29 Memorial Day Recipes To Get Your Summer Eating Habits Off To A Strong Start

Most plans to “start fresh” fall apart by lunch, but not when these 29 Memorial Day recipes are involved. They sneak in like, “Hey, we’re fun but also totally holding this whole thing together.” There’s a little structure, a lot of comfort, and zero room for boring meals. Basically, it’s a reset button disguised as a plate of food.

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Loaded with the flavors of a fiesta, Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for getting into the spirit of the season. Imagine enjoying corn on the cob but in a more convenient and mess-free form. With its combination of robust spices and fresh ingredients, it brings festivity to your plate. Add it to your next meal, and enjoy every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

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.

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip could be the star of your party spread. Creamy and packed with chicken, bacon, and a hint of ranch, this dip invites everyone back for seconds. It’s versatile, so pair it with crackers, chips, or veggies of choice. It’s a convenient way to complete your gathering’s flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

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.

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Loaded Potato Skins offer everything you crave in a snack. Loaded with hearty toppings, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any get-together. These are easy to share, making them an ideal appetizer or side. You’ll find that they’re a go-to for friends and family gatherings alike.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

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.

Shake things up with a refreshing Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Fresh salads never go out of style, and this one has a mix of bold shrimp and smooth avocado dressing. Its balanced flavors provide a tasty complement to any main dish. With a touch of spice, it’s an appealing choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized and packed with flavor, Philly Cheesesteak Sliders capture the essence of a classic sandwich in a compact form. Their cheesy, meaty goodness combines perfectly with any cookout. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, they fit seamlessly into a spread. No fuss, just good eating with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dripping with nostalgia and fulfilling flavors, Million Dollar Casserole brings comfort to your table. It’s a dish that warms the heart with its rich texture. Ideal for sharing, it can be a main event at family dinners or parties. Let it be a highlight of your holiday feast this year with its generational appeal.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

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.

Sweet and smoky come together in BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw, offering a mouthful of tangy goodness. These sliders pair well with just about any side, making them versatile for gatherings. The slaw adds a refreshing crunch that completes the flavor profile. A suitable choice for pleasing any crowd.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

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.

Wrapped in tender dough, Brats in a Blanket are a playful twist on the traditional hot dog in a blanket. These are easy to grab and enjoy in social settings, making them a popular choice for celebrations. A nod to comfort food, they add warmth and fun to any meal. Enjoy personalizing them with your favorite condiments.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Copycat Big Mac Salad brings a favorite burger experience into a healthier realm. It’s like having the components of a classic burger but in a bowl, making it rich in familiar flavors without the bun. With this dish, you can enjoy the feel of fast-food indulgence any time. Perfect for keeping things light yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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.

Opt for a sprinkle of sweetness with an Ice Cream Cake at your next celebration. This frozen delight combines creamy ice cream with layers for a perfect dessert centerpiece. Great for any gathering, it lets you skip the store-bought version. It’s easy to add to the day’s menu and enjoyed by guests young and old.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

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.

Mini Tacos are a bite-sized treat that’s both fun and flavorful. A variety of fillings fit inside each tiny shell, making them great for passing around at gatherings. With these tacos, you bring a hint of festive charm to any meal. They’re simple to serve and a fantastic way to share a love of tacos.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

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.

Combine fruit and dessert with Fruit Pizza that’s visually appealing and tasty. A sweet crust topped with fresh and colorful fruit invites creativity. Perfect for family gatherings or parties, it’s a fun and nutritious way to enjoy dessert. Each slice is an opportunity to enjoy a bit of nature’s candy.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

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.

Perfect for spicing things up, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels offer a blend of heat and creaminess rolled into bite-sized snacks. These pinwheels are great for adding a bit of kick to any appetizer tray. Shareable and fulfilling, they’re easy to love. Make them centerpiece-worthy at any gathering or pairing option.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Embrace the sweet side with Biscoff Ice Cream, a treat that pairs creamy richness with cookie goodness. This ice cream improves traditional desserts blended with beloved cookie flavors. A refreshing choice for ending meals on a sweet note or cooling off. Bring it out as a fantastic and simple treat anyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

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.

