Memorial Day isn’t just about honoring our heroes—it’s also a chance to kick off summer with good company and mouthwatering recipes. If you’re hosting a barbecue, picnic, or potluck, you need a spread that dazzles. We’ve put together a list of 10 Memorial Day recipes that are sure to become annual traditions. Each one is packed with flavor, festive spirit, and a dash of indulgence. From savory mains to refreshing drinks and a dreamy dessert, this guide has everything you need for the ultimate Memorial Day feast.
1. Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken
This is Memorial Day grilling with a twist. If you thought plain grilled chicken was enough, think again. Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken combines crispy Doritos with creamy stuffing and smoky bacon for a knockout main dish.
Why it’s perfect:
- Crispy on the outside, creamy inside
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Bold, cheesy flavor
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Cream cheese
- Bacon
- Nacho cheese Doritos
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper
Instructions:
- Slice each chicken breast to create a pocket.
- Mix cream cheese, bacon bits, cheddar, and spices.
- Stuff each chicken breast and secure with toothpicks.
- Crush Doritos and coat each breast evenly.
- Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
2. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake brings together everything comforting: tender pasta, juicy chicken, rich parmesan, and a garlicky cream sauce that bakes into golden perfection.
Why it’s perfect:
- Easy to make ahead
- Perfect for a picnic or buffet table
- Hearty and satisfying
Ingredients:
- Rotini or penne pasta
- Chicken breasts
- Heavy cream
- Garlic cloves
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella
- Butter, salt, pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Sauté chicken and garlic in butter.
- Stir in cream, seasonings, and cheeses.
- Mix with pasta and transfer to baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
3. Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Looking for a one-pan wonder? Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes is the no-fuss, flavor-packed dish you need on your Memorial Day menu.
Why it’s perfect:
- Fewer dishes to clean
- Crispy, golden potatoes with juicy chicken
- Garlic and parmesan take it to the next level
Ingredients:
- Bone-in chicken thighs
- Baby potatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Grated parmesan
- Italian seasoning, salt, pepper
Instructions:
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and seasoning.
- Rub chicken with oil and seasonings.
- Bake together on a sheet pan at 400°F for 40-45 minutes.
4. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini
You can’t forget your veggies. These Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini are colorful, healthy, and bursting with flavor.
Why it’s perfect:
- Adds balance to a rich spread
- Vibrant, seasonal vegetables
- Vegan-friendly option
Ingredients:
- Red potatoes
- Carrots
- Zucchini
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary
Instructions:
- Chop vegetables uniformly.
- Toss with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
- Roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.
5. Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Rich, creamy, and loaded with spring veggies, Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is elegance in a skillet.
Why it’s perfect:
- Sophisticated enough for adults
- Creamy and satisfying
- Easy to prepare in advance
Ingredients:
- Penne pasta
- Chicken breast
- Mushrooms
- Asparagus
- Heavy cream
- Garlic, onion
- Parmesan, salt, pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta and set aside.
- Sauté chicken until browned.
- Add mushrooms, asparagus, garlic, and onion.
- Pour in cream, season, and simmer.
- Mix with pasta and top with parmesan.
6. Homemade Cowboy Beans
Looking for something hearty and nostalgic? Homemade Cowboy Beans are smoky, sweet, tangy, and loaded with flavor.
Why it’s perfect:
- A barbecue staple
- Pairs with any grilled meat
- Make ahead and reheat-friendly
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Bacon
- Onion
- Canned beans (pinto, kidney, baked)
- BBQ sauce
- Brown sugar, mustard, ketchup
Instructions:
- Cook bacon and set aside.
- Brown ground beef with onion.
- Add beans and remaining ingredients.
- Simmer for 30-40 minutes.
7. GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA
Yes, it deserves a second shout. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a little different from the earlier bake—it’s stovetop and super creamy.
Why it’s perfect:
- Ultra creamy garlic sauce
- Quick and stovetop-friendly
- Great served warm or at room temp
Ingredients:
- Fettuccine pasta
- Chicken breasts
- Garlic cloves
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter, pepper, salt
Instructions:
- Cook pasta and reserve water.
- Sauté chicken and garlic.
- Add cream and parmesan to pan.
- Combine pasta, sauce, and a splash of pasta water.
8. Irresistible Boston Cream Poke Cake
No feast is complete without dessert, and this Boston Cream Poke Cake is as easy as it is decadent.
Why it’s perfect:
- Easy to make from a box mix
- Creamy pudding filling and rich chocolate glaze
- Can be made ahead
Ingredients:
- Yellow cake mix
- Vanilla pudding
- Milk
- Chocolate frosting or ganache
Instructions:
- Bake cake and poke holes while still warm.
- Mix pudding and pour over cake.
- Chill until set, then top with chocolate frosting.
9. Homemade Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets
These Easy Cheesy Pizza Pockets are fun, handheld, and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Why it’s perfect:
- Great for picky eaters
- Portable and picnic-friendly
- Easy to customize
Ingredients:
- Refrigerated pizza dough
- Pizza sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni or toppings of choice
- Egg wash
Instructions:
- Roll out dough and cut into rectangles.
- Add sauce, cheese, and toppings.
- Fold, seal, and brush with egg wash.
- Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.
10. Lemon Berry Slush Punch
Cool, refreshing, and bursting with summer fruit, this Lemon Berry Slush Punch is the drink your Memorial Day bash needs.
Why it’s perfect:
- Alcohol optional
- Fruity and fizzy
- Kids and adults love it
Ingredients:
- Frozen lemonade concentrate
- Mixed berries
- Lemon-lime soda
- Ice
Instructions:
- Blend lemonade, berries, and ice until slushy.
- Stir in lemon-lime soda.
- Serve in a punch bowl or dispenser.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these Memorial Day recipes ahead of time?
Yes! Many of these dishes—like the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake and Boston Cream Poke Cake—taste even better the next day.
Q: Are there any vegetarian options in this list?
Absolutely! The Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini is a fantastic vegetarian side.
Q: What are the best recipes for feeding a large crowd?
Try the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, Homemade Cowboy Beans, and the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake for large servings.
Q: Can I adapt these for outdoor grilling?
Definitely. Recipes like Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken and even the pizza pockets can be modified for the grill.
Q: What’s a good drink to pair with these foods?
The Lemon Berry Slush Punch is light, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with hearty dishes.
Conclusion
This Memorial Day, don’t settle for boring burgers and bland sides. Make it unforgettable with a spread of flavorful, crowd-pleasing recipes that hit every note—from savory and cheesy to sweet and refreshing. These 10 Memorial Day recipes are not just meals—they’re memory-makers. So grab your shopping list, fire up the grill, preheat that oven, and get ready to celebrate with the best recipes of the season. Happy Memorial Day, and happy feasting!