10 Memorial Day Cookout Recipes That Bring Back Childhood Summers
As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a cookout full of classic dishes that take you right back to childhood? From smoky grilled favorites to sweet treats that taste like long weekends and sunshine, these recipes are all about good food, good company, and the simple joys of summer. Fire up the grill, gather your favorites, and get ready for a delicious trip down memory lane.
Baked Potato Wedges
Golden and crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—these salty baked potato wedges are the ultimate side. Just toss russet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast, and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato Wedges
Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Bright lemon and juicy blueberries bring bold flavor to these soft, chewy cookies. A touch of cornmeal adds a subtle crunch and a uniquely delicious texture.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Cookies
BBQ Burgers
These juicy, flavor-packed burgers are topped with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a super simple secret sauce that takes them over the top. You’ll want to grill these all summer long.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Burgers
Southern Fried Corn
Sweet corn kernels sautéed to perfection make this Southern-style side dish a comforting, flavorful addition to any meal. Simple ingredients and big taste.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Corn
Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Cool, crunchy, and coated in a creamy dressing, this coleslaw is a backyard BBQ essential. Serve it as a refreshing side or pile it high on sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
This tangy pasta salad blends dill, mayo, sour cream, and a splash of pickle juice for a bold, briny bite. It’s a standout side dish or an easy lunch that packs flavor in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Homemade Lemonade
Made with just a few fresh ingredients, this bright and zesty lemonade is the ultimate thirst-quencher on a hot day. A classic drink that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lemonade
Easy BBQ Baked Beans
Hearty, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet—these BBQ baked beans made with canned beans and crispy bacon are a no-fuss, flavor-packed side dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy BBQ Baked Beans
Mom's Potato Salad
Creamy, tangy, and straight from mom’s recipe box, this potato salad is a party favorite that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and every gathering in between.
Get the Recipe: Mom's Potato Salad
Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding Cups
Layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream, and crunchy Nilla Wafers come together in individual cups for a fun and portable dessert everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding Cups
