29 Memorial Day Recipes So Good, Guests Might Never Leave

Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family, and with 29 recipes that hit all the right notes, they’ll be lingering around your table all day. From tasty bites to sweet treats, these dishes will make it hard for guests to say goodbye. Prepare for a memorable feast.

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie with a slice removed on a white plate. Topped with lime wedge and zest, the crust is golden brown. A hand touches the plate edge, and a small bowl with cream is nearby.
Key Lime Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want a sweet, tangy dessert, Key Lime Pie hits the spot. The combination of tart lime and creamy filling makes it a perfect treat. It’s easy to make and looks great as a centerpiece for any gathering. A slice of this pie is refreshing and light, ideal for warm weather occasions.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re looking for something light yet filling, Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is a great choice. It’s easy to eat with one hand, making it perfect for a picnic or casual gathering. You get all the flavors of a Caesar salad in a portable wrap. It’s a simple, no-fuss meal everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

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 a colorful, healthy option, Grilled Veggie Kebobs are a great addition to any grill session. They bring together a variety of veggies that cook up with a nice char and flavor. These kebobs are easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Perfect for grilling season, they’re great for guests with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

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.

If you’re grilling something impressive, Tomahawk Steak is a sure crowd-pleaser. This large cut of beef brings all the flavors of steak in a hearty serving. It’s perfect for a special occasion or just when you want to show off on the grill. You’ll love how tender and juicy it turns out.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

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.

For a fun, shareable appetizer, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are always a hit. They’re packed with flavor and have a nice balance of heat and tasty goodness. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for snacking while mingling. They’re easy to pop in your mouth and keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something light and refreshing, Tzatziki makes a great dip or spread. This creamy sauce has a cool, yogurt base with a hint of cucumber and garlic. It pairs well with grilled meats or veggies and adds a fresh touch to your spread. It’s perfect for dipping pita or serving alongside other Mediterranean dishes.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Loaded Potato Skins

Close-up of loaded potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sliced green onions on a white background.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Loaded Potato Skins come packed with all the things people love about comfort food in a fun, snackable form. The crispy outer layer pairs with rich toppings that hit all the right notes. These are perfect for grazing and keep the party energy going strong. No forks needed here, which makes them an easy favorite at any gathering!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Waldorf Salad

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

If you want a light yet flavorful salad, Waldorf Salad is a great option. It’s a mix of fresh fruit, nuts, and creamy dressing that balances sweetness and crunch. It’s a classic that’s been around for years and still manages to impress. A nice, refreshing choice for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Homemade Buckeyes

Close-up of homemade buckeyes, featuring chocolate-covered peanut butter balls. One is bitten to reveal the creamy peanut butter filling inside.
Homemade Buckeyes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For something sweet with a peanut butter twist, Homemade Buckeyes are a perfect treat. They’re simple to make and always a hit at parties. These little peanut butter bites dipped in chocolate are sure to disappear fast. They’re a fun, bite-sized dessert everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes

Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Close-up of a marshmallow swirl cookie with a bite taken out, revealing its gooey interior and white filling. Other cookies are partially visible in the background.
Marshmallow Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a fun, easy dessert, Marshmallow Swirl Cookies are a great option. These cookies combine soft marshmallows with a sweet, chewy base. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike and make a colorful addition to any table. A treat that’s sure to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

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 a tasty snack, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel brings all the heat and flavor. It’s easy to slice into bite-sized pieces, perfect for serving to guests. These pinwheels are creamy and spicy, with just the right amount of kick. They’re a fun way to enjoy the flavors of jalapeño poppers in a portable form.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

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.

If you’re after a colorful dessert, Fruit Pizza is a great choice. It’s a sweet, creamy base topped with fresh fruit that makes for a refreshing treat. It’s easy to make and looks impressive on the table. This dessert is a great way to showcase the season’s best fruit.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background.
Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a fun, no-bake dessert, Kool Aid Pie is a great option. It’s super easy to make and has a fun, bright flavor. Perfect for those hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s a refreshing and simple treat that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

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.

