23 Cookout Recipes for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend usually means extra chairs on the patio and more people than expected around the table. These 23 recipes cover grilled mains, burgers, sliders, fresh slaws, vegetable sides, and hearty make-ahead dishes that work well together. Some go straight onto the grill, while others can be prepared in advance and set out as guests arrive. Together, they make it much easier to feed a hungry crowd all weekend long.

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing. — Fresh Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side. — Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Marinated with chipotle peppers, garlic, and seasonings, Chipotle Grilled Chicken brings smoky heat to the Memorial Day menu without requiring much prep. Boneless chicken cooks over the grill until lightly charred outside and juicy in the center. It fits this roundup because it offers a dependable main dish that pairs naturally with coleslaw, baked beans, and grilled vegetables. Slice it for sandwiches or serve whole with your favorite backyard sides.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Charred Grilled Potatoes

A bowl of roasted potato chunks garnished with chopped herbs and black pepper. — Charred Grilled Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tossed with oil and seasonings, Charred Grilled Potatoes develop crisp edges and tender centers directly on the grill. Potatoes add a hearty side that pairs well with burgers, chicken, salmon, and ribs. This recipe belongs in the collection because it uses inexpensive ingredients and frees up oven space during a busy holiday weekend. Serve them hot with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a simple but substantial side dish.
Get the Recipe: Charred Grilled Potatoes

Flaky Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings. — Flaky Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooked until tender and lightly charred, Flaky Grilled Salmon adds a lighter main dish to the Memorial Day spread. The grill gives the fish a smoky finish while keeping the center moist and delicate. This recipe fits the roundup because it broadens the menu beyond burgers and hot dogs while still feeling substantial. Serve it with grilled asparagus, coleslaw, or pasta salad for a balanced outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Grilled Salmon

Beef Kabobs with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled meat and vegetable skewers with zucchini, red onion, and red bell pepper, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate. — Beef Kabobs with Chimichurri Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Threaded onto skewers and finished with a bright herb sauce, Beef Kabobs with Chimichurri Sauce are easy to portion and serve to a larger group. The beef cooks quickly over high heat, while parsley, garlic, and vinegar bring freshness to every bite. This recipe belongs here because it delivers strong flavor without complicated prep. Serve the kabobs with grilled potatoes or fresh pasta salad.
Get the Recipe: Beef Kabobs with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice. — Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seasoned with Thai-inspired ingredients, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers add variety to the Memorial Day menu while staying practical for outdoor cooking. The chicken cooks quickly on skewers, making it easy for guests to grab and eat. This recipe fits the title because it brings bold flavor and simple serving to a backyard gathering. Pair it with Asian slaw for a crisp and colorful plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Grilled Tri Tip

Sliced medium-rare steak arranged on a wooden board, topped with a green herb sauce. — Grilled Tri Tip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A well-seasoned Grilled Tri Tip produces generous slices of beef that can feed several people from a single roast. The grill creates a flavorful crust while the center stays tender and juicy. It earns its place in this roundup because it works especially well when Memorial Day dinner needs to satisfy a larger crowd. Slice it thinly and serve with chimichurri, grilled vegetables, and coleslaw.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Tri Tip

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Shredded cabbage and a tangy dressing make Red Cabbage Coleslaw a crisp side that balances rich grilled meats. The vibrant color brightens the buffet table, while the crunchy texture adds contrast to burgers, ribs, and pulled pork. This recipe belongs in the collection because it can be made ahead and tastes even better after chilling. Serve it alongside sandwiches or piled directly onto sliders.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing. — Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with shredded vegetables and a tangy dressing, Asian Slaw brings freshness and crunch to the Memorial Day spread. The crisp texture pairs especially well with grilled chicken, pork, and skewers. This recipe fits the roundup because it holds up well in the refrigerator and can be prepared in advance. Serve it as a side dish or as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Cheeseburger

Built with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and classic toppings, this Cheeseburger remains one of the most dependable Memorial Day mains. The patties cook quickly, and guests can customize them with lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. It belongs here because no backyard cookout feels complete without at least one burger option. Serve with grilled potatoes, coleslaw, and baked beans.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Oven Baked Ribs

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions. — Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooked until tender and coated with barbecue sauce, Oven Baked Ribs deliver big flavor even when grill space is limited. The meat becomes rich and easy to pull from the bone after a long bake. This recipe fits the title because it provides a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that can be prepared indoors. Serve with coleslaw and Hawaiian baked beans for a classic holiday plate.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture. — Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Baked together in one batch, Cheeseburger Sliders make it easy to feed several guests at once. The smaller portions are especially useful when the menu includes many mains and sides. This recipe belongs in the roundup because it offers familiar burger flavor in a party-friendly format. Serve them warm with pickles, chips, and a big bowl of coleslaw.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Beetroot and Halloumi Salad

