4 servings

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24. Easy Smoked Brisket

Smoking a whole beef brisket can be intimidating the first time you try but with these tips and tricks of the trade you will always end up with a perfect brisket.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 21 hours hrs

8 people

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25. Smoked Corned Beef

The slow-smoked brisket starts with a store-bought corned beef brisket and ends with you making the best smoked corned beef recipe.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 13 hours hrs

12 servings

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TEXAS STYLE SMOKED BRISKET

With a simple rub made from a combination of spices, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be adapted to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer your brisket sliced thick or thin, this recipe can be tailored to your preferences. It also pairs well with a variety of sides, from classic barbecue staples like coleslaw and baked beans to more unique options like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Smoked Mac and Cheese

This culinary gem expertly combines the creamy comfort of traditional mac and cheese with the enticing allure of smoky flavors, leaving a lasting impression that will tantalize your senses. Get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible dish and embark on a flavor adventure like no other.

Patti LaBelle’s Potato Salad

This recipe promises to take your taste buds on a delicious journey with its blend of classic ingredients and a few secret touches. LaBelle's potato salad boasts creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, crunchy celery, and dill pickles, all mixed with perfectly boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs. And, for a twist, LaBelle also adds a touch of sweet pickle relish, which balances the flavors to perfection.

Hickory Smoked Potato Salad

The hickory smoke adds depth and complexity to the dish, elevating the flavor profile beyond the traditional potato salad. The creamy dressing balances the smokiness of the potatoes and provides a burst of flavor with each bite. The addition of celery, red onion, and bacon bits not only provides texture but also complements the overall taste of the dish.

Southern Style Potato Salad

This recipe features a unique blend of seasonings and ingredients that will take your taste buds on a flavorful journey. The potatoes are boiled to perfection and then mixed with a creamy combination of mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. Add in crunchy celery, onions, and pickles, and you've got yourself a winning dish.

Memorial Day Recipes For The Grill

Grilled Chicken Satay Skewers (with Peanut Sauce)

Tender chunks of marinated chicken are threaded onto skewers and cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious blend of smoky charred exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. The marination process infuses the chicken with a medley of aromatic spices, such as lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your cook out guests asking for more.

Grilled Corn In Husk

Grilling corn in the husk helps to retain moisture and intensify the natural flavors of the corn. The husk acts as a protective barrier, preventing the corn from drying out and allowing it to steam, resulting in tender and juicy kernels. The husks can be pulled back to reveal the beautifully cooked corn, making it visually appealing for serving at barbecues, picnics, or gatherings.

GRILLED SHRIMP

The recipe includes a marinade that adds flavors like garlic, lemon, and herbs, which will enhance the taste of the shrimp. Enjoy these shrimp can be an appetizer, added to salads or pasta dishes, used in tacos or wraps, or served as a main course with sides like rice or grilled vegetables on your memorial day menu.

The Best Grilled Vegetables

These grilled vegetables can be served as a main course for vegetarians or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that it so delicious!

Maple Dijon Grilled Chicken

To make the marinade, you'll need maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. While grilling, you can brush the chicken with any remaining marinade for extra flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Roasted Garlic & Black Pepper Grilled Pork Kabobs

The first bite is nothing short of a revelation—tender, succulent pork mingling with the robust flavors of roasted garlic and black pepper. The slight sweetness from the honey and the crunch of the grilled vegetables create a symphony of tastes and textures that delight our palates.

Turkey Burgers Recipe

Be sure to use ground turkey with a higher fat content to ensure a moist and flavorful burger. Don't forget to include the breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to enhance the flavor of the burger and grill the patties for optimal taste and texture.

Burger with Grilled Peaches, Brie and Cherry Jam

Brie cheese and cherry jam are added as toppings, creating a sweet and savory combination. A flavorful combination of savory and sweet ingredients that create a unique and delicious burger.

