I Count On These 29 Memorial Day Dishes When I’m Hosting A Crowd

When a full house shows up hungry, keeping things under control is half the battle. That’s why those 29 Memorial Day dishes always earn a spot on the table. They feed everyone, disappear fast, and don’t leave you juggling ten things at once. Hosting becomes way less chaotic with them around.

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy Avocado Sauce

Avocado sauce in a bowl with it's ingredients surrounding it.
Creamy Avocado Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine a sauce so versatile, you’ll want to put it on everything from tacos to grilled meats. It’s smooth, it’s rich, and oh, does it bring a vibrant green splash to your table. Plus, Creamy Avocado Sauce comes together in a snap. You’ll find it becomes a must-have for every gathering, adding that special touch everyone talks about.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, you just need to bring a bit of that seaside charm to your backyard barbeque. This dish is simplicity at its finest, letting the flavors of fresh, succulent lobster shine. Lobster Roll combines tender lobster meat with a light dressing, all tucked into a soft, buttery bun.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Close-up of Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies filled with white chocolate chips and raspberries, topped with fresh raspberries and white chocolate chunks.
Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Got a sweet tooth in the crowd? There’s nothing like finishing a meal with a bang, and these bars are here to do just that. Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies strike that perfect balance of tart and sweet. They’re the talk of the dessert table, with just the right amount of fruity zing and creamy white chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Forget everything you think you know about sides, because these are about to steal the show. Golden, crispy, with that perfect crunch, they’re a universal crowd-pleaser. Crunchy Onion Rings promise to be the hit of the party. Pair them with anything or enjoy on their own — either way, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ sauce in a jar with two spoons by the side.
BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No grill feast is complete without that distinct, mouthwatering sauce that coats your favorite meats perfectly. This one’s a game changer, striking that ideal balance between sweet, tangy, and smoky. BBQ Sauce turns anything it touches into a masterpiece. Watch as it disappears, with guests asking for your secret recipe.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Now, if you’ve got a barbecue on the agenda, you’ll need something cool and crisp to balance out all those smoky flavors. It’s colorful, it’s crunchy, and it’s dressed just right, not too heavy, not too light. Red Cabbage Coleslaw is your go-to. You’ll see it disappear as fast as it hits the table, because who doesn’t love a good coleslaw?
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When guests hover in the kitchen, wondering where the goodness is, hit them with this. A dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, layer by layer of deliciousness that builds anticipation. With 7 Layer Dip, you’re not just serving a dip; you’re offering an adventure on a chip.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those who like a little kick with their appetizers, this dish is a surefire winner. It wraps all the flavors of your favorite poppers into a bite-sized, spiraled delight. With Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel, you get creamy, cheesy, and spicy in every bite. They’re irresistible and will be snatched up before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

On a table filled with heavier dishes, something fresh but flavorful becomes an absolute must-have. It’s a vibrant, hearty mix of meat, cheese, and veggies, offering something for everyone. Antipasto Salad is that dish — a little bit of Italy right on your picnic table. Guests will love diving into this colorful, texture-rich salad.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Turkey Sliders

Close-up of a seasoned bagel sandwich with melted cheese and turkey slider filling, topped with seeds.
Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mini sandwiches are always a hit, and when they’re packed with flavor, even better. These sliders are juicy, tasty, and the perfect size for grabbing between games or conversation. Turkey Sliders make feeding a crowd easy and delicious. Watch these disappear as everyone comes back for seconds, or maybe thirds.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says you need a grill to achieve fall-off-the-bone ribs? This dish proves the oven is just as capable of producing tender, flavorful ribs that will have everyone talking. Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe is your secret weapon for a no-fuss crowd pleaser. Just be prepared for it to become an annual request..
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Queso Dip

