15 Easy Memorial Day Recipes for Your Backyard BBQ

Nothing marks the official start of grilling season like Memorial Day weekend. It’s the ultimate excuse to fire up the barbecue, get together in the garden with friends and slow down for an afternoon. It doesn’t need to be hard work, which is why I’ve rounded up 15 easy Memorial Day recipes for your backyard barbecue that are high in flavor but low in stress.

Red White and Blue Cheeseburger

This juicy beef burger is topped with roasted red peppers and a duo of white and blue cheeses for a patriotic twist on a courtly classic. Get the recipe.

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic and Basil

Lightly charred and sweet, whole cobs are brushed with flavorful garlic butter and finished with salty parmesan. A final touch of fresh basil creates a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish. Get the recipe.

Grilled Vegetable Panini

Grilled with a slight crunch, this grilled vegetarian sandwich features melted cheese, tender eggplant, peppers and zucchini. A layer of sun-dried tomato pesto adds a flavorful finish, making this a satisfying, flavor-packed option for kids and vegetarians. Get the recipe.

Grilled teriyaki chicken skewers

The best grilled chicken of summer. Marinated in a four-ingredient teriyaki sauce, these skewers are the ultimate grilling staple. Threaded onto skewers and charred to perfection, they deliver a flavorful, caramelized finish. Get the recipe.

Red, white and blue cupcakes

Red velvet cupcakes serve as the base for a festive piping of red, white and blue icing (like fireworks). These eye-catching treats offer a light cocoa flavor and a patriotic look perfect for your summer party. Get the recipe.

Asian-style grilled mushrooms

A quick flash on the grills transforms ordinary mushrooms into deeply charred, flavorful sponges. Glazed in a quick blend of soy, garlic and honey, they come off the grill sweet, salty and completely addictive. Get the recipe.

Grilled Margherita Pizza

The pizza is always a hit and even better on the grill. a homemade crust topped with tomato sauce, melted mozzarella and fresh basil. The kids will love it! Get the recipe.

Guinness Glazed Ribs

Slow-cooked with spices to a tender finish and charred on the grill, these ribs are coated in a bold, salty-sweet Guinness glaze. The complex blend of spices and caramelized sauce create an unforgettable experience that will be the talk of the meal. Get the recipe.

Potato salad without mayonnaise

Ditch traditional mayonnaise for a tangy Dijon honey glaze that stays fresh and bright, even in the afternoon heat. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives adds a fresh aromatic finish to this crowd-pleasing Memorial Day side. Get the recipe.

Bacon Mayonnaise

Jazz up your burgers by turning leftover bacon into a delicious spread that puts store-bought condiments to shame. adding a bold, savory depth that will have your guests asking for the secret ingredient. Get the recipe.

Grilled Vegetables

A colorful platter of grilled vegetables is perfect for feeding a crowd. Mushrooms, zucchini and asparagus are great as a side or with a dip. Get the recipe.

Chocolate chip cookies

You can never go wrong with a classic, and these chocolate chip cookies are a guaranteed hit for guests of all ages. Soft, chewy and loaded with gooey chocolate chunks and sea salt, they’re the perfect on-the-go treat. Get the recipe.

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Who says you can’t grill potatoes? Partially cook them first, then grill them for an even smokier flavor. Great to serve with these burgers. Get the recipe.

Greek pasta salad

Pasta salad complements a grilled meal. This one has a Mediterranean twist with a blend of chickpeas, Kalamata olives and salty feta. All tossed in a creamy lemon vinaigrette with crunchy cucumbers and peppers. Get the recipe.

Spicy Blue Cheese Chips

An easy, no-cook appetizer or snack. Potato chips topped with blue cheese. A quick time on the grill melts the cheese into a spicy, tangy topping that delivers explosive flavor. Get the recipe.