Take joy in the medley of flavors offered with Antipasto Salad that’s truly a feast for the eyes and palate. Perfect for side or starter, it includes a mix of goodies that delight anyone. Serve it up for any lunch or dinner gathering to add an Italian touch. Its flavors blend beautifully, offering freshness in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Opt for some classic comfort with Buffalo Chicken Dip that blends spice with savory flavors. Perfect for chip dipping, it’s a consistent favorite. Pair it with various dipping snacks to have something easy to share with family and friends. This dish keeps gatherings lively and delicious without a hitch.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

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.

Celebrate a lunchtime favorite with Ham and Cheese Sliders that deliver classic flavors in a small package. They’re easy to whip up and even easier to share, ideal for any gathering. Fit for any casual dinner or party, their comforting flavors make them approachable. Always a welcoming hit at any table they’re served upon.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

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.

Capture smokey and salty in a neat package with Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Great for appetizers, the blend of flavors becomes irresistible to many. An easy choice for preparing ahead or bringing to parties, they satisfy a craving for tasty bites. Upgrade any event and keep them coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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.

Uncover the flavors of Italy with Italian Pasta with Salami, a dish that’s both comforting and full of character. It combines the familiarity of pasta with the rich essence of cured meat. It’s versatile enough for a big dinner or an intimate family meal. Add this recipe to your rotation for a pleasantly fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Sweet meets savory with Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders, offering a taste of island life. The tenderness of pork combined with hints of sweetness suits any casual get-together. These sliders adapt well to any setting, providing flavor that’s hard to beat. Suitable for mingling with side dishes, making gatherings all the more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A meal that’s refreshing without being too complex, Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies blends texture and taste seamlessly. Incorporating favorite veggies, this dish is a healthier option without skimping on flavor. Perfect for picnics or backyard get-togethers, it’s both filling and light. A go-to for when you want more varied, delicious eating.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats in star shapes, decked out in red, white, and blue colors, are sprinkled with fun decorations and beautifully stacked on a plate.
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Celebrate any occasion with Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats that add a fun twist to the dessert table. They’re great for sticking to a theme while still offering a favorite marshmallow crunch. Perfect for parties with just the right amount of sweetness. Share with friends and family to bring a bit of red, white, and blue to gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background.
Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Key Lime Bars bring a zing of citrus to your dining experience that isn’t overpowering but refreshingly welcome. The balance between sweet and tart offers a wonderful dessert choice. Enjoy them at picnics and outdoor gatherings where they become a cooling refresher. Enhance your dessert options without much effort and wow any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh and juicy, Pico de Gallo complements almost any dish with its unmistakable presence. The overall mix of ingredients creates a refreshing side perfect for various meals. Whether for dipping or topping, its consistent appeal spices up any gathering. Add it to your menu and enjoy a bit of added flavor with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taking comfort food to the next level, Mac and Cheese offers creamy indulgence made for sharing. It’s never out of place at gatherings or family meals, always welcoming and fulfilling. Pair it with your favorite main course and watch it shine with every scoop. Perfect for mid-week dinners or grand family feasts alike.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mix elegance and nourishment with Cobb Salad, a perfect blend of textures that everyone loves. It’s colorful, health-forward, and seriously fulfilling for all parts of the meal. Use this dish as a well-rounded option that mixes modern tastes with traditional favorites. A timeless classic reimagined for today’s gatherings is just a bite away.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

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.

Meet everyone’s craving for garden-fresh, grilled perfection with Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Excellent for bringing a healthy choice to your menu while still being full of flavor. Fit for any cookout, it’s all about simple ingredients and balanced tastes. Bring them to the grill and share with ease, knowing they suit any dietary theme.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Patriotic Gumdrops

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

Offer a sugary treat that nods to celebration with Patriotic Gumdrops that match any theme. Easy to distribute and so much fun to eat, they’re just the kind of playful additions people crave for entertaining. Finish any table setting with colors that match the mood. These straightforward sweets bring cheer to any festivity.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Gumdrops

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get ready for a crowd pleaser with Cheeseburger Sliders, bringing a down-to-earth charm right to your hands. Compact yet full of classic cheeseburger flavor, they’re destined to be a hit. Perfect for little hands to hold or adults to savor, they’re a versatile choice. Share their juicy layers and they’re sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

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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