Memorial Day is more than just the kickoff to summer. It’s a time to honor and remember while enjoying a day filled with sunshine, family, and of course, incredible food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or planning a cozy meal with loved ones, these 10 unforgettable Memorial Day recipes are guaranteed to steal the show. From Lemon Butter Baked Cod to No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake, this collection has something for every craving. Ready to build the ultimate Memorial Day feast? Let’s dig in!
1. Lemon Butter Baked Cod
This light yet flavor-packed dish is perfect for anyone who wants to serve something elegant and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Lemon Butter Baked Cod delivers bright citrus, buttery richness, and tender, flaky fish every single time.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It’s fresh, fast, and ideal for warm-weather dining.
Main ingredients: Cod fillets, lemon juice, melted butter, garlic, paprika, parsley
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
2. Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
If you’re looking to serve a nostalgic favorite with a twist, this Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food hybrid. It’s gooey, cheesy, crispy, and packed with classic pizza flavor.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: Perfect for kids and adults alike and easy to prepare on a grill or stovetop.
Main ingredients: Sourdough bread, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, pizza sauce, butter
Pro Tip: Grill these sandwiches and cut them into quarters for an easy finger food option.
3. Sausage Hashbrown Bites
These Sausage Hashbrown Bites are savory, cheesy, and impossible to stop eating. Serve them as a brunch starter or as a party appetizer that disappears fast.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: They’re bite-sized and easy to prep ahead.
Main ingredients: Breakfast sausage, shredded hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, eggs, green onions
Pro Tip: Bake in a mini muffin tin for the perfect crispy edges.
4. Heavenly Banana Mousse Tart
Light, airy, and subtly sweet, this Heavenly Banana Mousse Tart is a dreamy dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s the banana cream pie’s elegant cousin.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It’s chilled, refreshing, and show-stopping on any dessert table.
Main ingredients: Bananas, cream cheese, whipped cream, graham cracker crust, vanilla
Pro Tip: Top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel for extra flair.
5. Homemade Banana Ice Cream
Craving a frozen treat without needing an ice cream maker? This Homemade Banana Ice Cream is made with just a few ingredients and delivers creamy, dreamy deliciousness.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It’s dairy-free, customizable, and perfect for sunny afternoons.
Main ingredients: Frozen bananas, vanilla extract, optional mix-ins (chocolate chips, peanut butter, strawberries)
Pro Tip: Let kids build their own sundae with fun toppings.
6. Beef Lo Mein
Give your Memorial Day menu a tasty twist with Beef Lo Mein. This dish is bursting with savory flavor, tender beef, and crisp veggies tossed in a garlicky soy sauce glaze.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It offers something different while being filling and flavorful.
Main ingredients: Lo mein noodles, flank steak, soy sauce, sesame oil, carrots, bell peppers, garlic, ginger
Pro Tip: Double the recipe – guests will definitely ask for seconds.
7. Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken
For a main course that’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken is your go-to. It’s cheesy, garlicky, and packed with flavor.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: Pairs perfectly with salads, grilled veggies, or even pasta.
Main ingredients: Chicken breasts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, breadcrumbs, olive oil
Pro Tip: Serve with a squeeze of lemon or drizzle of honey mustard.
8. Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Merging two American favorites, this Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is stuffed with melty cheese, sauteed peppers, and onions. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: A hearty, satisfying dish that brings big flavor to the table.
Main ingredients: Ground beef, provolone cheese, onions, bell peppers, Worcestershire sauce
Pro Tip: Serve with toasted hoagie rolls for an epic sandwich twist.
9. Red Velvet Cheesecake
Decadent, dramatic, and downright delicious, Red Velvet Cheesecake is a true showstopper. The rich red velvet base is perfectly balanced with tangy cream cheese.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: It’s festive, elegant, and unforgettable.
Main ingredients: Cocoa powder, cream cheese, sugar, buttermilk, red food coloring
Pro Tip: Add white chocolate curls or fresh berries on top for a stunning finish.
10. No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
When the oven’s off-limits but dessert is non-negotiable, this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake comes to the rescue. Creamy, fruity, and set in a buttery graham cracker crust.
Why it’s perfect for Memorial Day: No-bake means no sweat – and it chills perfectly ahead of time.
Main ingredients: Cream cheese, fresh strawberries, whipped topping, graham crackers, sugar
Pro Tip: Top with a fresh strawberry glaze or pile on extra berries.
FAQs About Memorial Day Recipes
Q1: Can I prepare these recipes in advance?
Yes! Many of these dishes, like the No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake and Sausage Hashbrown Bites, are perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Q2: Are there kid-friendly options in this list?
Absolutely. Kids will love the Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese, Homemade Banana Ice Cream, and Sausage Hashbrown Bites.
Q3: What are some good side dishes to serve?
Fresh salads, corn on the cob, pasta salad, and grilled veggies are all great additions to your Memorial Day spread.
Q4: Can I make vegetarian versions of these recipes?
Definitely. Swap the meat in dishes like Beef Lo Mein for tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetarian cheese where needed.
Q5: Which recipe is best for dessert lovers?
Tough choice! The Red Velvet Cheesecake, Heavenly Banana Mousse Tart, and No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake are all winners.
Conclusion: Your Memorial Day Feast Starts Here
No matter how you plan to celebrate, these 10 Memorial Day recipes offer something for everyone at the table. From cheesy, crave-worthy mains to light, refreshing desserts, each dish brings its own flavor and charm. With a mix of classic comfort food and creative twists, this menu is your key to an unforgettable Memorial Day celebration. So fire up the grill, chill the drinks, and get ready to enjoy a holiday meal that honors the day and satisfies the appetite.
Happy Memorial Day – and happy feasting!