50 Irresistible Labor Day Food Ideas to Make Your Weekend Extra Tasty

Labor Day weekend is the unofficial send-off to summer, which makes it the perfect excuse to fire up the grill, pile the picnic table high, and share good food with friends. The dishes below range from classic cookout staples to fresh twists that keep the menu interesting without demanding restaurant-level skill. Mix and match a few of these ideas to round out your spread or tackle the entire lineup if you’re feeding a crowd. Either way, you’ll head into autumn with plenty of great memories—and maybe a few new favorite recipes.

1. Classic Backyard Burgers

Nothing beats a juicy burger fresh off the grill. Season ground beef with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire, then form sturdy patties that hold their shape over high heat. Toast the buns for extra crunch and set out toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Offer ketchup, mustard, and mayo so everyone can build a burger that feels just right.

2. Smoky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Drumsticks stay moist on the grill and pick up smoke beautifully. Marinate the chicken in a simple mix of ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar for at least two hours. Grill over medium heat, turning often and brushing with more sauce until the meat reaches 165°F. The sticky finish and charred edges make these irresistible to kids and adults alike.

3. Grilled Veggie Skewers

Veggie skewers add color and balance to any cookout. Thread chunks of zucchini, peppers, onions, and tomatoes onto metal or soaked wooden sticks, then brush with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and oregano. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning once, until the vegetables soften and char lightly. Serve as a side or tuck them into warm pita with hummus for a quick vegetarian main.

4. Loaded Potato Salad

This potato salad borrows flavors from a classic loaded baked potato. Boil red potatoes until tender, then fold them into a dressing of mayo, sour cream, and Dijon. Stir in crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and scallions for crunch and tang. Chill for at least an hour so the flavors meld and the salad firms up.

5. Watermelon Feta Salad

Sweet melon and salty cheese create an unbeatable pairing. Cube seedless watermelon, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and scatter torn mint over the top. A quick drizzle of lime juice and extra-virgin olive oil ties everything together. Serve chilled to keep the salad crisp and refreshing on a hot afternoon.

6. Spicy Shrimp Kebabs

Large shrimp cook in mere minutes, making them perfect for appetizers. Toss the shell-off shrimp in olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, and lime zest, then thread onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for two minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime for bright heat.

7. Sweet Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Peak-season corn barely needs anything, but herb butter takes it over the top. Blend softened butter with parsley, chives, and a pinch of garlic powder. Grill or boil the corn until tender, then roll each ear in the flavored butter. Sprinkle with flaky salt just before serving for extra pop.

8. Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Low and slow pork shoulder transforms into tender shreds that soak up sauce like a sponge. Rub the meat with brown sugar, paprika, and cumin, then cook in a slow cooker or smoker until it falls apart. Mix with your favorite barbecue sauce and heap onto toasted buns. A tangy slaw on top adds crunch and balance.

9. Veggie Black Bean Burgers

These burgers satisfy meat-eaters and veg fans alike. Mash black beans with cooked quinoa, sautéed onions, and spices, then shape into patties and chill so they firm up. Cook in a cast-iron skillet or on a well-oiled grill until crisp on both sides. Top with avocado and salsa for a fresh finish.

10. Macaroni and Cheese Bake

Comfort food never goes out of style. Make a simple roux, whisk in milk, and melt a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a velvety sauce. Combine with al dente macaroni, pour into a baking dish, and shower with buttery breadcrumbs. Bake until the edges caramelize and the top turns gold.

11. Caprese Pasta Salad

This salad channels the classic tomato-mozzarella combo into a picnic-friendly dish. Cook rotini until just tender, rinse to cool, and mix with halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls. Add torn basil and a balsamic vinaigrette for zing. It travels well and tastes great at room temperature.

12. Garlic Parmesan Wings

Skip the fryer and bake wings until the skin crisps naturally. Toss hot wings in melted butter infused with minced garlic and finish with a snowfall of grated Parmesan. The savory coating clings to every nook and cranny. Serve alongside cool ranch or blue cheese for dunking.

13. Peach Cobbler

Summer peaches reach their peak just in time for Labor Day. Slice ripe fruit and toss with a touch of sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Top with dollops of lightly sweetened biscuit dough and bake until the peaches bubble and the crust browns. A scoop of ice cream adds cool contrast.

14. Coleslaw with Apple

Fresh apple brings sweetness and crunch to traditional slaw. Mix shredded green and purple cabbage with grated carrot and thin apple matchsticks. A dressing of mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a splash of honey ties it together. Serve chilled to keep the texture crisp.

15. Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Salmon takes on a delicate smoky note when grilled over medium heat. Brush fillets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a hit of lemon zest. Cook skin-side down until the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily. Garnish with dill and extra lemon wedges for brightness.

