Memorial Day is all about enjoying good food and good company, so why not make it easier with some delicious BBQ meal prep recipes? In this collection, you’ll find 18 tasty ideas that will have everyone raving, while keeping your cookout stress-free. From marinated meats to flavorful sides, these recipes are easy to whip up in advance and will make your holiday gathering a breeze.
Contents
- 1. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
- 2. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- 3. Classic BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
- 4. Spicy Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- 5. Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill
- 6. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
- 7. Smoky Chipotle Chicken Skewers
- 8. Grilled Vegetable Platter
- 9. Marinated Flank Steak Tacos
- 10. Caprese Salad Skewers
- 11. BBQ Baked Beans
- 12. Creamy Coleslaw with a Twist
- 13. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice
- 14. Herb-Infused Potato Salad
- 15. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon
- 16. Classic Macaroni Salad
- 17. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dessert Bars
- 18. Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
1. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a must for any cookout. Slather it with herb butter for a burst of flavor that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing!
2. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
BBQ chicken drumsticks are a classic choice for any outdoor gathering. They are easy to prepare and everyone loves sinking their teeth into that smoky, saucy goodness. Just throw them on the grill, let the flavor soak in, and you’re all set for a tasty meal!
3. Classic BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
Slathered in a rich, homemade sauce, these BBQ ribs are a hit at any cookout. They get that perfect balance of smoky flavor and sweetness that everyone loves. Serve them up with some sides for a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
4. Spicy Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Spicy pulled pork sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser for any cookout. The tender, smoky meat paired with a tangy sauce and crunchy toppings makes for an unforgettable bite. Serve them up with some fries for a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill
Grilling stuffed bell peppers is an easy way to add a colorful touch to your Memorial Day cookout. You can fill them with grains, beans, and fresh veggies for a tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy. Just toss them on the grill, and watch as the flavors blend together in a smoky delight!
6. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
These lemon herb grilled shrimp are a delicious addition to any cookout. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice and fresh herbs, they bring a bright flavor that everyone will enjoy. Quick to prepare and easy to grill, they make for a tasty and refreshing dish at your Memorial Day gathering.
7. Smoky Chipotle Chicken Skewers
These smoky chipotle chicken skewers are ideal for adding some flair to your cookout. Marinated in a mix of chipotle and spices, the chicken turns out juicy and flavorful. Pair them with some colorful veggies for a tasty and visually appealing dish!
8. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Grilled vegetables are a great addition to any Memorial Day cookout. Just toss your favorites like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes on the grill for a few minutes. The smoky flavor and vibrant colors will have everyone reaching for more.
9. Marinated Flank Steak Tacos
These marinated flank steak tacos are a fantastic choice for your Memorial Day cookout. The juicy beef pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like tomatoes and avocado. They’re easy to assemble and sure to get everyone talking at your BBQ!
10. Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese salad skewers are a fun and fresh addition to any cookout. They combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with balsamic glaze. These colorful bites are easy to make and will definitely brighten up your Memorial Day spread!
11. BBQ Baked Beans
BBQ baked beans are a classic side that brings a hearty touch to any cookout. The blend of sweet and smoky flavors will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re simple to prepare ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying the day with family and friends.
12. Creamy Coleslaw with a Twist
This creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing twist to your cookout spread. The blend of colorful veggies and a zesty dressing will have everyone coming back for more. It’s a fun side that pairs well with all your BBQ favorites!
13. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice
This zesty cilantro lime rice is the perfect side for your Memorial Day cookout. It’s light, flavorful, and pairs well with any BBQ spread you have planned. Just mix in some fresh lime juice and cilantro for that refreshing kick!
14. Herb-Infused Potato Salad
This herb-infused potato salad is a delightful side dish for your Memorial Day cookout. With fresh herbs and colorful veggies, it adds a refreshing touch to your BBQ spread. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with family and friends!
15. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon
Grilled pineapple with a sprinkle of cinnamon brings a sweet and smoky twist to your cookout. The caramelized edges and warm aroma make it a tasty side or dessert option. It’s easy to prepare and will add a fun touch to your Memorial Day celebration.
16. Classic Macaroni Salad
This classic macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser at any cookout. With its creamy dressing and fresh cherry tomatoes, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your BBQ favorites. Whip it up in no time and watch everyone come back for seconds!
17. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dessert Bars
These chocolate chip cookie dessert bars are a tasty way to end your cookout. With layers of gooey chocolate and rich cookie dough, they’re sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the day with friends and family!
18. Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
This watermelon feta salad is a light and tasty addition to your Memorial Day cookout. The sweetness of the watermelon mixes perfectly with the salty feta and fresh mint. It’s not just refreshing, but also super easy to whip up in no time!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
