Little Bit Recipes
menu icon
subscribe
search icon
×

40 Memorial Day Recipes That Say I Brought the Fun and the Food

By · · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

Showing up with the right food is the easiest way to claim the party crown. These Memorial Day recipes do more than fill plates—they spark conversations and bring people together. Nobody wants to be stuck with boring dishes or complicated steps that slow down the fun. The goal here is simple: impress without the stress and keep everyone coming back for more. If you want to be known as the person who brought both the fun and the food, these recipes have you covered.

A grilled chicken skewer on a white plate with barbecue sauce and fresh parsley, beside a plate of more chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Want to save this post?

Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

Red White and Blue Salad

A bowl of creamy fruit salad with fresh strawberries and blueberries. A gold spoon and a small bowl of blueberries are on the side, along with a red and white checkered napkin.
Red White and Blue Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Red White and Blue Salad adds a festive splash of color and simple flavors that stick around through the day. Perfect for Memorial Day recipes, it looks great on any table and stays fresh, so you don’t have to fuss with reheating or extra prep outdoors. It’s a breeze to serve anywhere.
Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Salad

Mango Salsa

A bowl of fresh mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, served with tortilla chips.
Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mango Salsa keeps things light with a sweet, fresh punch that fits right in with Memorial Day recipes. It stays firm and fresh even hours after packing, making it a natural choice to brighten any picnic spread without adding heaviness. Easy to bring and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salsa

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

A bowl of shrimp pasta salad garnished with lemon slices and diced vegetables.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Macaroni Salad brings enough substance to be a meal but doesn’t ask for reheating or extra fuss. It’s a strong contender for Memorial Day recipes thanks to its ability to chill well and keep flavors bold, fitting perfectly in a cooler-ready picnic lineup.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Three glasses filled with marshmallow fruit salad and topped with red cherries on a light pink cloth, accompanied by two spoons.
Marshmallow Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Marshmallow Fruit Salad mixes fruit with marshmallows for a fun, soft texture that stays stable on the go. It’s a handy choice for Memorial Day recipes because it holds up in a cooler and brings a bit of sweetness that works well alongside grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Slaw Salad keeps its crunch and fresh flavor even after hours chilled, which is why it’s a natural choice for Memorial Day recipes. It pairs well with anything on the grill and doesn’t get soggy like some leafy salads tend to do when packed for picnics.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Cream Cheese Danish

A cream cheese danish topped with strawberries and blueberries drizzled with icing is on a white plate. A red checkered cloth, a bowl of strawberries, and a small bowl of blueberries are nearby.
Cream Cheese Danish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cream Cheese Danish offers a flaky, creamy treat that holds its shape and doesn’t get messy on the move. It’s a clever option for Memorial Day recipes when you want something a bit special that’s still fuss-free to pack and enjoy with a hot coffee or fresh fruit.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Danish

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers slide into containers neatly and stay intact for easy outdoor eating. These skewers suit Memorial Day recipes because they’re portable protein that doesn’t require heating, making picnic servings quick and mess-free for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Grilled chicken thigh on a white plate with green beans and a side of barbecue sauce, garnished with chopped herbs on a wooden table.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs stay juicy and flavorful after chilling, making them a solid choice for Memorial Day recipes. Slice them for sandwiches or wraps without worry — they hold up well and add a hearty punch to your outdoor meal spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

A person dips a crispy pasta chip into a bowl of marinara, with more chips visible in the background.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Pasta Chips keep their crunch without needing to be cold, so they’re perfect for snacking anywhere. They make Memorial Day recipes more fun by adding a crunchy, travel-friendly option that’s easy to portion and share during your outdoor festivities.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Turkey Roll Ups

A close-up of a hand holding a turkey roll-up slice.
Turkey Roll Ups. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Turkey Roll Ups pack protein in bite-sized form that’s easy to grab and even easier to enjoy without heat. This one works perfectly for Memorial Day recipes since you can prep it early and still have fresh, neat bites ready when hunger strikes. Great for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.
Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing keeps the fruit fresh and firm, while the dressing can wait until just before serving. It’s a smart choice for Memorial Day recipes because it stays bright and doesn’t get soggy, adding a cool, fresh note without the hassle of last-minute prep.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Apple Pie Cookies

Freshly baked apple pie cookies topped with caramelized fruit on a cooling rack, with a cup and a cloth nearby on a light colored surface.
Apple Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Apple Pie Cookies stack, store, and travel without crumbling, making them a reliable dessert for Memorial Day recipes. They taste great at room temperature, offering a simple sweet finish that’s easy to share or keep for yourself after a long day outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cookies

Seafood Pasta Salad

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Seafood Pasta Salad balances seafood and pasta in a way that stays fresh and filling without reheating. It earns a spot on any Memorial Day recipes list by holding its own in a cooler and pairing well with typical picnic foods for a more substantial bite.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans with cherry tomato halves and crumbled feta, served with a fork on a white tablecloth.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green Bean Tomato Salad keeps its color and crispness through hours of transport, making it a top pick for Memorial Day recipes. Chill it up, pack it tight, and serve it straight from the container for a fuss-free side that pairs beautifully with grilled mains.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Red Skin Potato Salad

Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background.
Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Red Skin Potato Salad stays firm and fresh, making it a dependable companion for Memorial Day recipes. It actually tastes better after chilling, so it’s ready to impress after a few hours in the cooler. Classic, filling, and ready to hang with all your outdoor favorites.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins

A hand holding a partially eaten, brown muffin with a moist crumbly texture.
Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins balance creamy and spicy notes with a sturdy texture that travels like a champ. This snack is a smart addition to Memorial Day recipes because it doesn’t mind hanging out at room temp and shares well during any picnic pause.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Biscoff Cream Cheese Muffins

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand holding a tortilla chip dipped in creamy Buffalo chicken dip, garnished with slices of green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Dip carries a punch without needing to be hot, which makes it a cool fit for Memorial Day recipes. Prepare it the night before, toss it in the cooler, and watch it disappear at your next outdoor hangout. It’s perfect for sharing, no matter the setting.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

A plate of broccoli salad with bits of bacon, served on a white oval dish alongside a wooden spoon.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Broccoli Salad with Bacon brings crunch and creaminess that hold steady without needing constant refrigeration. It’s a handy addition to Memorial Day recipes since it travels well and works as a tasty side that stands up to the outdoor heat and lively company.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Easy Radish Salad

A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers.
Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Radish Salad delivers a fresh crunch that stays lively even after a few hours on the road. It’s a solid pick for Memorial Day recipes because it travels well and adds a bright contrast to classic picnic plates. Plus, its cool crispness keeps things light and lively all day long.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A grilled chicken skewer on a white plate with barbecue sauce and fresh parsley, beside a plate of more chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer hold their shape and flavor whether served warm or cold, fitting right in with Memorial Day recipes. Easy to customize and easy to eat, they’re a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t add any cleanup hassle to your outdoor plans.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Cast Iron Skillet Burgers

Two cheeseburgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheddar cheese are served with crinkle-cut fries, fresh lettuce, and tomato in the background. Ketchup and mustard are on the side.
Cast Iron Skillet Burgers. Photo credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.

Cast Iron Skillet Burgers deliver juicy, thick patties with a perfect sear—just what you need for your Memorial Day recipes lineup. Serve these up and watch the grillmasters bow down. They fit right in at backyard parties and weekend cookouts alike.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Skillet Burgers

Southern Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Crust

A bowl of berry cobbler topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, with another bowl of cobbler in the background.
Southern Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Crust. Photo credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.

Southern Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Crust brings rustic charm and a hit of sweetness that fits perfectly with Memorial Day recipes. This skillet beauty is great for ending the day on a high note. It turns any gathering into a casual southern affair.
Get the Recipe: Southern Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Crust

Rub for St. Louis Ribs

A paper plate with a serving of barbecue ribs, corn on the cob, and cooked cabbage.
Rub for St. Louis Ribs. Photo credit: Chef Denise.

Rub for St. Louis Ribs guarantees tender, flavorful ribs without the grill or smoker fuss, making it a smart choice for Memorial Day recipes. Oven-baked and fall-off-the-bone tender, this rub lets ribs steal the show with ease. Your guests will ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Rub for St. Louis Ribs

Macaroni Salad

A bowl of macaroni salad with elbow pasta, diced celery, red bell peppers, and carrots mixed in a creamy dressing.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Strength and Sunshine.

Macaroni Salad brings creamy comfort with every bite, perfect for Memorial Day recipes when you want easy, crowd-pleasing sides. This pasta favorite holds its own next to any grilled main. It’s a no-fuss classic that’s great for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Grilled Flank Steak

Sliced grilled steak, roasted potatoes, and grilled corn on the cob arranged on a tray, garnished with herbs.
Grilled Flank Steak. Photo credit: GypsyPlate.

Grilled Flank Steak packs flavor and juicy goodness, earning a spot on your Memorial Day recipes must-try list. Its marinade punches up the meat before the grill seals the deal. Serve it sliced alongside your favorite summer sides for a winner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak

Amish Macaroni Salad

A bowl of macaroni salad with diced vegetables and a sprinkling of paprika, served on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Homemade In The Kitchen.

Amish Macaroni Salad layers sweet and tangy flavors that make it a stand-out pick for Memorial Day recipes. This creamy, smoky mix goes beyond the usual and makes potluck rounds like a champ. It’s a simple side with serious personality.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad

A glass bowl filled with fruit salad made of strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows in a creamy dressing, surrounded by whole strawberries and a star-patterned napkin.
Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad scores big for Memorial Day recipes with its fresh berries and creamy cheesecake mix. It’s a no-bake winner that keeps things cool while packing a festive punch. Perfect for patriotic gatherings, it’s a sweet crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Red White and Blue Cheesecake Salad

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

A plate filled with bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers stuffed with cheese, with fresh jalapeños visible in the background.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Celebrating Simply.