16. Deviled Eggs Trio

Hard-boiled eggs become party favorites with a little creativity. Mash yolks with mayo, Dijon, and a splash of pickle juice for tang, then pipe the filling back into the whites. Divide the batch and top with classic paprika, smoky bacon, or briny olives. The variety disappears fast, so make extra.

17. Classic Hot Dogs with Toppings Bar

Hot dogs keep guests happy while bigger dishes finish cooking. Grill beef or turkey franks until they blister slightly, then tuck into soft buns. Set out toppings like mustard, relish, diced onions, and sauerkraut so everyone can customize. Chili and shredded cheese elevate things even further.

18. Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad adds a pop of color to the table. Baby spinach forms a tender base for sweet berries, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds. Whisk balsamic vinegar with olive oil and a hint of maple syrup for an easy dressing. The combination is light, bright, and quick to assemble.

19. Beer Brats with Onions

Simmering brats in beer before grilling infuses them with malty flavor. Brown sliced onions in butter, add the sausages and a bottle of lager, then cook until the brats are nearly done. Finish on the grill to crisp the casings. Serve with the sweet onions piled on top.

20. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Cauliflower makes a surprisingly satisfying wing alternative. Coat florets in a light batter, roast until crispy, then toss in warm buffalo sauce. The result offers plenty of spice without the meat. Provide cool ranch or blue cheese dip to soothe the heat.

21. Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Bruschetta shines when tomatoes are at their juiciest. Dice ripe tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, garlic, and chopped basil, and let the mixture sit so flavors mingle. Spoon onto grilled or oven-toasted bread rubbed with garlic. A splash of balsamic brings gentle acidity.

22. BBQ Baked Beans

Baked beans are a cookout classic that can simmer unattended for hours. Start with canned navy beans, onion, molasses, brown sugar, and a smokey barbecue sauce. Add diced bacon or keep them vegetarian with a dash of smoked paprika. Serve straight from the slow cooker so they stay warm and thick.

23. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Bite-sized chicken thighs soak up teriyaki like sponges. Marinate cubes in soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic for at least an hour. Thread onto skewers and grill until caramelized. A sprinkle of sesame seeds delivers crunch and nuttiness.

24. Grilled Pineapple Rings

Grilling caramelizes pineapple’s natural sugars, intensifying its sweetness. Brush rings with a touch of honey mixed with lime juice, then grill over medium heat until lightly charred. Serve as a side, dessert topper, or burger garnish. The smoky-sweet flavor brightens any plate.

25. Jalapeño Poppers

Stuffed peppers bring heat, creaminess, and crunch in a single bite. Halve jalapeños lengthwise, remove seeds, and fill with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Wrap each half with a thin strip of bacon and bake until the bacon crisps. The mix of spicy and rich is addicting.

26. Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Small cubes of sirloin sear quickly, making them ideal for party snacking. Heat a cast-iron pan until screaming hot, then cook the steak in batches for a deep crust. Finish with melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Toothpicks turn the dish into effortless finger food.

27. Mediterranean Hummus Platter

This platter offers a cool, healthy contrast to heavier mains. Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until silky smooth. Swirl the hummus into a shallow bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Arrange fresh veggies and pita around the edge for easy dipping.

28. Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto dresses pasta without becoming greasy or heavy. Combine cooked fusilli with homemade or jarred basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and slivers of Parmesan. A splash of red wine vinegar keeps the flavors lively. This salad tastes even better after a short rest in the fridge.

29. S’mores Dip

Capture campfire nostalgia without leaving the kitchen. Layer chocolate chips and mini marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet, then bake until the chocolate melts and the marshmallows brown. Scoop with graham crackers for gooey perfection. It disappears almost as quickly as traditional s’mores.

30. Chili-Lime Corn Salad

This salad turns leftover corn into a zesty side. Cut kernels from grilled cobs and toss with diced red pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder. Feta or cotija cheese adds creamy tang. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside tacos or burgers.

31. Blueberry Lemonade

Fruit-infused lemonade quenches thirst on steamy afternoons. Simmer blueberries with sugar and water to create a jewel-toned syrup, then strain and mix with fresh lemon juice and cold water. Serve over plenty of ice for maximum chill. Kids love the color, adults appreciate the natural sweetness.

32. Veggie Quesadillas

Crispy tortillas stuffed with vegetables deliver quick satisfaction. Cook bell peppers, onions, and zucchini until tender, then layer with cheese between flour tortillas. Grill on a lightly oiled skillet until each side turns golden. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole.