Drinks and Desserts

26. Frozen Lemonade

This easy frozen lemonade has an extra kick of vodka to make boozy lemonade your next favorite summer sipping treat.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

4

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27. Rum Punch Bacardi Recipe (with Watermelon)

Ready in 5 minutes, this easy Watermelon rum punch is delicious any time of the year but especially on a hot day, it is very refreshing.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 5 minutes mins

4 Drinks

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28. Jungle Juice Recipe

Easy jungle juice is a punch recipe with vodka, rum, fruit juices, and other ingredients such as lemonade to make a budget party drink cocktail for a crowd.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 5 minutes mins

12 servings

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29. To Go Margarita Cocktails For A Crowd

To go margaritas are perfect for when you are serving a large crowd or need to take a batch of cocktails to a party. Pre-mixed margarita is ready to be poured over ice.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 5 minutes mins

8 servings

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30. Red White & Blue Mixed Drinks

The best red white and blue mixed drinks and patriotic cocktails are served on the 4th of July and Memorial Day. Here are easy patriotic holiday drinks to serve at the neighborhood fourth of July celebration and other summer celebrations.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

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31. Strawberry Rhubarb Margarita

This strawberry rhubarb margarita recipe includes homemade rhubarb syrup, fresh squeezed lime juice, tequila, grand marnier and crushed strawberries. I serve this margarita on the rocks and include the strawberry rhubarb margarita pitcher recipe.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 3 minutes mins

1 cocktail

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32. Heaven On Earth Cake (Strawberry)

Heaven on earth cake, with strawberries, is an easy no-bake dessert made with angel food cake, strawberry pie filling, vanilla pudding and whipped topping.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

12 Servings

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33. Blueberry Pie Recipe

This is the best blueberry pie because of it is a two crust lattice topped pie and has a brightness of flavor that only fresh lemon zest can bring. 

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

1 pie

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34. Blueberry Delight Recipe

“Blueberry YumYum”, “Blueberry Dream” or even “Blueberry Bliss”.  What ever you call it, you will be wanting to share this layered dessert recipe with all your friends.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 2 hours hrs 18 minutes mins

16

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35. Fruity Pebbles Treat Bars

Perfect for your rainbow party or your bake sale fundraiser, these no-bake treats have 4 simple ingredients and are ready in under 30 minutes.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 22 minutes mins

12

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36. Peanut Butter Pie No Bake

No-bake Peanut butter pie is perfect for those hot summer days when you don't want to turn on the oven but want a dessert without the work.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

6 servings

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37. Golden Graham s'Mores

Golden graham s'mores bars are an easy no bake treat to make when you want a s'more but don't want to turn on the oven or roast a marshmallow.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

12

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38. Scotcheroos Recipe

One of my favorite no-bake treats is this scotcheroos recipe. Ready in less than 30 minutes they are addictively delicious and a definite crowd pleaser. Perfect for freezing and cookie exchanges.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 30 minutes mins

24 bars

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39. Lemonade Popsicles

This lemonade popsicle recipes make the most refreshing summer frozen treat that kids and adults love. 3 ingredients will make lemonade freeze pops that will bring all the kids to the yard.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 8 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

12

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40. Lemon Peppermint Stick

Lemon peppermint stick also known as Baltimore lemon stick or FlowerMart lemon peppermint stick. Lemon peppermint stick is a Baltimore tradition that a must for summer fairs, fundraisers, backyard and block parties.

Recipe by:Sarah Mock

Total Time 3 minutes mins

1

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Memorial Day Recipes

Sarah Mock

These memorial day recipes go beyond burgers on the grill, potato salad and desserts. So many delicious food ideas for your memorial day cookout.

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Per Serving

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

• ▢ Boat Dip
• ▢ Buffalo Chicken Dip Egg Rolls
• ▢ Knorr Spinach Dip
• ▢ Chipped Beef Dip Recipe
• ▢ Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe
• ▢ Blueberry Salsa
• ▢ Hormel Chili Cheese Dip Recipe
• ▢ Frozen Meatball Appetizer Recipes
• ▢ Rotel Dip
• ▢ Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
• ▢ Black Bean Corn Mango Salsa
• ▢ Bang Bang Shrimp Copycat recipe
• ▢ Chipped Beef Cheese Ball
• ▢ Easy Mexican Corn Dip Recipe
• ▢ Orange Fluff Salad Recipe
• ▢ Amish Broccoli Salad
• ▢ Pea Salad
• ▢ Baby Potatoes Recipes
• ▢ Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe
• ▢ Cucumber Onion Salad
• ▢ Ham & Pineapple Pasta Salad
• ▢ Smoked Shotgun Shells
• ▢ Smoked Pineapple
• ▢ Easy Smoked Brisket
• ▢ Smoked Corned Beef

Instructions

 

• Choose your favorite recipe
• Gather the ingrdients
• Make the recipe according to the recipe instructions

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Nutritional facts are estimates and are provided as a courtesy to the reader. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates. Nutritional values are calculated via a third party. Changing ingredients, amounts or cooking technique will alter the estimated nutritional calculations.

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👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock

CEO/Owner/Founder/Culinary Blogger

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 14 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.