Memorial Day plans usually mean sun, folding chairs, and someone asking what you brought. With 29 crowd-approved picks in your back pocket, you’re not just showing up—you’re showing off a little. Everything’s shareable, low-effort, and weirdly impressive. Let the food do the talking while you hang by the cooler.
Queso Dip
A warm and gooey snack that’s perfect for a long weekend. Queso Dip is ideal for sharing during relaxed gatherings with family or friends. Its creamy texture pairs well with almost anything crunchy. Whether you’re indulging yourself or setting it out for everyone, it’s bound to be a go-to.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip
Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Take the classic burger experience to a whole new level with Big Mac Sloppy Joe. It’s messy, bold, and packs that familiar fast-food flavor into a hearty, handheld meal. Perfect for a casual cookout or a backyard hangout. Everyone will be reaching for seconds before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Charcuterie Board
Bring variety to any get-together with Charcuterie Board. It’s not just food, it’s a fun snack station where everyone picks what they love. Whether it’s something tasty or sweet, this adds a fancy vibe to laid-back celebrations. The best part is how much personality you can pack onto it with different options.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board
Honeycrisp Salad
Light and refreshing for those looking for something healthy yet flavorful. Honeycrisp Salad adds crunch and sweetness to moments spent around the table. It’s a great way to balance a heavier menu with something fresh. This is a simple dish that fits effortlessly into any weekend feast.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
This party favorite, Smoky Bacon Pig Shots, is as creative as its name. Featuring a smoky element, these bites are easy to grab and big on flavor. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they’re made to impress when set out for friends and family gatherings. No complicated prep is required, so more time can be spent enjoying the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups
Fun and playful, Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups add a festive dessert option to the table. Designed to match the holiday theme, this sweet treat hits all the right notes. Great for kids and adults alike, it’s quick to prepare and brings a pop of color to your Memorial Day spread. Serve them and watch smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups
Loaded Potato Skins
A favorite at gatherings, Loaded Potato Skins deliver on both flavor and texture. These crispy bites work equally well as appetizers or main course additions. Their straightforward preparation makes them ideal for Memorial Day events where easy comfort food reigns supreme. Put them out, and they’ll definitely be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings
Packed with flavor, Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings bring restaurant-quality finger food to your backyard. These wings are great for casual Memorial Day celebrations where everyone’s mingling. Easy to eat while standing and chatting, they’ll keep guests coming back for more. Serve them with dipping sauces for an extra twist.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
Adding a festive touch, Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats don’t just taste great—they look the part too. These sweet snacks are perfect for a casual dessert table. No fuss or oven time required, they’re easy to whip up quickly. Their fun design is a bonus that makes them shine for Memorial Day gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
Italian Pasta with Salami
Mixing bold flavors into a simple dish, Italian Pasta with Salami works as a side or main meal idea. Perfect for potlucks, it holds up well in any setting and draws in anyone who loves hearty options. Its flavors complement Memorial Day grilling without overshadowing other dishes. Easy to serve, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Bite-sized and packed with boldness, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel is the snack you won’t want to miss this Memorial Day. With its punchy flavor, this finger food is easy to serve and eat during gatherings. Its simplicity makes preparation quick, but the impact it brings to the table is unforgettable. Perfect while mingling and chatting.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Patriotic Gumdrops
Patriotic Gumdrops are festive little candies perfect for themed parties. Their bright colors catch the eye and add fun to dessert spreads. Easy to grab and munch on without plates or utensils required. These simple treats bring a splash of fun to any Memorial Day table.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Gumdrops
Macaroni Salad
Simple yet a staple for casual outdoor meals, Macaroni Salad brings creamy texture and is great for sharing in group settings. It’s a classic, cold side dish that fits effortlessly with other options. This one is always a hit when you need something quick yet filling. Definitely good for potlucks and BBQs.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
Loaded with flavor, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls offer something special for cheese lovers on this festive weekend. Easy to grab and rich in taste, this snack fits perfectly into group settings. You can place them anywhere on the table for easy accessibility. These are bound to become conversation starters that disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
