I Rotate 29 Labor Day Recipes Like a Pro Every Year
Every year, long weekends come with the same question: what’s actually worth making again? Rotating through 29 tried-and-true Labor Day crowd-pleasers keeps the stress low and the plates cleared. The secret isn’t how complicated they are; it’s knowing what gets finished first.

Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Start your table or snack setup with something fun and creative. Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos add a playful theme that catches the eye. These treats are a hit at get-togethers because of their combination of flavor and presentation. Perfect for kids or adults who want a little sweetness with their festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Charcuterie Board

Hosting a party is easier with foods that offer variety and choice. A Charcuterie Board becomes the centerpiece, providing a range of options for all guests. It’s an ideal blend of items, creating a mix-and-match experience. People enjoy this because it’s both easy to share and customize to everyone’s preferences.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Spicy snacks are always a crowd-pleaser during gatherings. Featuring the familiar flavor of jalapeños, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel balances spiciness with creaminess. They’re bite-sized, making them great finger foods. Friends love grabbing extras from the plate before they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Mango Shrimp Salad

Seafood and fruit can be such a refreshing combination. Introducing Mango Shrimp Salad to your lineup adds brightness to meal offerings. It brings a light, tropical vibe with a hint of something fresh. A perfect choice when you want a lighter dish on your table.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. They’re hearty, filling, and perfect for sharing or keeping for yourself. Each bite is loaded with everything you crave from a layered meal. People always go for seconds when these are on the menu.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes
Grilled Lobster Tail

For guests seeking something indulgent, this option is ideal. Grilled Lobster Tail adds a touch of elegance without too many frills. It pairs beautifully with other grilled favorites or stands out on its own. A top pick for anyone who enjoys seafood options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lobster Tail
Chocolate Ice Cream

Cold treats are a must when hosting events, and this one is a classic. Chocolate Ice Cream is loved by just about everyone and fits in with any dessert spread. It’s simple, reliable, and offers that nostalgic favorite flavor. Stack it with other desserts or enjoy a scoop on its own.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Ice Cream
Antipasto Salad

Featuring an assortment of simple, fresh ingredients, this dish is a go-to. Antipasto Salad gives guests variety and pairs well with grilled mains. It brings together things everyone already loves, but in salad form. A great choice when you want a balanced, crowd-friendly item on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Perfect if you’re looking for a little spice wrapped in every bite. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls deliver that kick with a soft, warm touch. They’re grab-and-go friendly, making them great for mingling events. If your group likes bold flavors, these rolls are sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls
Chocolate Chip Cookies

Keep things simple with a dessert that’s always appreciated. Chocolate Chip Cookies are an easy way to give guests something they don’t have to think twice about trying. Classic and forever in style, they can be paired with drinks or desserts. Put them out, and watch them disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies
Big Mac Sloppy Joe

This creative twist mixes two comfort food favorites into one. Big Mac Sloppy Joe takes burgers to the next level, adding that party-style easiness. Everyone loves its bold flavor and casual vibe. It’s as messy as you want it while staying super fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe
Ice Cream Cake

If you love desserts that please a crowd without fuss, look no further. Ice Cream Cake is a win for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering. Both fun to look at and serve, it’s great for guests of all ages. There’s no arguing its place as a top-tier celebration dessert.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake
Honeycrisp Salad

Simple salad options sometimes make the biggest impression. Honeycrisp Salad brings balance with a combination of crunch and freshness. Whether used as a side or the star dish, it offers something easy for guests to enjoy. Include it when you want an option people will keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Biscoff Ice Cream

Desserts that combine creamy textures and distinct flavors are often crowd favorites. Biscoff Ice Cream delivers on those fronts, offering a sweet twist to the dessert lineup. It’s rich but easy-going, making it ideal as a stand-alone treat. Adding it to your spread feels like an upgrade without reinventing the wheel.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream
Cobb Salad

Looking for a hearty salad that eats like a meal? Cobb Salad gives you a mix of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s packed with everything you’d want for a complete dish. Great for parties where you want to offer a lighter but filling option.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Dairy Free Ice Cream

Catering to everyone’s needs can be tricky, but a dessert like this makes it simple. Dairy Free Ice Cream ensures that no one feels left out when it’s time for the sweeter part of the meal. It’s a thoughtful addition that’s both tasty and inclusive. Everyone appreciates having this option on hand.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream
Cowboy Caviar

For a lighter dip or mix-in, this dish is always a success at gatherings. Cowboy Caviar provides flavors that feel versatile and approachable. It’s great on chips, by itself, or as an add-on to other dishes. Casual yet packed with possibilities, it is definitely worth including.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar
Homemade Buckeyes

Sweet treats that are bite-sized and easy to share are always welcome. Homemade Buckeyes fit the bill, offering a mix of sweetness without being tricky to serve. These are crowd-friendly and perfect for mingling. Bring a plate of these, and they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Combining all the things people love about a salad in a portable meal makes this a simple hit. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is a great option for guests who want flavor without the fuss. It’s filling, easy to eat, and pairs well with other dishes. A staple for casual gatherings or lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Strawberry Ice Cream

Including fruity desserts helps balance a hearty spread. Strawberry Ice Cream adds that lighter dessert option everyone looks forward to. It’s refreshing, easy to serve, and pairs well with other desserts. A must-have for anyone who wants a classic with a fruity twist.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Ice Cream
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Bacon lovers will gravitate to this instantly. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots pack bold flavors into snack-sized bites, perfect for mingling. These are fun to serve and even more fun to eat. If you want something different that feels fun, these are a smart pick.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Even traditional sides can have a vibrant twist. Red Cabbage Coleslaw stands out with its color and flavor, making it a familiar yet unique option. It’s an ideal pairing for grilled foods or other mains. Guests often appreciate a fresh side like this one on their plates.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Mini Tacos

Smaller handheld foods bring energy to any party. Mini Tacos are easy to grab and pack all the punch of bigger versions in a smaller size. These are fun for everyone to try and make mingling more enjoyable. If tacos fit your theme, these are a must-have on the table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos
Red Velvet Brownies

For desserts that offer bold flavor and bright colors, this dish wins hands down. Red Velvet Brownies give your dessert table that extra pop of character. They’re a twist on traditional brownies, making them memorable. Add them when a chocolate dessert just won’t stand out enough.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Brownies
Crack Chicken Dip

Dips that pair effortlessly with chips or bread are a go-to for any gathering. Crack Chicken Dip is rich, packed with flavor, and keeps people coming back to refill their plates. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that works from start to finish at any event. Keep it warm, and watch it go quickly!
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

If fresh and flavorful sides are what you need, this dish checks the box. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad balances crunch with just a touch of heat. It’s a great contrast to heavier main dishes, making it a thoughtful addition. Serve it when you want something out of the ordinary yet still comforting.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Craving something fresh with a bit of a kick? Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad offers a balance of light crunch and heat that complements heavier dishes. It’s an easy addition to any meal that cuts through richer flavors. Serve it chilled to keep it extra refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Spinach Artichoke Dip

Fans of creamy and shareable appetizers will love this dish. Spinach Artichoke Dip is warm, flavorful, and always a favorite on the snack table. It goes perfectly with chips, bread, or raw veggies. Offer it as a starter, and watch people hover around until it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip
Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Including meats that offer both presentation and flavor can be a great choice. Grilled Steak Pinwheels combine a classic main course with a spin that your guests will talk about. They’re as visually appealing as they are tasty. Easy to serve and packed with flavor, these are great for casual or formal gatherings alike.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Pinwheels
About the Author

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.