Close-up of creamy cheese dip being poured over chopped tomato salsa with diced onions and cilantro.
Queso Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something about a warm, gooey cheese dip that brings people together. It’s perfect for dipping, scooping, and generally just making everyone happy. With Queso Dip, you’re setting the stage for an unforgettable dipping experience. Get those tortilla chips ready; you’re going to need a lot of them.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background.
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a little tropical flair to your table with a dish that’s as juicy as it is flavorful. The sweet and tasty combination here promises to transport your palate. Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders are a mini getaway in every bite. They’re a surefire way to add something special to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, a classic is what you need to round out the meal. Crunchy, sweet, and tangy, it’s a refreshing side that offers a counterpoint to richer dishes. Waldorf Salad brings a taste of New York tradition right to your backyard. It’s the dish that keeps everyone coming back for just one more spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Picture a pasta dish that’s a step above your usual mac and cheese. This one boasts bold flavors and hearty ingredients that come together in a memorable way. Italian Pasta with Salami is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed. It serves up the comforts of pasta with the added delight of tasty salami, making it a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something a little lighter but still full of flavor, you can’t go wrong with these. They’re colorful, they’re healthy, and they grill up beautifully. Grilled Veggie Kebobs are the answer to balancing out the menu. Plus, they offer something delicious for those who might prefer a plant-based option.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A staple at any gathering, these are far more than just a kid’s snack. They’re bite-sized, tasty, and completely addictive. Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate finger food. Don’t be surprised when these disappear first — it’s simply impossible to have just one.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When the weather heats up, nothing ends the meal quite like a slice of cool, creamy ice cream cake. It’s a dessert that knows how to make an entrance and leave a lasting impression. Ice Cream Cake is the grand finale of your meal, combining cake and ice cream in perfect harmony.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If there’s one dip that stands out from the crowd, it’s this one. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s packed with flavor. Spinach Artichoke Dip is the kind of starter that makes guests pause in conversation just to enjoy. Serve it warm, and watch the crowd gather.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Mango Ice Cream

A bowl of creamy mango ice cream is garnished with fresh mango cubes and mint leaves.
Mango Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a tropical twist on a classic dessert, you can’t beat this option. It’s fresh, it’s fruity, and it’s homemade, bringing a little exotic flair to your menu. Mango Ice Cream is a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures. It’s a refreshing route to take for dessert, and a definite crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mango Ice Cream

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want to make a statement with your main course, this is the way to go. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s bound to be the centerpiece of your barbeque. Tomahawk Steak is as impressive to look at as it is to eat. It’s a showstopper, guaranteed to leave your guests in awe.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A dessert with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, a layer of red gelatin, topped with a whipped cream dollop and a strawberry slice, on a white plate with a spoon.
Strawberry Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This isn’t your ordinary salad; it’s a sweet and salty treat masquerading as one. Combining crunchy pretzels, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries, it’s a beloved classic. Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a dessert that plays the role of a salad, charming everyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love pizza, especially when it’s bite-sized and bursting with flavor? These make a great appetizer or snack, rolling all your favorite toppings into one bite. Pizza Pinwheels are as fun to make as they are to eat. They’ll be circling the party, so grab one before they’re gone.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a twist on the classic cheesecake, this dish incorporates everyone’s favorite cookie in the most amusing way. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it has that unmistakable Oreo crunch. Oreo Cheesecake is a match made in dessert heaven. Prepare for it to be the star attraction on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you combine bacon, jalapeño, and cheese, you get something extraordinary. These cheese balls are the ultimate trifecta of flavors, making them a hit at any gathering. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are not just appetizers; they’re the life of the party. Once you pop one, you won’t be able to stop.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These cupcakes bring the perfect blend of tart and sweet to your dessert lineup. They’re light, they’re refreshing, and they’re dressed with a vibrant raspberry frosting. Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting are like a bite of sunshine, no matter when you serve them.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Close-up of a blue corn chip dipped in a creamy cheese and vegetable mixture, garnished with cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s an appetizer that’s inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s got that kick of spice that keeps you coming back for more. Mexican Street Corn Dip is a crowd favorite, bringing a bit of international flair to your meal. Pair it with chips for the ultimate dipping experience.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, where fresh, bright fruits sit atop a sweet crust. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece. Fruit Pizza is a refreshing change from traditional sweets, offering a bounty of flavors and colors. It’s a creative way to enjoy your fruit, and it always gets rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These little bites are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and smoky. Wrapping anything in bacon is a good idea, but these smokies take the cake. Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a surefire hit, disappearing as quickly as you can make them. They’re small in size but big on flavor, making them a must for your menu.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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