29 4th of July Cookout Recipes I’ll Be Making Again Next Year

Backyard cookouts aren’t known for being subtle, and these 29 lineup contenders made sure nobody left with an empty plate. Every neighbor who “just stopped by” ended up parked in a lawn chair until sundown. That’s when you know things hit the sweet spot. Next year’s grill schedule is basically already booked.

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.

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mixing tradition with a new twist, Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes deliver bold flavor with a hearty filling. Swapping out the usual ingredients makes this dish stand out. It’s a versatile option that pairs well with nearly anything else on the menu. Perfect for feeding a crowd without the usual fare.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Packed with bold flavors, Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is the ultimate go-to for any gathering. Its creamy, flavorful base combined with top ingredients makes it impossible to ignore. This dip works as a great centerpiece at any table spread. Bring this out early, and expect it to be gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A healthier addition to the cookout table, Grilled Asparagus is simple yet full of unique flavors. Cooking it on the grill gives it that smoky element that stands out. It complements heavier dishes and balances out the meal perfectly. Great for easy prep and takes little time to make.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s nothing quite like crunch in every bite of Buttermilk Fried Chicken. The texture and juicy flavors come together in a way that’s worth every bit of effort. It’s a classic choice that feels like it’s made for sharing with those around you. Everyone knows it’s a reliable favorite to include on any cookout menu.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

American Flag Cake

A dessert tray decorated like an American flag with blueberries in the top left corner and sliced strawberries arranged in rows on a white creamy base.
American Flag Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing a bold visual, American Flag Cake is an eye-catching dessert that everyone notices first at a cookout. The design is the star that gets everyone talking. It’s layered with fun and makes for a sweet ending to the event. Perfect for adding something memorable to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: American Flag Cake

Grilled Hot Dogs

Four hot dogs in buns topped with crispy fried onions are arranged on parchment paper in a basket.
Grilled Hot Dogs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A grill wouldn’t feel complete without Grilled Hot Dogs as an easy centerpiece. They invite endless topping variations that suit everyone’s style. It’s hard to go wrong with these since nearly every guest welcomes them. Quick to add flavor and fits right into the theme without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A bowl of rice topped with grilled chicken, creamy sauce, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion slices.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining hearty sides with exciting flavors, Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl proves that chicken dishes can be innovative. Layered textures add variety for bite after bite. Great for those who want a twist on staple cookout dishes. It’s satisfying yet light enough to pair with other grilled options.
Get the Recipe: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Skewered or served on a plate, Grilled Shrimp brings something different to the table. The grilling process makes it flavorful in a way that pan-cooking can’t. As an option for seafood lovers, this dish brings variety to any gathering. It’s always a hit for those looking for something fresh and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Perfectly sized for snacking, BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw are equal parts flavorful and convenient. The slaw adds texture and a bit of crunch, balancing the BBQ chicken. These mini bites are ideal for mixing into larger meals without being overwhelming. Easy to grab and go during the event.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A unique blend of two favorites, Taco Pizza brings something different to gatherings. It combines flavors and textures for tasty bites that grab attention. Great for anyone craving something out of the ordinary. Enough variety makes this a solid choice that’ll likely be remembered next time.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a cheeseburger with a sesame bun, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beef patty.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

With a hearty base, Grilled Chicken Sandwich fits right into a cookout lineup for something more filling. The grill seals in a great texture without drying anything out. Customizable toppings make this a standout option for groups. Expect this one to be a regular part of future menus.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside.
Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kid and adult-friendly alike, Homemade Corn Dogs make cookout food feel a little more fun. The crisp exterior contrasts with the soft filling in a way everyone enjoys. It’s easy to serve and always draws a line at the serving table. A quick crowd-pleasing option that doesn’t need too much prep.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kebobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sticking shrimp onto skewers creates variety in meal presentation, making Grilled Shrimp Kebobs exciting to serve. These kebobs mix convenience with bite-sized fun during gatherings. They stand out among other plates due to their grilling style. Guests are likely to come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Adding color to the table, Cowboy Caviar works great as an option alongside heavier meals. It’s vibrant and full of contrasting textures for refreshing bites. This dish works well as a dip or standalone side. Best served fresh, it allows flexibility for accompanying plates and styles.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Always a hit, Beef Tacos manage to bring lively flavors to any cookout without complication. Their handheld style ensures easy serving for any crowd. Topping choices allow plenty of customization, so nobody misses out. These tacos are quick, flexible, and something that everyone loves having around.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfect for meals requiring rich flavor, Grilled Chicken Thighs offer barbecue-style depth without added fuss. Smaller portions make them ideal for large groups. These thighs balance tender bites with smoky elements, making them stand out. Whether alone or paired, they’re a staple dish at most grillouts.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