Sliced halloumi cheese, beets and greens in a white ceramic bowl. — Beetroot and Halloumi Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Roasted beets and grilled halloumi give Beetroot and Halloumi Salad enough substance to stand confidently alongside the burgers, ribs, and grilled chicken on your Memorial Day table. The earthy sweetness of the beets contrasts nicely with the salty cheese, while fresh greens add another layer of texture. This recipe belongs in the roundup because it can be prepared ahead and served chilled or at room temperature, making it especially practical for a long holiday weekend.
Get the Recipe: Beetroot and Halloumi Salad

Coleslaw

Shredded cabbage and a creamy dressing make Coleslaw one of the most dependable side dishes for Memorial Day weekend. The cool, crisp texture balances smoky ribs, juicy burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches, while the tangy dressing cuts through richer foods. This recipe fits the title because it can be made ahead and tucked into the refrigerator until guests arrive. Serve it beside grilled mains or spoon it directly onto sandwiches and sliders.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Threaded with colorful vegetables, Grilled Veggie Kabobs add smoky flavor and vibrant color to the holiday spread. The vegetables become tender with lightly charred edges that pair well with grilled meats and fish. This recipe fits the roundup because it offers a practical vegetable side that cooks right alongside the mains. Serve them hot off the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Tandoori Gobi Tikka

A platter of fried cauliflower bites garnished with lemon slices and fresh cilantro. — Tandoori Gobi Tikka. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Coated in yogurt, garlic, and warm spices, Tandoori Gobi Tikka turns cauliflower into flavorful skewered bites with crisp, charred edges. The bold seasoning adds variety to a Memorial Day menu filled with burgers and barbecue. This recipe fits this roundup because it can be grilled outdoors and served as either a side dish or a meat-free option. Pair it with slaw or chutney for a colorful and memorable addition to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Gobi Tikka

Charred Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves. — Charred Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Quick-cooking Charred Grilled Asparagus adds a simple vegetable side that is ready in just a few minutes. The spears become tender while retaining a slight snap and a smoky finish from the grill. This recipe belongs here because it uses minimal ingredients and pairs equally well with salmon, chicken, steak, and burgers. Serve it hot with lemon wedges for a bright side that helps round out the Memorial Day table.
Get the Recipe: Charred Grilled Asparagus

Charred Grilled Peppers

Grilled red and yellow bell peppers with char marks, topped with crumbled feta cheese and garnished with herbs. — Charred Grilled Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet bell peppers become tender and lightly smoky in Charred Grilled Peppers, creating a colorful side that works with nearly every main dish on the menu. Their natural sweetness balances hearty meats and rich barbecue sauces. This recipe fits the roundup because it cooks quickly and can be served warm or at room temperature. Add them to burger buns, sandwiches, or platters of grilled chicken and steak.
Get the Recipe: Charred Grilled Peppers

Hamburger Soup

A bowl of ground meat stew with potatoes, peas, carrots, and herbs in a rich broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Hamburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, and vegetables turn Hamburger Soup into a hearty option for cooler Memorial Day evenings. The broth stretches the ingredients into a large pot that can feed several people with very little fuss. This recipe belongs here because it can simmer indoors while the grill is busy outside. Serve it with cornbread or rolls when the holiday weekend weather turns unexpectedly chilly.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Soup

Hawaiian Baked Beans

Sweet pineapple and robust beans make Hawaiian Baked Beans a substantial side that pairs naturally with ribs, burgers, and pulled pork. The combination of beans and fruit adds both sweetness and staying power to the plate. This recipe fits the title because it can be prepared ahead and reheated just before serving. Spoon it beside any grilled main for a classic cookout pairing with a tropical twist.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background. — Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy chicken breast and spicy sauce turn this Homemade KFC Zinger Burger into a strong alternative to traditional beef burgers. The crunchy coating and soft bun make it especially appealing for guests who want another handheld option. This recipe belongs in the roundup because it adds variety while still fitting naturally into a backyard cookout. Serve it with coleslaw, chips, and cold drinks for a crowd-pleasing Memorial Day meal.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

A close-up of a pulled pork sandwich on a soft bun, filled with shredded, saucy pork. — Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cooked until tender and easy to shred, Instant Pot Pulled Pork produces generous portions with very little active work. The pork can be piled onto buns and topped with slaw, making it especially practical for feeding a crowd. This recipe fits the roundup because it can be prepared ahead and kept warm until serving time. Set out rolls and toppings so guests can build their own sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background. — Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet rolls and tender shredded pork make Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders one of the easiest ways to feed a hungry group. Their smaller size allows guests to sample several dishes without committing to a full sandwich. This recipe belongs here because it combines make-ahead convenience with broad crowd appeal. Serve the sliders warm with coleslaw and baked beans as part of the Memorial Day spread.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Fresh Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Loaded with pasta and grilled vegetables, Fresh Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies adds a make-ahead side that holds up well throughout the day. The vegetables bring smoky flavor, while the pasta adds enough substance to feed a larger group. It rounds out this collection by providing a dependable dish that pairs with every grilled main. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies