Memorial Day is a time to celebrate, reflect, and indulge in delicious food with friends and family. If you’re preparing for a Memorial Day feast, you want recipes that not only impress but are also easy to make and packed with flavor. From savory stuffed mozzarella onion rings to sweet raspberry cheesecake balls, we’ve gathered 10 Memorial Day recipes that will leave your guests talking about your culinary skills long after the party ends.
1. Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings
Start your Memorial Day feast with a bang by serving Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings. These crispy, cheesy delights are stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and wrapped in a golden, crunchy onion ring coating. They’re perfect as a starter or finger food for your Memorial Day picnic.
Why These Are Perfect for Memorial Day:
The contrast of crispy onion and melty mozzarella is unbeatable, and the cheese adds a rich, savory layer that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to make and fun to eat! Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
2. White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls
For dessert, you can’t go wrong with White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls. These bite-sized treats combine creamy cheesecake filling with the sweet-tart flavor of raspberries, all coated in silky white chocolate.
A Sweet Ending:
These no-bake cheesecake balls are the perfect treat to cap off your Memorial Day menu. The tangy raspberries paired with the rich white chocolate create a balanced sweetness that’s sure to delight your guests. They’re easy to pop into your mouth while mingling, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings.
3. Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
If you’re looking for a main dish that’s hearty yet light, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a fantastic choice. The creamy sauce brings together tender chicken and crisp broccoli with perfectly cooked penne pasta for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.
A Hearty Favorite:
This Memorial Day recipe is rich and flavorful without being too heavy. The addition of broccoli gives it a fresh crunch, while the creamy sauce keeps it indulgent. Perfect for those who want a filling dish that’s not too overwhelming on a warm holiday.
4. Raspberry Crescent Rolls
Raspberry Crescent Rolls are the ideal combination of sweetness and flakiness, making them a perfect breakfast or dessert for your Memorial Day feast. These delicate rolls are filled with raspberry jam and wrapped in buttery crescent dough, then baked until golden brown.
Light and Flaky Perfection:
The tangy raspberry filling inside the flaky dough is a delightful bite, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your Memorial Day spread. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after a BBQ, these rolls will be a hit.
5. Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles
No Memorial Day feast is complete without a rich and savory main dish. Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles takes the classic combination of steak and pasta and kicks it up a notch with garlic butter, creating a dish that’s both rich and comforting.
Flavor in Every Bite:
This dish is a savory sensation. The garlic butter sauce coats each noodle perfectly, while the steak adds a hearty, satisfying protein to the meal. It’s quick to make and will fill your guests up without keeping you in the kitchen for long.
6. Beef and Noodles Delight
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the best of both worlds—savory beef and tender noodles—look no further than Beef and Noodles Delight. This recipe is packed with rich, meaty flavor and comforting noodles in a creamy sauce.
Comfort Food at Its Best:
This Memorial Day recipe is simple, yet satisfying. The beef is cooked to perfection, and the creamy sauce brings everything together in a way that’s both cozy and elegant. This dish works perfectly as a filling main course at your holiday celebration.
7. Italian Sausage Gnocchi Bake
For an Italian twist, Italian Sausage Gnocchi Bake is an absolute must-try. Gnocchi is tossed in a savory sauce with crumbled sausage, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to perfection for a dish that’s full of flavor and comforting textures.
Hearty and Flavorful:
This bake is perfect for a Memorial Day gathering because it can be made in advance and served straight from the oven. The combination of gnocchi and sausage makes it filling, while the melted cheese ensures every bite is indulgent and rich.
8. Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
Grilling is a Memorial Day tradition, and Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets is a perfect recipe to throw on the grill. The sweet teriyaki sauce and juicy pineapple perfectly complement the tender chicken, making for an easy, no-mess meal that’s full of tropical flavor.
Grill-Friendly and Delicious:
These foil packets are not only easy to make, but they’re also super flavorful. The sweetness of the pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, creating a balanced and delicious dish that’s perfect for your Memorial Day cookout.
9. Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a bold, flavorful option for your Memorial Day dinner. The crispy, golden Parmesan crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the garlic butter base ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
Bold and Savory:
This dish is a crowd favorite because it’s simple but packed with flavor. The garlic and Parmesan combination creates a savory crust that elevates the chicken, making it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday spread.
10. Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp
End your Memorial Day feast with the irresistible Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp. These shrimp are perfectly seasoned and fried to crispy perfection, creating a delightful appetizer or main dish that everyone will love.
A Light and Crispy Delight:
The simple seasoning of salt and pepper lets the natural sweetness of the shrimp shine, while the crispy coating provides a satisfying crunch. These shrimp are great on their own or served with a dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many of these dishes, like the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne and Italian Sausage Gnocchi Bake, can be made in advance and reheated. Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets can even be prepped ahead of time and simply grilled on the day.
2. Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Yes! Many of the recipes, including Raspberry Crescent Rolls, Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, and Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles, are loved by kids for their familiar flavors. You can adjust the spice levels in dishes like Teriyaki Chicken to cater to younger palates.
3. Can I make these dishes gluten-free?
Several of these recipes can be adapted for gluten-free diets. For instance, you can swap regular pasta for gluten-free penne in the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
4. How do I store leftovers from my Memorial Day feast?
Leftovers from these Memorial Day recipes can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Most dishes, such as the Beef and Noodles Delight and Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp, will last up to three days, while some can be frozen for longer storage.
5. What drinks should I serve with these recipes?
For a perfect pairing, serve refreshing beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or even light cocktails. A white wine or rosé works wonderfully with dishes like Garlic Butter Steak Lightning Noodles and Italian Sausage Gnocchi Bake.
Conclusion: Celebrate Memorial Day with Flavorful Feasts
As you prepare for Memorial Day, these 10 Memorial Day recipes are the perfect way to create a memorable celebration. From the crispy, cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings to the juicy, savory Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets, each dish is designed to impress your guests while keeping things simple and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or an intimate family dinner, these recipes will ensure that your holiday feast is full of flavor, fun, and lasting memories.
Now, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the ultimate Memorial Day feast with your friends and family!