If you’re serving something easy and fun, Brats in a Blanket are always a good choice. These bite-sized snacks are simple to make and perfect for casual get-togethers. They combine the classic taste of bratwurst with a flaky, golden dough. They’re great for a crowd or for snacking throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Patriotic Gumdrops

Close-up of star-shaped gummy candies in red, blue, and white, coated with sugar.
Patriotic Gumdrops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want a fun, colorful treat, Patriotic Gumdrops are a great choice. These little candies bring a pop of red, white, and blue to your spread. They’re easy to make and a perfect way to add some festive flair. Plus, they’re a fun way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Gumdrops

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.

Queso Dip is that go-to crowd favorite that’s equal parts creamy and bold. It’s the kind of thing you keep dipping into without realizing how much you’ve had. Perfect for sharing—or keeping to yourself if you’re feeling greedy—it pairs well with just about anything on the table. Bring it out, and people gather immediately.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

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.

Looking for something fresh and filling? Antipasto Salad brings together a variety of flavors in one bowl. It’s a great side dish or light meal, with ingredients that offer a nice balance of tasty and fresh. Plus, it’s quick to make and always popular at parties.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

BBQ Sauce

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

You can never go wrong with BBQ Sauce on hand at a grill-out. It’s perfect for slathering on meats or serving as a dip. Whether you’re grilling chicken, burgers, or veggies, this sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor. It’s a must-have for any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

Red, White, and Blue Walking Pretzel Salad

Close-up image of a snack pack filled with whipped cream topped with red, white, and blue sugar sprinkles. Packaging displays
Red, White, and Blue Walking Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Red, White, and Blue Walking Pretzel Salad is a fun way to celebrate with a sweet and salty mix. The colorful layers make it perfect for Memorial Day, and it’s easy to grab a serving while mingling. It’s simple to prepare and adds a festive touch to your spread. Guests will love its combination of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Walking Pretzel Salad

Creamy Avocado Sauce

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

Creamy Avocado Sauce adds a cool, smooth layer to any dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or salads. This sauce has a nice, creamy texture that’s both refreshing and rich. It’s easy to whip up and a great addition to your meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce

Honeycrisp Salad

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

For something light but with a bit of crunch, Honeycrisp Salad is a refreshing option. The apples add a sweet, crisp element that pairs well with greens. It’s a simple, healthy dish that can complement any BBQ or picnic spread. It’s the kind of salad everyone will enjoy, without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

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.

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting are a bright and easy treat for your gathering. The lemon flavor is light and fresh, with a sweet raspberry topping to balance it out. These cupcakes are simple to make and perfect for guests with a sweet tooth. They’re an ideal way to finish off a meal or snack on throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

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.

If you’re looking for a quick pasta dish, Italian Pasta with Salami is perfect. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd. The salami adds a tasty kick, making this pasta dish stand out. It’s a solid side or even a main dish for your BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something that’s both light and filling, Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a great option. It’s packed with fresh ingredients that bring bright flavors together. This salad is easy to put together and pairs well with grilled meats or seafood. It’s a great way to add variety to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

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.

If you want something everyone can grab and snack on, 7 Layer Dip is a go-to. The layers of beans, cheese, and sour cream create a perfect blend of flavors. It’s simple to make and perfect for any casual get-together. It’s sure to be a crowd favorite and disappear quickly from the table.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

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 dessert, Oreo Cheesecake is a decadent option that’s hard to resist. The creamy cheesecake with crunchy Oreo bits makes a great combination. It’s easy to make ahead of time and always looks impressive. Perfect for anyone who loves a rich, sweet treat.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla.
Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you want something light but still packed with flavor, Shrimp Tacos are a great choice. The shrimp cooks up quickly, and the toppings bring a fresh, vibrant taste. These tacos are easy to assemble and perfect for a casual outdoor meal. A great option for those who want something a little different on Memorial Day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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.

Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies offer a great twist on the classic brownie. The raspberry adds a fruity tartness, while the white chocolate gives it a rich sweetness. These blondies are a great addition to any dessert table and perfect for Memorial Day. They’re easy to grab and go, making them great for a party.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a snack that packs some punch, Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings are sure to please. These wings have just the right amount of heat, with a flavorful rub that’s not too overpowering. They’re perfect for a group, and you can enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce. Wings are always a favorite at BBQs, and these won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

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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