Today, I want to share my top 10 best Memorial Day BBQ recipes that will make your celebration memorable. These recipes are easy to prepare and will impress your guests. Memorial Day is a special time to honor those who have served our country, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious BBQ? I love gathering friends and family around the grill, sharing stories, and enjoying great food.
1. Classic BBQ Ribs
Nothing says BBQ like a rack of tender, juicy ribs. I have spent years perfecting my rib recipe, and I can confidently say that these will be the star of your Memorial Day feast.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Season the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Grill the ribs for about 2 hours, basting with BBQ sauce every 30 minutes.
- Cook until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers
These chicken skewers are a great option for those who prefer lighter fare. I love marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Bell peppers and onions, cut into chunks
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 2 hours.
- Thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
3. Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple. I love how simple and delicious it is.
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush with melted butter and season with salt and pepper before serving.
4. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are always a hit. I often make this dish in a slow cooker for easy preparation.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- Add sliced onion and pour BBQ sauce over the top.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender.
- Shred the pork and serve on buns.
5. Grilled Veggie Platter
A colorful grilled veggie platter is perfect for adding some freshness to your BBQ. I love using seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini, sliced
- Bell peppers, cut into strips
- Asparagus
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the veggies for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
6. Coleslaw
No BBQ is complete without coleslaw. This crunchy side dish pairs perfectly with all the grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Grilled Shrimp Tacos
These shrimp tacos are a fun and flavorful addition to any BBQ. I love serving them with a fresh mango salsa.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Toss shrimp with olive oil and taco seasoning.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Serve in corn tortillas with your favorite toppings.
8. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that everyone loves. I often make mine from scratch for a personal touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a baking dish, combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
9. Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad is a great way to balance out the heavier BBQ dishes. I love using a mix of seasonal fruits for the best taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups blueberries
- 2 cups watermelon, cubed
- Juice of 1 lime
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all the fruit.
- Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently.
- Garnish with mint leaves before serving.
10. S’mores Bar
For dessert, a s’mores bar is a fun way to end the meal. I provide all the ingredients and let everyone build their own.
Ingredients:
- Graham crackers
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate bars
- Skewers for roasting
Instructions:
- Set up a table with all the ingredients.
- Roast marshmallows over the grill until golden brown.
- Assemble s’mores by placing a roasted marshmallow and a piece of chocolate between two graham crackers.
Enjoying Your 10 Best Memorial Day BBQ Recipes
These 10 best Memorial Day BBQ recipes are sure to make your gathering a hit. Each dish is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. I love how these recipes bring people together, creating lasting memories over good food. Enjoy your BBQ and remember to honor those who have served while you celebrate with family and friends.