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers bring smoky heat and cheesy richness to your Memorial Day recipes. They work great as snacks or party starters. These poppers add a little fire without too much fuss at your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Fruit Salad

A bowl filled with assorted fresh fruits including strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes, kiwi, raspberries, watermelon, and mango chunks.
Fruit Salad. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

Fruit Salad refreshes with juicy chunks and a light orange dressing, making it a crisp choice for Memorial Day recipes. Ready in a flash, it keeps things simple and fresh at your picnic or BBQ. This easy side helps cool down hot summer days.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Salad

Giant Peanut Butter Cookies

Four halves of thick peanut butter cookies are stacked on a white plate, showcasing their soft, chewy texture with more cookies blurred in the background.
Giant Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Next Level Baker.

Giant Peanut Butter Cookies hit that chewy, peanut buttery note hard, making them a tasty choice for Memorial Day recipes. These cookies bring a bit of bakery magic to your cookout spread. Expect plenty of smiles as they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Giant Peanut Butter Cookies

Texas Style Peach Cobbler

A slice of fruit cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream sits on a white plate beside a gold spoon.
Texas Style Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Modern Honey.

Texas Style Peach Cobbler layers juicy peaches with a buttery cake topping that fits right in with Memorial Day recipes. This down-home dessert is ideal for finishing off your holiday feast with sweetness and a bit of nostalgia. It’s pure summer comfort.
Get the Recipe: Texas Style Peach Cobbler

American Flag Cookie Cake

Rectangular cake decorated to resemble the American flag with blueberries, whipped cream, and sliced strawberries. A patriotic napkin is beside the cake.
American Flag Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

American Flag Cookie Cake serves up patriotic vibes with soft cookie dough and berry topping, a solid pick for Memorial Day recipes. It’s festive and fun, making any BBQ or picnic feel a bit more special. This cookie cake is easy to share and hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: American Flag Cookie Cake

Berry Caprese Salad

A white dish filled with cherry tomatoes, blueberries, fresh basil leaves, and star-shaped pieces of cheese on a striped towel.
Berry Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Celebrating Simply.

Berry Caprese Salad mixes fresh tomatoes, blueberries, and mozzarella for a fresh and festive touch to Memorial Day recipes. The combo offers a colorful, light appetizer that’s ready in minutes. It’s an easy way to impress without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Berry Caprese Salad

Frozen Yogurt Berry Bark

A tray of yogurt bars topped with sliced strawberries, blueberries, and cashew nuts, cut into rectangular pieces.
Frozen Yogurt Berry Bark. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Christian.

Frozen Yogurt Berry Bark cools things down with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy cashews, making it a perfect Memorial Day recipes snack. Naturally sugar-free and easy to eat, it’s great for hot days and light cravings. Keep this one on hand for simple summer treats.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Yogurt Berry Bark

Vanilla White Texas Sheet Cake

A sheet cake with smooth white frosting, decorated with clusters of fresh strawberries, cherries, and raspberries in three corners.
Vanilla White Texas Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Modern Honey.

Vanilla White Texas Sheet Cake offers a moist vanilla base topped with creamy frosting, perfect for Memorial Day recipes. This crowd-pleasing sheet cake slices easily for sharing. It’s a fuss-free way to end your holiday meal on a sweet note.
Get the Recipe: Vanilla White Texas Sheet Cake

Pinchos

Grilled chicken skewers with a glazed coating are arranged on a wooden board, surrounded by slices of grilled bread.
Pinchos. Photo credit: GypsyPlate.

Pinchos are skewered chicken bites bursting with Puerto Rican flair, perfect for Memorial Day recipes when you want something quick and grilled. They’re easy to eat and even easier to love. Bring a little street food vibe to your backyard bash.
Get the Recipe: Pinchos

Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies

A white plate filled with round cookies topped with pink icing and colorful rainbow sprinkles, placed on a light surface.
Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies. Photo credit: Next Level Baker.

Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies serve soft, nostalgic sweetness that fits like a glove with Memorial Day recipes. Their tangy softness and frosted tops make them a fun, easy treat for outdoor celebrations. You can’t go wrong handing these out at any summer picnic.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies

Grilled Veggie Skewers

Colorful vegetable skewers with red onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and herbs, grilled and arranged on a white background.
Grilled Veggie Skewers. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

Grilled Veggie Skewers bring smoky, garlicky goodness that pairs perfectly with Memorial Day recipes. Colorful and fresh, they add balance to any meat-heavy spread. Toss these on the grill for a quick and tasty veggie fix.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Skewers

Potato Salad

A red bowl filled with creamy potato salad containing chopped potatoes, herbs, and diced vegetables, placed next to fresh cilantro on a checkered surface.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Strength and Sunshine.

Potato Salad nails the classic BBQ vibe, making it a star choice for Memorial Day recipes. It comes together fast and keeps everyone coming back for more at any cookout. You’ll see why this staple shines bright on Memorial Day tables and beyond.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

A bowl of pasta salad with sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, shredded cheese, and Italian dressing on the side.
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: My Suburban Kitchen.

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad layers tangy flavors and pasta for a lively addition to Memorial Day recipes. It holds up well outdoors and brings a little kick to your side dish rotation. Perfect for sharing at potlucks or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

More Roundups

About Lisa MarcAurele

Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

Reader Interactions

Comments

No Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *