45+ Labor Day Food Ideas for Your Backyard Bash!

End your summer with a bang! Discover delicious Labor Day food ideas perfect for your end-of-summer party. These party food recipes will make your celebration a hit!

From BBQ to Refreshing Sips: Labor Day Food Ideas to Try This Year!

As summer comes to an end and Labor Day approaches, it’s the perfect time for one last summer gathering with your loved ones. 

From sizzling grilled meats to refreshing drinks, crowd-pleasing side dishes, and fun desserts, these Labor Day food ideas will make your celebration a hit!

Why Try These Labor Day Food Ideas?

🎉 Versatile Food Ideas

Whether you’re looking for juicy burgers, smoky hot dogs, grilled meats, refreshing drinks, or delicious desserts, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find everything you need to celebrate a memorable day with your loved ones.

🎉 Bold Flavors

Each recipe, with its vibrant and delicious flavors, is sure to put everyone at your gathering in a festive mood. From smoky to spicy, fresh to sweet, these dishes will satisfy all taste buds.

🎉 Incredible Crowd-Pleasers 

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a casual get-together, each recipe is versatile enough to impress and is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.

🎉 Perfect for Outdoor Eating

This recipe roundup of Labor Day food ideas is curated with ease in mind, focusing on dishes that are simple to serve and eat with your hands, making them perfect for a Labor Day picnic or barbecue. This is always a plus at any casual gathering!

Tips for Labor Day Food Ideas

Prep Ahead of Time 📝

Hosting can be stressful, so to minimize any last-minute hiccups, prepare as much as you can in advance. Chop veggies, marinate meat, and prepare drinks and desserts the day before your gathering. This will allow you to enjoy the party without spending all your time in the kitchen.

Use Fresh Ingredients 🌽

Celebrate the end of summer with fresh seasonal produce—make sure to take advantage of all the fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, juicy fruits, and more.

Mix and Match 🔄

Keep the picky eaters in mind while planning your menu. Offer a variety of recipes to cater to different dietary preferences, and mix and match your menu with both meat and vegetarian dishes. This way, all your guests will find something they enjoy!

Grill, Chill, and Thrill: Fun Labor Day Food Ideas!


Appetizers & Side Dish Ideas

Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos

Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos Recipe by Noble Pig

Recipe by Noble Pig

Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 15 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with cheesy chips layered with seasoned rotisserie chicken and black beans, all baked to perfection on a single sheet pan. Plus, a creamy lime drizzle takes these nachos from delicious to extraordinary!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Bacon wrapped Cheeseburger Lollipops

Bacon wrapped Cheeseburger Lollipops Recipe by Mom Foodie

Recipe by Mom Foodie

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 30 mins

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ These bite-sized mini burgers are made of seasoned beef stuffed with cheese, wrapped generously in bacon, and skewered. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone at your next gathering!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Stuffed Celery Sticks

3. Stuffed Celery Sticks by Appetizer Addiction

Recipe by Appetizer Addiction

Ready in ~ 10 mins

Yields ~ approx 24 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This classic, crunchy, and satisfying snack is the perfect party appetizer for those last-minute rushes. It’s easy to make and deliciously refreshing!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Easy Salami Appetizer

Easy Salami Appetizer Recipe by BabaGanosh

Recipe by BabaGanosh

Ready in ~ 10 minutes

Yields ~ 10 servings 4 pieces each

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with just three ingredients, this simple yet flavorful appetizer will always be the first to disappear at any party.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese

Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese by A Farm Girls Dabbles

Recipe by A Farm Girls Dabbles

Ready in ~ 30 minutes

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Colorful mini peppers are grilled to perfection and filled with tangy, smooth goat cheese. These bites are simple to prepare and come together in 30 minutes with just three easy steps!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Seasoned Tater Tots

Seasoned Tater Tots Recipe by Bites with Bri

Recipe by Bites with Bri

Ready in ~ Prep: 5 mins, Cook: 30 mins

Yields ~ 10 people

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these seasoned-to-perfection tater tots are the perfect addition to any party snack table.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Pinwheels

Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Pinwheels by The Two Bite Club

Recipe by The Two Bite Club

Ready in ~ 15 minutes

Yields ~ 8 servings – 3 pieces per serving

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A classic favorite with a twist—all the flavors of a BLT sandwich in a pinwheel appetizer! Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, with a spread of cream cheese and mayo, all rolled up in a soft tortilla. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Ginger Chicken Salad 

Ginger Chicken Salad Recipe by Perry's Plate

Recipe by Perry’s Plate

Ready in ~ 20 mins

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Incredibly quick to make but amazingly delicious, this salad features tender shredded chicken tossed with fresh veggies and a zesty ginger dressing. It can be served as a side dish with a variety of mains.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Chipotle Roasted Corn Salsa

Chipotle Roasted Corn Salsa

Recipe by House of Yumm

Ready in ~ 10 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Enjoy this simple, smoky, and tangy Chipotle classic salsa made with fresh, juicy corn, roasted jalapeño, red onion, and lots of diced cilantro, all seasoned with fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. It’s incredibly easy to make at home and a crowd-pleaser!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Farmer’s Market Salad

Vegan Farmer’s Market Salad

Recipe by Simply Veganista

Ready in ~ 15 mins

Yields ~ 2-3 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A fresh and delicious salad made with vibrant seasonal summer ingredients like sweet corn, crisp zucchini, and colorful bell pepper, all tossed in a tangy sun-dried tomato vinaigrette. Perfect for celebrating the end of summer!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

BLT Dip

BLT Dip

Recipe by Yellow Bliss Road

Ready in ~ Total Time: 10 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~  Made with a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy shredded romaine lettuce. It is sure to be a hit at family gatherings, parties, or potlucks!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Easy Pico de Gallo Recipe

Pico de Gallo Recipe by Downshiftology

Recipe by Downshiftology

Ready in ~ 15 minutes

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with fresh ingredients like diced Roma tomatoes, finely chopped serrano pepper or jalapeño, diced white onion, zesty lime juice, and herby cilantro, every bite of this zesty salsa delivers a burst of zingy citrusy flavor!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Chef Salad Sticks

Chef Salad Sticks

Recipe by Cupcakes and Kale Chips

Ready in ~ approx 10 mins

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A fun and easy-to-make skewer appetizer made with savory meats, crisp veggies, and more. Salad on a stick is the perfect party appetizer.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Antipasto Wreath

Antipasto Wreath

Recipe by Averie Cooks

Ready in ~ 20 mins

Yields ~ 10 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A fun and festive appetizer! Made with skewered salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, and more amazing ingredients. Your guests are guaranteed to love it!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Chicken Taco Salad

Chicken Taco Salad

Recipe by Ambitious Kitchen

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with all the good stuff – seasoned ground chicken, savory cheese, and fresh corn, all drizzled with a refreshing cilantro vinaigrette.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Labour Day Party Main Dishes

Rotisserie Chicken Tacos

Rotisserie Chicken Tacos Recipe by Tried and True Recipe

Recipe by Tried and True Recipe

Ready in ~ 1 hour

Yields ~ 6 servings (2 tacos each) 

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Whip up some tasty tacos with leftover rotisserie chicken. Packed with juicy chicken, roasted potatoes, crunchy slaw, and a creamy avocado sauce, this quick and easy dish is ideal for a fun and filling party food idea!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese Recipe by Baker by Nature

Recipe by Baker by Nature

Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 35 mins

Yields ~ 1 9×13-inch pan

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A spicy twist to mac and cheese with shredded rotisserie chicken, Buffalo sauce, bacon, and a delicious cheese sauce. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy your rotisserie chicken.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Best Chicken Pizza

Best Chicken Pizza Recipe by Foxes Love Lemons

Recipe by Foxes Love Lemons

Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 14 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This Rotisserie Chicken Pizza comes together in about 30 minutes and can be made in either a grill or oven. It’s a delightful way to feed a crowd at a party!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Dogs

Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Dogs

Recipe by Little Sunny Kitchen

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cook Time: 5 mins

Yields ~ 12 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A spicy twist on a classic favorite! Tender, juicy hot dogs are coated in a crispy cornmeal batter with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños, then fried to golden perfection!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Recipe by Be Centsational

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 5 minutes, Cook Time: 6 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Juicy, zesty shrimp skewers with smoky, charred flavor. Easy to make and packed with delicious, bold flavors!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas 

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas Recipe by The Defined Dish

Recipe by The Defined Dish

Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 15 mins

Yields ~ 3 servings 

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh veggies, and quick-pickled onions, all topped with guacamole, this easy and fun recipe is the perfect party food recipe!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe by Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Recipe by Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Ready in ~ 25 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings 

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Make the most of your leftover rotisserie chicken with this vibrant dish made with tender chicken, sweet and smoky street corn, creamy avocado, and crunchy peppers, all doused in a chili-lime dressing.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Mini Chilli Cheese Dog Bake

Mini Chilli Cheese Dog Bake Recipe by Real House Moms

Recipe by Real House Moms

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook Time: 30 mins

Yields ~ 12 Mini Hot Dog Bakes

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A fun and creative recipe for perfectly bite-sized dogs! Made with fresh mini bun, hot dog pieces, topped with a spoonful of homemade chili, and sprinkled with cheese. Super easy to make, absolutely delicious, and the greatest snack ever!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Grilled Wisconsin Beer Brats

Grilled Wisconsin Beer Brats

Recipe by Plays Well With Butter

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 30 mins

Yields ~ 4 Hot Dogs

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This low-effort, high-reward hot dog recipe is made by marinating bratwurst sausages overnight in beer, then chargrilling them to a crisp, crusty texture along with onions and other seasonings. It’s the easiest grilled beer brats recipe!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Teriyaki Pina Colada Burger [+ Video]

Teriyaki Pina Colada Burger

Recipe by Oh Sweet Basil

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It  ~ This tropical-flavored beef burger is made with the juiciest beef patty and topped with grilled pineapple slices, crispy bacon bits, and a special pina colada sauce.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Recipe by The Recipe Critic

Ready in ~ Prep: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 10 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It  ~ Made with peppers, fresh pineapple & red onions, all doused with the very best homemade Hawaiian teriyaki sauce. Get a taste of a Hawaiian vacation right in your backyard!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Grilled Sausage and Vegetables

Grilled Sausage and Vegetables with Creamy Dill Dip by The Modern Proper

Recipe by The Modern Proper

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 10 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A quick, refreshing, and tangy grilled sausages and veggies dish, contrasted with a creamy dip. Perfect for summer cookouts, outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and more!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Chipotle Copycat Pollo Asado

Chipotle Copycat Pollo Asado

Recipe by Fed by Sab

Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 15 mins

Yields ~ 6 servings

Enjoy the vibrant blend of citrus, garlic, and spices with this Chipotle Pollo Asado copycat recipe, restaurant-quality food at your party. Juicy and flavorful grilled chicken that everyone will fall in love with!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Labor Day Party Drink Ideas

Old Fashioned Homemade Lemonade

Old Fashioned Homemade Lemonade

Recipe by Persnickety Plates

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 10 mins, Chill Time: 1 hour

Yields ~ 2 quarts

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A classic beverage with simple, clean flavors, made with just three simple ingredients. It can be easily scaled up to make large batches.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Fresh Watermelon Mojito

Fresh Watermelon Mojito by Aberdeen’s Kitchen

Recipe by Aberdeen’s Kitchen

Ready in ~ 5 mins

Yields ~ 2 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A visually stunning drink with a natural, vibrant flavor. It can be both a daytime refreshment and a nighttime cocktail!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Patriotic Coconut Rum Slushy Cocktail

Patriotic Coconut Rum Slushy Cocktail by Sugar Spice and Glitter

Recipe by Sugar Spice and Glitter

Ready in ~ 15 minutes

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This vibrant, frozen drink layers red, white, and blue slushie is the ultimate summer party drink that will wow your guests!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Blue Cocktail for Parties (3 Ingredients)

