29 Labor Day Dishes That Keep Everyone At The Table

Labor Day brings everyone together, and these 29 dishes make sure no one wanders off. Each plate holds its own, sparking conversation and occasional laughter at the table. Family and friends will fight over the last bites without realizing it. It’s a spread built for memories, not just food.

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light meals with bold flavors are perfect for gatherings. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing combines refreshing textures and hearty bites for everyone at the table. Easy to share with a group. It’s both flavorful and fitting.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Filling options that pair well with group meals are always a win. Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls offer bites that keep conversations rolling during any get-together. A dish that’s quick to grab and enjoy. Reliable every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds.
Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hand-held food is always a favorite during casual meals. Brats in a Blanket make sharing simple without needing big plates. Easy to pass around when everyone wants something fun to eat. Perfect for any table gathering.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Hot Fudge Sundae

A glass filled with vanilla ice cream, crumbled cookies, and chocolate sauce being poured on top.
Hot Fudge Sundae. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sweet endings often leave lasting memories. Hot Fudge Sundae wraps up meals with creamy textures and rich flavors. The warm fudge against cold ice cream makes each spoonful rewarding. Easy to serve after everyone’s eaten. It’s something people reach for at the end.
Get the Recipe: Hot Fudge Sundae

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.

Quick bites keep energy high during social events. Grilled Shrimp brings light but pleasing options for everyone. Its smoky flavor makes it stand out without being too heavy. Great for making group meals feel casual. It’s easy to share and enjoy together.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Offering dessert can tie up meals nicely during group gatherings. Blueberry Cheesecake blends sweet flavors with creamy layers, perfect for sharing moments. A dish people look forward to after finishing a meal. Always trending at tables.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Greek Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers topped with a creamy white sauce and chopped herbs, served on a plate with sliced vegetables.
Greek Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Meals can feel special without requiring too much preparation. Greek Chicken Kabobs offer a nice balance to shared plates with their delicious portions. Great for serving families or groups. Keeps people connected over meals.
Get the Recipe: Greek Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Pineapple

Close-up of grilled pineapple rings topped with coarse salt and drizzled with syrup.
Grilled Pineapple. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Side dishes can be as fun as the main course. Grilled Pineapple delivers sweetness and a touch of surprise at tables. It’s an option that pairs well with other dishes. Perfect when looking for variety among shared plates.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple

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.

Ideal for gatherings, it’s neither too heavy nor too light. Italian Pasta with Salami makes plates more enjoyable with layers of flavor and texture. Easy to pass around when the group is seated. A hit for shared meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Two glass cups filled with layers of sliced strawberries, chocolate, granola, and chopped pistachios, with a blurred bowl of nuts in the background.
Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Desserts that are visually appealing also bring people together. Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup combines bright flavors with rich bites without being overwhelming. A fun ending to meals at group settings. Always enjoyed at celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Italian Sub Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheel sandwiches filled with spinach, cream cheese, red peppers, and herbs, neatly stacked and garnished with parsley.
Italian Sub Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fun bite-sized plates often create easy connections over meals. Italian Sub Pinwheels keep things fun and appealing for all ages at the table. They’re perfect for casual moments. Everyone grabs a piece without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

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.

Meals feel complete when hearty options are on the table. Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe delivers big flavors that bring people closer around shared plates. Great for solid meals when everyone is gathered. Dependable for filling moments.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Ice Cream Sandwich

Ice cream sandwiches with wafer cookies and ice cream containing visible berry pieces, arranged on a wooden board with a white background.
Ice Cream Sandwich. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple desserts add a touch of excitement to group meals. Ice Cream Sandwich brings cool textures and fun bites for everyone. They’re easy to serve and always a favorite at big gatherings. Great during shared moments.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Sandwich

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized meals create fun dynamics at the table. Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) offers convenient ways to enjoy classic flavors. Perfect for casual gatherings. Keeps everyone interacting over shared plates.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

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.

Shareable dips keep tables lively during meals. Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip ensures everyone stays involved with layered textures and flavors. It’s quick to grab while chatting or lounging. Fitting for casual table spreads.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Light dishes bring variety to large meals. Beet Salad offers refreshing textures that complement heartier plates without crowding the meal. Great for adding balance to shared table moments. Always easy to include among other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper.
Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Fun plates get the conversation started during meals. Big Mac Pinwheels offer an easy and pleasing way to enjoy familiar flavors in smaller portions. Perfect for keeping everyone engaged at gatherings. Always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Pinwheels

BBQ Sauce

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

Sauces make plates more engaging at shared meals. BBQ Sauce enhances grilled or hearty dishes in simple ways. Adds bold flavors without complicating the meal. A favorite to complement various plates at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

Grilled Pork Chops

A grilled pork chop garnished with chopped parsley is served on a plate.
Grilled Pork Chops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Comfort food fits great into table settings with loved ones. Grilled Pork Chops bring warmth and fulfilling portions to shared plates. Perfect for anchoring the meal as a centerpiece without going overboard. Always reliable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate.
Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Messy plates can be the most fun at group meals. Big Mac Sloppy Joe brings hearty servings to relaxed tables with laughter and connection. Easy to share during casual meetups. Perfect for big appetites among friends or family.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Balanced plates often bring people together near the table. Chicken Caesar Salad provides refreshing portions that keep meals light yet filling. Great as a centerpiece or side at shared gatherings. Effortlessly fits into any crowd meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

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.

Lighter mains easily complement group plates. Grilled Salmon provides bold flavors without overpowering the table spread. Its balance of richness and freshness makes it a versatile favorite. Great for sharing during celebrations. A go-to option among lighter protein choices.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Egg Salad

A bowl of creamy egg salad topped with chopped parsley and paprika, set on a light-colored surface.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light bites make a welcome addition to laid-back gatherings. Egg Salad brings simplicity and fresh flavors to the table. Pairs well with larger plates without overpowering them. Easy to scoop and share among loved ones, making it a go-to choice when you want something familiar and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Dairy Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl.
Dairy Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Simple desserts bring everyone closer if dietary options vary. Dairy Free Ice Cream provides creamy enjoyment for all without excluding anyone at the table. It’s fitting when ending meals with something sweet. Always thoughtful to offer.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light side plates often complete meals at gatherings. Italian Pasta Salad combines refreshing textures and familiar bites without crowding the table’s variety. It works well across families or group meetups. Easy to share during lunches or dinners.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Close-up of cooked beef chunks garnished with chopped herbs on a plate with a spoon nearby.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hearty but shareable plates matter when feeding a group. Garlic Butter Steak Bites offer comfort and easy portions combined into one dish. Great for casual or upgraded meals. Perfect as small bites during group settings.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

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.

Desserts that are fun and colorful often stand out at gatherings. Fruit Pizza brings sweetness with easy servings that keep people engaged near the table. It’s not complex yet it invites excitement among shared dishes. A cheery plate for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

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

Finger foods keep gatherings moving smoothly without big setups. Grilled Shrimp Kabobs combine simple textures with bold flavors that people easily grab. Perfect for casual table moments with shared laughter. Always fitting among mixed plates.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Variety matters during group meals when feeding larger groups. Honeycrisp Salad offers refreshing bites that complement heavier dishes. An easy side without stealing focus from the main course. Casual but always welcome at the table.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

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.

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