Planning your Memorial Day gathering? Whether you’re firing up the grill or prepping a cozy indoor dinner spread, these Memorial Day feast ideas will take your celebration to the next level. From creamy pasta dishes to sizzling salmon, indulgent cookies, and BBQ-inspired noodles, this is your one-stop shop for 10 unforgettable recipes that are bold, beautiful, and downright delicious.
1. Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon
Let’s start strong with a buttery, rich, and oh-so-flaky salmon filet that practically melts in your mouth. This Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon is not only stunning on the plate, but it’s also packed with protein and healthy greens, making it a guilt-free showstopper.
Highlights:
- Juicy salmon seared to golden perfection
- Creamy spinach garlic sauce
- Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknight dinner
2. Schoko-Cheesecake-Cookies
These German-inspired Schoko-Cheesecake-Cookies are the sweet surprise your Memorial Day menu needs. With a chewy chocolate cookie exterior and a creamy cheesecake swirl inside, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Highlights:
- Dual-layer cookie: chocolate + cheesecake
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Add crushed pretzels for a salty crunch
3. Garlic Chicken Pizza with White Sauce
Who says pizza isn’t festive? This Garlic Chicken Pizza with White Sauce is crispy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with garlic butter flavor. It’s perfect for slicing up and serving outdoors with cold drinks and good company.
Highlights:
- Creamy white garlic sauce base
- Juicy chicken and melted mozzarella
- Bake it on a stone for extra crunch
4. Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
You can’t talk about Memorial Day feast ideas without including a comforting pasta dish, and this one delivers. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and rotini all come together in a velvety parmesan cream sauce that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Highlights:
- One-pot wonder!
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat
5. Japanese BBQ Ramen Pan
Bold flavors, sizzling noodles, and a touch of Japanese flair? Yes, please! This Japanese BBQ Ramen Pan recipe combines quick-fry ramen with sweet-savory barbecue sauce and your choice of protein for a seriously addictive side or main dish.
Highlights:
- 15-minute prep
- Great with chicken, beef, or tofu
- Instant ramen gets a serious upgrade
6. Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
Simple, satisfying, and handheld—these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are ideal for a laid-back Memorial Day picnic or poolside party. Each wrap is filled with seasoned chicken, shredded cheese, and drizzled garlic butter, then toasted until golden.
Highlights:
- Ready in 20 minutes
- No utensils needed!
- Perfect for kids and adults alike
7. Hawaiian Fried Rice
Take your guests on a tropical getaway with this sweet and savory Hawaiian Fried Rice. Packed with diced ham, juicy pineapple, veggies, and a touch of soy sauce, this dish pairs well with just about any Memorial Day protein.
Highlights:
- Pineapple brings a fresh, bright twist
- Add a fried egg on top for flair
- Use day-old rice for best results
8. Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta
This recipe screams indulgence and is one of the most comforting Memorial Day feast ideas you’ll make. Rich Italian sausage is cooked with garlic, herbs, and heavy cream, then tossed with pasta and parmesan for a creamy, cozy main course.
Highlights:
- Great for batch cooking
- Add spinach or mushrooms for veggies
- Ready in under 30 minutes
9. Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce
Now THIS is a centerpiece dish. Juicy grilled steak is topped with a spicy, creamy Cajun shrimp sauce that turns dinner into a surf-and-turf fantasy. This one is for your flavor-loving guests who want a bold punch of spice and richness.
Highlights:
- Two proteins, one knockout dish
- Cajun spice mix = major flavor
- Use ribeye, sirloin, or even filet
10. Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Last but not least, treat your sweet tooth to these Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re chewy, buttery, and loaded with gooey chocolate chips and nutty coconut flakes—perfect for grabbing as you watch the fireworks light up the sky.
Highlights:
- No chilling needed!
- Freezes beautifully
- Pair with ice cream for dessert sandwiches
FAQs – Memorial Day Feast Ideas
Q: Can I prepare these dishes in advance?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes, like the Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps, can be prepped the day before and finished off just before serving.
Q: Are there any vegetarian options?
Yes! Swap meat in the Japanese BBQ Ramen Pan or Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta for tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based alternatives.
Q: What’s a good dessert to cool off?
The Schoko-Cheesecake-Cookies and Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies are great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen whipped cream topping.
Q: How do I scale these recipes for a large crowd?
Each of these dishes can be doubled or tripled easily. Just prep in large pans or baking sheets—especially for pasta, rice, and cookies.
Q: What drink pairs well with these feast ideas?
Iced tea, lemonade, sangria, or fruity mocktails all pair wonderfully with these rich and flavorful Memorial Day dishes.
Conclusion: Celebrate with These Memorial Day Feast Ideas
When it comes to Memorial Day feast ideas, it’s all about bringing bold flavors, fun textures, and irresistible variety to your table. Whether you’re looking for something smoky, creamy, cheesy, or sweet, these 10 recipes hit every note. From the juicy Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon to the indulgent Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce, and the tropical charm of Hawaiian Fried Rice, each dish has its place in your holiday lineup.
So fire up that oven, gather your loved ones, and get ready to celebrate Memorial Day with flavor, heart, and style. Bookmark your favorites, click on “See the Recipe” for full instructions, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite.