July 4th is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some classic BBQ favorites. If you’re looking to impress your guests and add some delicious dishes to your celebration, this collection of make-ahead recipes has got you covered. From mouthwatering ribs to tasty sides, these easy-to-prepare dishes will make your Independence Day BBQ a hit without the last-minute stress.
Contents
- 1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
- 2. Smoky BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
- 3. Classic Macaroni and Cheese Bake
- 4. Zesty Coleslaw with Crunchy Veggies
- 5. Sizzling Grilled Sausages with Peppers
- 6. Honey-Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs
- 7. Tender Brisket Cooked to Perfection
- 8. Classic Potato Salad with a Twist
- 9. Spicy BBQ Shrimp Skewers
- 10. Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta
- 11. Classic BBQ Sauce for All Your Grilling Needs
- 12. Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Reduction
- 13. Baked Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer classic that everyone loves. Slather it with herb butter for a fresh twist that brightens up the flavor. Just grill, spread, and enjoy at your July 4th barbecue!
2. Smoky BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
These smoky BBQ ribs are a crowd-pleaser for any July 4th gathering. Slathered in a rich, homemade sauce, they’re tender and bursting with flavor. Make them ahead of time, and watch your friends and family come back for seconds!
3. Classic Macaroni and Cheese Bake
Nothing says comfort like a warm, cheesy macaroni bake. This classic dish is creamy, rich, and perfect for feeding a crowd at your July 4th gathering. Make it ahead of time, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about on the big day!
4. Zesty Coleslaw with Crunchy Veggies
Coleslaw is a classic side that pairs perfectly with BBQ. This version is packed with crunchy veggies, making it both colorful and tasty. Prepare it a day ahead for a refreshing dish that everyone will love at your July 4th cookout.
5. Sizzling Grilled Sausages with Peppers
Grilled sausages with colorful peppers make for a fun and tasty dish at your July 4th BBQ. Just toss your favorite sausages on the grill, and let them sizzle alongside some sliced bell peppers. This simple recipe brings vibrant flavors to your gathering and is perfect for making ahead of time!
6. Honey-Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs
These honey-glazed BBQ chicken thighs are the perfect make-ahead dish for your July 4th celebration. Juicy and packed with flavor, they come together easily and can be marinated overnight. Just throw them on the grill for a tasty treat that everyone will love!
7. Tender Brisket Cooked to Perfection
This tender brisket is a must for your July 4th BBQ. With its smoky flavor and juicy texture, it’s sure to impress your guests. Prep it ahead of time for a stress-free celebration!
8. Classic Potato Salad with a Twist
This potato salad takes a classic dish and gives it a fun twist! With colorful cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of paprika, it’s not just tasty but also eye-catching. Perfect for your July 4th BBQ, this dish will be a hit at any summer gathering!
9. Spicy BBQ Shrimp Skewers
Spicy BBQ shrimp skewers are a must-have for your July 4th cookout. These tasty bites are easy to prep ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day with friends and family. Just marinate the shrimp, skewer them up, and grill when you’re ready for a delicious kick!
10. Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta
This watermelon salad is a real crowd-pleaser for your July 4th BBQ. With juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and fresh mint, it’s light and refreshing. Perfect for those hot summer days, this dish can be made ahead and will brighten up any picnic table!
11. Classic BBQ Sauce for All Your Grilling Needs
A great BBQ sauce can elevate any meal. This classic BBQ sauce is tangy and rich, perfect for slathering on ribs or chicken. Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld for a deliciously smooth taste.
12. Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Reduction
A grilled vegetable platter is a colorful and tasty addition to your July 4th BBQ. Toss a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes on the grill to get that smoky flavor, then drizzle with a homemade balsamic reduction for a sweet touch. This dish is easy to make ahead, allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family during the celebrations.
13. Baked Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
Baked beans with bacon and brown sugar are a must-have for any July 4th BBQ. This dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd favorite. Prepare it ahead of time, so you can enjoy the holiday without the stress of last-minute cooking!
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.