Blue Cocktail for Parties (3 Ingredients) Recipe by Celebrations at Home

Recipe by Celebrations at Home

Ready in ~ 3 minutes

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A festive blue cocktail for a patriotic theme party! Refreshing, on-theme, and delicious, it’s the ultimate summer party drink that will wow your guests!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Kid Friendly Patriotic Punch

Kid-Friendly Patriotic Punch

Recipe by Mom Endeavors

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This quick to prepare with minimal steps kid friendly drink with layers of red, white, and blue is easily customizable with different flavors!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Labor Day Party Dessert Ideas


Patriotic Poke Cake 

Patriotic Poke Cake Recipe by Sweet and Savory Meals

Recipe by Sweet and Savory Meals

Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 30 mins

Yields ~ 16 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A patriotic masterpiece with layers of juicy berries and creamy frosting. It will definitely be a crowd-pleaser and an instant hit at any gathering!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Red White and Blue Jello Shots

Red White and Blue Jello Shots Recipe by Dinner at the Zoo

Recipe by Dinner at the Zoo

Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Chill: 3 hours

Yields ~ 22 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Made with layers of condensed milk, strawberry, berry gelatins, whipped cream, and patriotic-themed sprinkles. You can make them with or without alcohol. Perfect for both adults and kids alike!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Oreo Cream Cheese Balls 

Oreo Cream Cheese Balls Recipe by Adore Foods

Recipe by Adore Foods

Ready in ~ Prep: 1 hour, Chill: 2 hours

Yields ~ 30 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Enjoy a burst of sweet and creamy flavors in a bite-sized sweet treat with a patriotic twist. These Cream Cheese Balls by Adore Foods are a fun dessert to share with friends and family.

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Red White and Blue Oreo Dessert Trifle 

Red White and Blue Oreo Dessert Trifle Recipe by The Cards We Drew

Recipe by The Cards We Drew

Ready in ~ 30 mins

Yields ~ 10 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Wow your loved ones with this Red, White, and Blue Trifle. This sweet treat will impress your guests and leave them craving more!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Patriotic Chocolate Chip Cookies 

Patriotic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe by Cookies and Cups

Recipe by Cookies and Cups

Ready in ~ 24 mins

Yields ~ 24 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Turn your ordinary chocolate chip cookies into a patriotic treat. And the best part? You can make 24 cookies in 24 minutes!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Flag Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake

Classic 9×13 Flag Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake Recipe by Life Love and Sugar

Recipe by Life Love and Sugar 

Ready in ~ Prep: 1 hour 15 mins, Cook: 30 mins

Yields ~ 15-18 Slices

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake decorated with red, white, and blue buttercream frosting to resemble the iconic American flag. A pretty straightforward recipe with easy-to-follow steps is perfect for even beginner bakers!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Black Forest Cupcakes 

Black Forest Cupcakes Recipe by Barley and Sage

Recipe by Barley and Sage

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 30 mins, Cook Time: 20 mins

Yields ~ 12 cupcakes

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This rich chocolate cupcake, filled with a cherry Kirsch compote and topped with whipped cream, is a delightful twist on the traditional Black Forest cake. It’s perfect for any occasion as a special treat!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

Homemade Cherry Pie

Recipe by House of Nash Eats

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 20 mins, Cook Time: 45 mins

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Buttery, golden, and perfectly flaky pie with beautiful lattice top and vibrant red filling. Perfect dessert for holidays and special occasions!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!


And there you have it – Labour Day Food Ideas for you to try!

Thank you for taking the time to read the post! ❤️

I really hope you give one of the recipes a try and love it! Don’t forget to leave a star rating ★ in the comment section below. Your feedback will help others and also means a lot!

Connect with ‘Kurry Kitchen’ on InstagramFacebookYouTube, and Pinterest, and don’t forget to hit that follow button.

Don’t forget to PIN your favorite RECIPES to your PINTEREST board! 📌

Happy cooking! 

MORE RECIPE COLLECTIONS:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also like...