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.

A classic choice for grilling setups, Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time. Prepped and baked first, their texture sets them apart from traditional grill-only dishes. They work well as a shareable centerpiece across tables. Expect them to disappear quickly at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone loves the convenience of Ham and Cheese Sliders for feed-a-crowd setups. Easy to grab and packed with great flavor in small bites. They bring a light option to balance heavier plates while staying a group favorite. Perfect for those who want something to pair with other classics nearby.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Building layers offers both presentation and variety, making Seven Layer Salad an easy win for cookouts. It combines multiple textures into one dish for every forkful. Larger crowds will love its make-ahead style and fresh vibes all around. Don’t overlook adding this dish to your final lineup.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a restaurant-style dish home-made, Homemade KFC Zinger Burger flies off the serving table every time. Its combination of crunch and spice gives it a memorable bite appeal. This burger goes hand in hand with any classic side dish for group meals. Certain to be a highlight among the burgers offered.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings.
Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When looking for something lighter, Grilled Salmon packs a punch without overwhelming the meal. The grill gives it a smokiness that enhances its natural flavor. Perfect for those who want a healthier protein option on their plate. It’s always well-received thanks to its simple yet bold presence.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smaller versions pack just as much flavor with Mini Tacos being a great sharable plate option. Bite-sized servings allow guests to mix multiple dishes together. They’re easy to create variety from and deliver fast satisfaction overall. Plenty of these always ensures a successful end for your table hosting.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold grilled flavors make Chipotle Grilled Chicken a step above ordinary barbecue plates. With smoky spice, this chicken dish stands out for seasoned gatherings. It can work alongside many sides without stealing attention away. A reliable main event meal that fits effortlessly into menus.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Capturing burger perfection at home, Copycat Smash Burger recreates restaurant flavors in every bite. It’s all about simplicity combined with a grilling method everyone enjoys. These burgers easily complement all side dishes without crowding your space. Known for bites worth keeping messy fingers around.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing global-inspired flavors to grilling setups, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers add something fresh for groups interested new styles. Stackable and easy prep dishes help guarantee everyone loves handling fun new mix up skew recipes non repetitive_TYPES Return Run подключение Steak_EVENTS
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Loaded with sandwich favorites, Italian Sliders combine big flavor in smaller bites ideal for serving up fast. Guests can pile them high or grab portions for quick bites. Less mess and more flavor keep their appeal strong for crowded tables. Easy to prep and easy to share, this menu choice works every time.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Grilled Tri Tip

Sliced medium-rare steak arranged on a wooden board, topped with a green herb sauce.
Grilled Tri Tip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A reliable option for meat lovers, Grilled Tri Tip brings that distinct charm only fire can add. Its bold flavor stands out without needing much extra. It carves up easily, making it perfect for sharing among guests. This option handles being both the star of the plate or paired with other sides effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Tri Tip

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.

Offering something special, Lobster Roll brings a touch of seafood variation to the table. It’s a fantastic choice for guests looking for something less heavy but just as packed with flavor. The roll itself makes it easy to handle during gatherings. Seafood fans will be thrilled to see this on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

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.

For a showstopper option, Tomahawk Steak provides both flavor and presentation. It’s a hearty choice that commands attention when placed on the grill. Cutting it creates an easy way to share with everyone at the gathering. This dish is as much about sharing as it is about delivering amazing flavors to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

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