14 Memorial Day BBQ Recipes That’ll Make You The Grill Master

14 Memorial Day BBQ Recipes That’ll Make You The Grill Master—Memorial Day is synonymous with great food, fun, and the start of summer gatherings, and what better way to celebrate than with an epic BBQ spread? These 14 BBQ recipes are your ticket to becoming the grill master of your neighborhood. From tender, smoky meats to fresh, flavorful sides, these recipes are designed to impress your guests and elevate your Memorial Day feast to new heights.

Whether you’re craving perfectly grilled ribs, juicy burgers, or mouthwatering grilled veggies, this list has something for everyone. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, these recipes will turn your BBQ into the highlight of the holiday weekend. So, fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and get ready to serve up some unforgettable BBQ goodness!

Savory Sausages with Peppers and Onions

This savory dish brings together juicy sausages, colorful peppers, and sweet onions for a perfect BBQ experience. Bursting with flavor, each bite is a delightful mix of spices and sweetness, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser for your Memorial Day gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy time with friends and family while the grill does its magic.

The combination of grilled sausages with sautéed peppers and onions creates a savory medley that’s not only satisfying but also adds a pop of color to your plate. These delicious sausages pair perfectly with a side of crusty bread or can be served in a bun for a classic BBQ feel. Get ready to impress your guests with this quick and tasty dish!

Ingredients

• 6 sausages (your choice: bratwurst, Italian, or chicken)
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Buns (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and browned.
4. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the peppers and onions to the grill. Cook them until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve the sausages on buns topped with the grilled peppers and onions, or enjoy them on their own!

Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Glaze

Grilled vegetable platters are a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ spread. Bursting with color and flavor, these veggies are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The smoky notes from grilling combined with a tangy balsamic glaze create a mouthwatering dish that’s simple to make and sure to impress your guests.

This recipe is a breeze and perfect for both seasoned grill masters and beginners alike. Just toss your favorite vegetables on the grill, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you’re good to go! It’s a great side dish or a light main course that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 small eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they have grill marks and are tender.
4. Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the grilled vegetables before serving.

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers Grilled to Perfection

These vegetarian stuffed peppers are a delightful and colorful addition to your Memorial Day BBQ. Bursting with fresh flavors, they combine hearty grains, vibrant veggies, and a mix of spices that create a satisfying and tasty dish. Plus, they’re simple to make, making them perfect for both seasoned grillers and beginners.

Grilling these peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based options to your meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down firmly. If using cheese, sprinkle on top before grilling.
4. Grill the Peppers: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the stuffed peppers upright on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Smoky BBQ Chicken Wings Glazed with Honey

Get ready for some finger-licking goodness with these smoky BBQ chicken wings glazed with honey! Perfectly cooked, these wings are a harmonious blend of smoky flavor and sweet, sticky goodness. They’re incredibly easy to make, making them a hit at any gathering, especially during Memorial Day BBQs.

The rich, smoky taste from the grill paired with a luscious honey glaze creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time and tossed on the grill right before serving, so you can enjoy the day with friends and family without being stuck in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the wings and toss again to ensure they’re well coated.
4. Place the wings on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until they are crispy and cooked through.
5. While the wings are grilling, mix the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl.
6. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the wings with the honey BBQ glaze to create an irresistible sticky finish.
7. Once cooked, remove the wings from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!

Classic BBQ Ribs Coated in Tangy Sauce

Get ready to fire up the grill with this classic BBQ rib recipe! These ribs are tender, juicy, and coated in a tangy sauce that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. They’re sure to be a hit at your Memorial Day BBQ and are surprisingly easy to prepare, making you look like a grill master in front of your friends and family.

The secret to irresistible BBQ ribs lies in slow cooking and a delicious sauce. You’ll enjoy the aroma wafting through the air as they cook, and your guests will be lining up for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cook: Place the ribs on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, turning occasionally, until the meat is tender.
4. Make the Sauce: While the ribs are cooking, mix the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Set aside.
5. Glaze: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the sauce generously over the ribs. Close the lid and let it caramelize, turning the ribs occasionally.
6. Serve: Once done, remove the ribs from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, and then slice between the bones. Serve with extra sauce on the side!

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos! The shrimp are marinated in a zesty mix of spices, giving them a delightful kick that pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy cilantro lime slaw. It’s a quick recipe that’s simple enough for any home cook to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for your Memorial Day BBQ.

The combination of grilled shrimp and fresh slaw creates a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress your guests. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a burst of spice complemented by the refreshing crunch of the slaw. These tacos are not just tasty; they’re also a fun way to celebrate the holiday with friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and lime juice. Add the shrimp, tossing to coat. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Slaw: In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage, cilantro, sour cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and set aside.
3. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the shrimp for easier grilling or grill them directly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few grilled shrimp on each tortilla and top with the cilantro lime slaw. Serve immediately, and enjoy your spicy creation!