Homemade Buckeyes
If you want tradition mixed with sweetness, Homemade Buckeyes are always a win for casual holiday gatherings. These bite-sized treats are easy to handle and offer a quick dessert option to complement bigger items being served. No utensils, no mess—just pop and enjoy. Includes just enough richness without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes
Grilled Veggie Kebobs
For a lighter grilling option, Grilled Veggie Kebobs balance the heavier dishes often found at weekend barbecues. They’re easy to serve, easy to eat, and bring a bit of variety to the spread. A great option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a break from meat-heavy plates. Simple preparation with big eating results.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs
Salmon Caesar Salad
A seafood twist to a classic, Salmon Caesar Salad blends fresh flavors with a subtle richness for Memorial Day meal spreads. It works well as a standalone dish or paired with others, offering something unique for the gathering. Easy yet sophisticated enough to make anyone stop and grab a plate. Perfect for a mixed group of guests.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Everyone loves this dessert staple; Chocolate Chip Cookies are unbeatable for laid-back holiday gatherings. Easy to bake ahead or serve fresh, they complement every meal and mood. Perfect for dessert tables or just passed around after meals. Memorial Day wouldn’t feel complete without batches of these crowd pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies
Turkey Sliders
Small but filling, Turkey Sliders are ideal for casual Memorial Day meetups. They’re easy to serve and great for groups, especially for guests who want hand-held options without committing to big portions. Light but pleasing enough to hold their place in gatherings. These little burgers bring balance to any food station.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders
7 Layer Dip
Layers of flavors come together in 7 Layer Dip, a party favorite for any gathering. Great with chips or veggies, it’s easy to set out and let guests serve themselves. Minimal prep with maximum crowd satisfaction, making it perfect for long weekend celebrations. You’ll probably want to make extra because it’ll go fast.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip
Brats in a Blanket
Combining comfort foods together, Brats in a Blanket are ideal handheld snacks for informal Memorial Day events. No forks or plates needed, just grab and eat—making them simple for host and guests alike. A classic dish suitable for any mix of guests. Add them to your table and watch them disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket
Antipasto Salad
Packed with variety and great for sharing, Antipasto Salad brings flavors together in a single dish perfect for a potluck spread. With textures that mix well, it’s a light option that complements heavier dishes served during gatherings. Easy for guests to grab and enjoy while standing or mingling. Works for large or small events.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Fruit Pizza
Sweet and refreshing, Fruit Pizza is a simple dessert that brings a splash of color and fun to Memorial Day. Light enough to enjoy after heavy plates, it also looks exciting on the table. Great for sharing amongst mixed-age groups, as it appeals to both kids and adults. Place it out, and you’ve got dessert covered effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza
Mac and Cheese
Comfort food at its best, Mac and Cheese is a dish perfect for group meals during the holiday weekend. Creamy and filling, it works as a side or standalone dish for barbecue gatherings. Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s simple to prepare and serve without getting fancy. Always popular, you’ll never go wrong adding this in.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting
A light but flavorful dessert, Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting adds brightness to the mix. Perfect for serving something unique and sweet and simple. They look great lined up on the dessert table and taste even better. A good choice for adding variety to your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Crisp and refreshing, Red Cabbage Coleslaw brings a lighter option for heavy plates. It’s a good way to add something fresh to any holiday gathering without much work. Great for balancing out richer sides and mains. Everyone loves having this option alongside grilled or BBQ dishes.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Tomahawk Steak
When you want something impressive for grilling, Tomahawk Steak really stands out. It’s a hearty, flavorful option for the grill master to serve up during the weekend. Perfect for guests who love big cuts and bold flavors. This steak adds a special element to any holiday meal together.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak
Waldorf Salad
A mix of sweet and tasty that brings freshness to the table, Waldorf Salad is a great side dish for relaxed meals. Perfect for guests who enjoy lighter flavors alongside heavier foods. It blends different textures without feeling too busy. Great choice for keeping your meal options broad.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Cheeseburger
A backyard classic that never fails, Cheeseburger fits perfectly at Memorial Day hangouts. Great for making in bigger batches and offering people something familiar. It’s hearty, handheld, and works well with other BBQ favorites. Everyone enjoys this staple when the grill is fired up.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger
