From Burgers to BBQ: Memorial Day Picnic Food Ideas

From classic BBQs to cooling beverages, and refreshing salads to sweet desserts, here are the best Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes to make your picnic unforgettable.

Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes Pin

Food, Family, and Fun: Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes to Kick Off Summer!

It’s time to dust off your grill and find your favorite Memorial Day picnic food recipes! There’s no better way to celebrate the start of summer than by enjoying it with your loved ones.

Make your Memorial Day celebration a hit with this collection of Memorial Day picnic food recipes—a mix of both traditional and easy, innovative dishes to make your picnic a hit!

With these delicious Memorial Day picnic food recipes, you’ll host a picnic that will be unforgettable! You’re sure to impress your guests and celebrate a fantastic Memorial Day picnic!

Honor the spirit of the holiday, enjoy the flavors of summer, and make the most of your time together with your loved ones. 

Happy picnicking with a basket full of delicious food!

MORE RECIPE COLLECTIONS FOR YOU!

Picnic Perfect: Easy and Delicious Memorial Day Food Recipes


Classic Memorial Day Picnic Food 💙

A Memorial Day gathering isn’t complete without classic picnic food. Here are some favorites with a mix of traditional and unique dishes to hit the spot:

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Photo by A Farmgirl’s Dabbles

Recipe by A Farmgirl’s Dabbles

Ready in ~ 36 mins Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This tropical-inspired marinade packs a refreshing burst of flavor, simple ingredients, and extraordinary taste that are perfect for summertime grilling!

GET THE RECIPE!

Jerk Chicken Tacos
Jerk Chicken Tacos
Photo by The Modern Proper

Recipe by The Modern Proper

Ready in ~ 35 mins Yields ~ 6 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Spicy, smoky, and pineapple-loaded! These jerk tacos with grilled chicken thighs and juicy pineapple are perfect for fresh summer bite!

GET THE RECIPE!

Grilled BBQ Ribs

Grilled BBQ Ribs by The Wooden Skillet
Photo by The Wooden Skillet

Recipe by The Wooden Skillet

Prep: 15 mins Marinate: 1 hour Cook: 1 hour 15 mins

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor, these fall-off-the-bone grilled ribs are the ultimate recipe for your next cookout or backyard BBQ.

GET THE RECIPE!

Tex-Mex Hot Dogs
Photo by Homemade Home

Recipe by Homemade Home

Ready in ~ 25 mins Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a southwestern flavor fiesta!
  • loaded with vibrant colors and delicious toppings
  • easy to eat and serve
  • delicious any time of year!
  • super versatile and easily customizable

GET THE RECIPE FOR TEX MEX HOT DOGS!

Grilled BBQ Chicken
BBQ Chicken Grilled by Downshiftology
Photo by Down Shiftology

Recipe by Down Shiftology

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 20 mins, Cook Time: 1 hour

Yields ~ 6 servings (2 pieces of chicken)

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • insanely juicy and perfectly charred
  • the best kind of comfort food
  • each bite is a burst of smoky-sweet perfection
  • guaranteed to please a hungry crowd.
  • perfect for your summer cookout!

GET THE RECIPE FOR GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN!

Deviled Eggs
Deviled Eggs by The Defined Dish
Photo by The Defined Dish

Recipe for by The Defined Dish

Ready in ~ approx 30 mins

Yields ~ 24 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • the ultimate finger food
  • a delicious appetizer ready in no time
  • both elegant and easy-going
  • perfect to make ahead for any gathering
  • each bite is a flavor explosion!

GET THE RECIPE FOR DEVILED EGGS!

Buttermilk Cornbread
Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe by Damn Delicious
Photo by Damn Delicious

Recipe by Damn Delicious

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

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • the ultimate comfort food
  • soft, crumbly, and irresistible
  • a delicious companion to any meal
  • always a crowd-pleaser
  • simple yet oh-so-satisfying!

GET THE RECIPE FOR BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD!


Recipes for a Crowd 💙

Here are some crowd-pleasing picnic food recipes that’s easy to prepare in advance:

Simple Potato Salad
Photo by My Active Kitchen

Recipe by My Active Kitchen

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

Yields ~ 8 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a great recipe for summer gatherings
  • loaded with chives, light mayo, salad cream, and dill
  • have it warm or cold
  • can be whipped up ahead of time
  • an easy and delicious meal that travels well!

GET THE RECIPE FOR SIMPLE POTATO SALAD!

Corn Ribs
Mexican Corn Salad by Recipes by Tin Eats - Corn Ribs by Sprinkles and Sprouts
Photo by Sprinkles and Sprouts

Recipe by Sprinkles and Sprouts

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

Yields ~ 32 ribs

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a taste of summer on any occasion
  • cute, crispy, and fun-to-eat
  • can be barbecued, oven-baked, or cooked in the air fryer
  • drenched in a melted garlic lime butter
  • simple to make with minimal ingredients

GET THE RECIPE FOR CORN RIBS!

Heinz Copycat Baked Beans
Mexican Corn Salad by Recipes by Tin Eats - Heinz Copycat Baked Beans by Recipe by Tin Eats
Photo by Recipe by Tin Eats

Recipe by Recipe by Tin Eats

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

Yields ~ 8-10 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • nostalgic taste of Heinz Baked Beans
  • both comforting and irresistible
  • prep a big batch and store them
  • guaranteed to be a hit at any gatherings
  • sweet, savory, and downright delicious!

GET THE RECIPE FOR HEINZ COPYCAT BAKED BEANS!

Mediterranean Grilled Tofu
7. Mediterranean Grilled Tofu by Crowded Kitchen
Photo by Crowded Kitchen

Recipe by Crowded Kitchen

Ready in ~ 45 mins

Yields ~ 2 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a filling and nutritious choice
  • a guilt-free, feel-good meal
  • rich in protein and nutrients, minus the meat
  • great for a picnic or backyard BBQ
  • every bite is a flavor fiesta!

GET THE RECIPE FOR MEDITERRANEAN GRILLED TOFU!

Grilled Sausage and Vegetables
5. Grilled Sausage and Vegetables with Creamy Dill Dip by The Modern Proper
Photo 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 vibrant and nutritious meal
  • refreshing and tangy contrast with a creamy dip
  • a versatile dish for family gatherings
  • quick and straightforward recipe
  • perfect for summer cookouts, outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and more

GET THE RECIPE FOR GRILLED SAUSAGE AND VEGETABLES!

Italian Pressed Picnic Sandwiches
6. Italian Pressed Picnic Sandwiches by All Purpose Flour Child
Photo by All Purpose Flour Child

Recipe by All Purpose Flour Child

Ready in ~ approx 15 mins

Yields ~ 4 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a hassle-free recipe
  • every bite is deliciously satisfying
  • can be prepared in advance
  • perfect for picnics, hikes, or any on-the-go meal

GET THE RECIPE FOR ITALIAN PRESSED PICNIC SANDWICHES!


Cooling Beverage Ideas💙

Keep everyone happy and hydrated with this variety of refreshing drinks, with or without alcohol.

Kid Friendly Patriotic Punch
Kid-Friendly Patriotic Punch
Photo by Mom Endeavors

Recipe by Mom Endeavors

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • layers of red, white, and blue
  • uses easy-to-find ingredients
  • easily customizable with different flavors
  • quick to prepare with minimal steps
  • ready in just a few minutes

GET THE RECIPE FOR KID FRIENDLY PATRIOTIC PUNCH!

Fresh Watermelon Mojito
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Fresh Watermelon Mojito by Aberdeen’s Kitchen
Photo by Aberdeen’s Kitchen

Recipe by Aberdeen’s Kitchen

Ready in ~ 5 mins

Yields ~ 2 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • visually stunning drink
  • a natural, vibrant flavor
  • can be a daytime refreshment and a nighttime cocktail
  • easily scaled up to whip up large batches
  • hydrating and cooling on hot days!

GET THE RECIPE FOR FRESH WATERMELON MOJITO!