Juicy Grilled Burgers with Homemade Sauce

Grilling juicy burgers with homemade sauce is a surefire way to impress friends and family this Memorial Day. These burgers are packed with flavor and topped with a delicious sauce that brings it all together. The best part? They’re easy to make and perfect for a backyard barbecue.

With a few simple ingredients, you’ll create mouthwatering burgers that everyone will love. The combination of well-seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and that homemade sauce makes for a delightful experience. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 burger buns
• Slices of tomato
• Leafy lettuce
• Sliced pickles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Form the mixture into four equal patties.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the burger patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer.
3. Toast the Buns: During the last minute of grilling, place the burger buns cut-side down on the grill to toast lightly.
4. Assemble the Burgers: Once cooked, place the patties on the toasted buns. Add slices of tomato, lettuce, and pickles. Top with your favorite homemade sauce.
5. Serve: Enjoy your juicy grilled burgers hot off the grill!

Classic Potato Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs

This classic potato salad is a BBQ staple that’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. With the addition of hard-boiled eggs, it brings an extra layer of richness that complements the potatoes perfectly. It’s simple to make and can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a hassle-free dish for your Memorial Day gathering.

The combination of tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and flavorful dressing creates a delightful texture that everyone will love. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish, this potato salad is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!

Creamy Coleslaw with Apples and Raisins

This creamy coleslaw is a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together the crunch of cabbage, the sweetness of apples, and the chewiness of raisins. The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a refreshing side that perfectly complements grilled meats at your Memorial Day BBQ.

Simple to make, this coleslaw can be prepared in just a few minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds color and flavor to your table, ensuring that everyone comes back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. Add the diced apples and raisins to the bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Charred Corn on the Cob with Spicy Butter

Charred corn on the cob with spicy butter is a must-have for your Memorial Day BBQ. The sweet, juicy corn pairs perfectly with the rich, zesty butter, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is simple to make and brings a fresh, vibrant touch to your grill lineup.

The grilling process imparts a smoky char that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, while the spicy butter adds a kick that elevates the dish. Perfect for sharing among friends and family, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
2. Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is charred and tender.
3. Apply the Butter: Once the corn is done, remove it from the grill and immediately brush it with the spicy butter mixture while it’s still hot.
4. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the buttered corn and serve hot. Enjoy the smoky, spicy flavors with your favorite BBQ dishes!

Herb-Crusted Grilled Salmon Filets

Grilling salmon is a fantastic way to showcase its natural flavors. This herb-crusted version is both light and zesty, making it perfect for your Memorial Day BBQ. The fresh herbs create a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon, while the grill adds a smoky touch that everyone will love.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dish that looks as amazing as it tastes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon filets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, parsley, dill, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Coat the Salmon: Place the salmon filets on a plate and brush the herb mixture over the top of each filet, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon filets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 3–4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the filets from the grill and garnish with lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your perfectly grilled salmon with your favorite sides!

Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese

This Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese is a perfect combination of sweet and savory that elevates any barbecue. The peaches caramelize beautifully on the grill, enhancing their natural sweetness, while the creamy goat cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast. Topped with fresh greens and a drizzle of balsamic reduction, this salad is not only delicious but also simple to make.

Ready in just a few minutes, this salad is a fantastic way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s refreshing and light, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings and warm weather. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or field greens)
• 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• Balsamic reduction, for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes or until grill marks appear and the peaches are tender.
3. While the peaches are grilling, arrange the mixed greens on a serving platter.
4. Once the peaches are done, place them on top of the greens.
5. Sprinkle the salad with crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts.
6. Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving. Enjoy!

Zesty BBQ Sauce for All Your Grilling Needs

If you want to level up your BBQ game, this zesty BBQ sauce is a must-try! It brings together a perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors that complement all your grilled favorites, from ribs to veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy summer cookouts.

This sauce has a vibrant kick that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of tomatoes, spices, and a splash of citrus will have everyone asking for seconds. Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the grilling season!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together all the ingredients until smooth.
2. Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to two weeks.
4. Serve: Use this zesty BBQ sauce on grilled meats, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for veggies.

Marinated Chicken Skewers with Bell Peppers

These marinated chicken skewers with bell peppers are a perfect addition to any Memorial Day BBQ. The tender chicken pieces soak up a flavorful marinade, bringing a delightful taste of summer to your grill. Paired with vibrant bell peppers, these skewers are not only tasty but also colorful, making them visually appealing on the table.

Preparing these skewers is simple and quick, making them a great choice for any backyard gathering. Just marinate your chicken, skewer it with fresh bell peppers, and grill until perfectly charred. You’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken and bell pepper chunks onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and peppers.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

With these 14 Memorial Day BBQ Recipes That’ll Make You The Grill Master, you’ll have everything you need to create a memorable holiday feast. From smoky, flavorful meats to fresh, vibrant sides, these recipes will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!). So, this Memorial Day, let your grill be the star of the show, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary efforts. Happy grilling!