33. Ranch Pasta Salad

Packed with familiar flavors, this salad wins over picky eaters. Toss cooked shells with bottled or homemade ranch, frozen peas, diced carrots, and crispy bacon. Chill for at least 30 minutes so the dressing thickens. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

34. Honey Garlic Glazed Ribs

Sticky-sweet ribs feel like a holiday splurge yet remain easy to prepare. Season ribs with a dry rub, wrap in foil, and bake low and slow until tender. Brush with a glaze of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic, then finish under the broiler or on the grill for caramelized edges. The meat slides off the bone with minimal effort.

35. Greek Orzo Salad

Orzo makes a refreshing change from larger noodles. Combine the tiny pasta with crunchy cucumbers, tangy olives, and salty feta. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano for Mediterranean flair. It packs well for picnics and tastes great straight from the cooler.

36. Chocolate Brownie Sundaes

End the meal on a decadent note. Bake a batch of chewy brownies, then cut into large squares while still slightly warm. Top each piece with a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge. Crushed nuts or sprinkles add texture and fun.

37. Sesame Ginger Slaw

Asian-inspired slaw brings bright flavor without mayo. Whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger into a light dressing. Toss with cabbage, carrots, and scallions, then let it sit for at least 15 minutes so the veggies soften slightly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for crunch.

38. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Meaty portobellos can stand in for burgers or act as a hearty side. Remove the stems, brush with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Grill cap-side down first, then flip until tender and juicy. Stack on buns with cheese or slice and add to salads.

39. Iced Tea Pitcher

A pitcher of iced tea keeps everyone refreshed between bites. Steep black tea bags in hot water, sweeten lightly while warm, then chill thoroughly. Add lemon slices and lots of ice before serving. Mint leaves lend an extra cooling note if you have them.

40. Roasted Red Pepper Dip

This dip brings smoky sweetness to the appetizer spread. Purée jarred roasted peppers with cream cheese, garlic, and a dash of cayenne until smooth. Chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors marry. Scoop with pita chips, carrots, or celery sticks.

41. Cheddar Stuffed Burgers

Surprise guests with gooey cheese hidden in the center of each burger. Form two thin patties, place a cube of cheddar between them, and seal the edges tightly. Grill over medium heat until the cheese melts and the beef cooks through. Rest the burgers briefly so molten cheddar doesn’t escape in a rush.

42. Mojito Fruit Salad

This fruit salad borrows mint-lime notes from the famous cocktail but contains no alcohol. Cube assorted melons and pineapple, add sliced strawberries, and toss with lime juice, zest, and chopped mint. A touch of honey enhances natural sweetness. Serve well chilled for maximum refreshment.

43. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Creamy, cheesy dip disappears fast at gatherings. Mix chopped artichokes, thawed spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Bake until hot and bubbly, then serve with crackers or sliced baguette. Leftovers reheat well in the microwave—if you have any.

44. Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs

Bone-in thighs stay juicy and flavorful. Whisk maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and garlic, then marinate the chicken for at least an hour. Grill or roast until the internal temperature reaches 175°F and the skin turns crisp. The sweet-savory glaze pairs well with roasted vegetables.

45. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Slow-roasted garlic transforms humble potatoes into a silky side. Roast whole garlic heads in foil until soft, then squeeze the cloves into hot boiled potatoes. Mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. The subtle sweetness of roasted garlic keeps diners coming back for seconds.

46. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Young jackfruit mimics pulled pork yet stays plant-based. Drain and rinse canned jackfruit, then simmer with onions, spices, and barbecue sauce until it shreds easily. Pile onto soft buns and top with crunchy slaw for contrast. Meat-eaters often ask for the recipe after a single bite.

47. Coconut Rice

Creamy coconut rice partners nicely with spicy dishes. Replace half the water with coconut milk when cooking jasmine rice, and stir in a pinch of salt and sugar. Once tender, fluff with a fork and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes if desired. The subtle sweetness balances bold flavors on the plate.

48. Layered Taco Dip

This crowd-pleaser assembles in minutes and disappears almost as fast. Spread refried beans in a shallow dish, then add seasoned sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, and sliced olives. Chill for an hour so the layers set. Serve with sturdy tortilla chips for scooping.

49. Cherry Hand Pies

Individual pies make dessert portable and mess-free. Spoon cherry pie filling onto small rounds of pastry, fold, crimp, and vent with a fork. Bake until the crusts turn flaky and golden. A quick sprinkle of coarse sugar adds sparkle and crunch.

50. Sparkling Cucumber Mint Water

Offer a non-sweet option that still feels festive. Combine chilled sparkling water with thin cucumber rounds and fresh mint, then let it infuse for at least 15 minutes. The result is crisp, cool, and lightly aromatic. Keep extra ice nearby so the bubbles stay lively.