Old Fashioned Homemade Lemonade
Old Fashioned Homemade Lemonade by Persnickety Plates
Photo by Persnickety Plates

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 ~

  • classic beverage with simple, clean flavors
  • easy three-ingredient drink
  • straightforward and quick to prepare
  • the right amount of sweetness
  • can be easily scaled up to make large batches

GET THE RECIPE FOR OLD FASHIONED HOMEMADE LEMONADE!

Red White and Blue Sangria
4. Red White and Blue Sangria by Mighty Mrs
Photo by Mighty Mrs

Recipe by Mighty Mrs

Ready in ~ 10 mins

Yields ~ 2 liters

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • adds a patriotic touch to your gatherings
  • a delightful mix of sweetness and tanginess
  • cheaper than buying pre-made versions
  • easily adaptable to non-alcoholic version
  • perfect for hot summer days and outdoor parties

GET THE RECIPE FOR RED WHITE AND BLUE SANGRIA!

Vietnamese Lime Iced Tea (Tra Chanh Hanoi)
5. Vietnamese Lime Iced Tea (Tra Chanh Hanoi) by Takes Two Eggs Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Beverage Recipes
Photo by Takes Two Eggs

Recipe by Takes Two Eggs

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 3 mins, Chill Time: 10 mins

Yields ~ 2 servings

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • incredibly refreshing and cooling
  • needs a few basic ingredients
  • straightforward and quick to prepare
  • super versatile and easily customizable
  • universally loved drink!

GET THE RECIPE FOR VIETNAMESE ICED TEA!


Easy-to-make Desserts💙

Here are some suggestions for patriotic-themed sweet treats to end the meal:

Patriotic Oreo Pops
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Patriotic Oreo Pops by Happiness is Homemade
Photo by Happiness is Homemade

Recipe by Happiness is Homemade

Ready in ~ approx 20 mins

Yields ~ as many as you want

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a fun dessert with a splash of color
  • no hard-to-find ingredients
  • perfect for patriotic celebrations
  • easy to transport and serve
  • a hit with both kids and adults

GET THE RECIPE FOR PATRIOTIC OREO POPS!

Mini Cakes
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Mini Cakes by Hello Little Home
Photo by Hello Little Home

Recipe by Hello Little Home

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 45 mins, Cook Time: 10 mins

Yields ~ 7 mini cakes

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • a super fun, patriotic dessert idea
  • vibrant colors and cute size
  • excellent choice for picnics and outdoor gatherings
  • ideal for parties for individual servings
  • appeals to both kids and adults alike

GET THE RECIPE FOR RED, WHITE, & BLUE MINI CAKES!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Dessert Recipes
Photo by Play Party Plan

Recipe by Play Party Plan

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 45 mins

Yields ~ 24 strawberries

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • patriotic colors of red, white, and blue
  • simple to make and elegant to serve
  • a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts
  • a guilt-free indulgence
  • perfect for any patriotic-themed gatherings

GET THE RECIPE FOR CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES!

Oreo Cream Cheese Truffle
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Dessert Recipes
Photo by Easy Budget Recipes

Recipe by Easy Budget Recipes

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 60 mins

Yields ~ 12 people

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • recipe cost $13.11
  • a hassle-free dessert option
  • can be made with different Oreo flavors
  • perfect for novice cooks
  • ideal for parties or potlucks

GET THE RECIPE FOR OREO CREAM CHEESE TRUFFLES!

Red, White & Blue Cheesecake Bars
Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes - Dessert Recipes
Photo by Inside Bru Crew Life

Recipe by Inside Bru Crew Life

Ready in ~ Prep Time: 30 mins, Cook Time: 55 mins

Yields ~ 24 Cheesecake Bars

Why Everyone Will Love It ~

  • vibrant red, white, and blue layers
  • rich flavors of cheesecake with a chocolatey Oreo cookie crust
  • can be prepared in advance and chilled
  • easy portioning and serving
  • will be a hit with both kids and adults alike

GET THE RECIPE FOR CHEESECAKE BARS!


And there you have it—Memorial Day Picnic Food Recipes 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!

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Happy cooking!

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