Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with these iconic Memorial Day Food favorites! From sizzling meats to fresh, vibrant sides, these crowd-pleasers guarantee a festive and delicious backyard feast. Let freedom (and flavor) ring!
1. Juicy Cheeseburgers: The All-American Classic
The undisputed king of the cookout! A perfectly grilled, juicy patty topped with melty cheese on a soft bun – endlessly customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground chuck (80/20 fat ratio)
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- 4 good quality hamburger buns, lightly toasted
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo
Instructions:
- Mix Gently: In a bowl, combine ground chuck, Worcestershire (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix lightly with your hands – don’t overwork!
- Form Patties: Divide meat into 4 equal portions. Gently form into ¾-inch thick patties, slightly wider than your buns (they shrink). Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375-400°F). Place patties on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium (longer for well-done).
- Cheese & Serve: In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid briefly to melt. Place burgers on toasted buns and let everyone add their favorite toppings!
2. Grilled Hot Dogs: Simple & Satisfying
A nostalgic staple that’s quick, easy, and loved by all ages. Grilling adds irresistible smoky char.
Ingredients:
- 8 quality all-beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- Optional Toppings: Yellow mustard, ketchup, relish, diced onions, sauerkraut, chili, shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Prep Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
- Grill Dogs: Place hot dogs directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5-8 minutes, turning frequently, until heated through and nicely marked with grill lines.
- Toast Buns: Place buns, cut-side down, on the grill for the last 30-60 seconds until lightly toasted.
- Serve: Place hot dogs in buns and set out a toppings bar for everyone to customize!
3. Finger-Lickin’ BBQ Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone Goodness
Tender, smoky ribs slathered in sticky-sweet barbecue sauce – the ultimate indulgence for your Memorial Day feast.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks St. Louis-style or baby back pork ribs
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard (as binder)
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ dry rub
- 1.5 – 2 cups your favorite BBQ sauce
- Aluminum foil
- (Optional: 1 cup apple juice or cider for wrapping)
Instructions:
- Prep Ribs: Remove membrane from bone-side of ribs. Pat dry. Brush both sides lightly with mustard. Apply dry rub generously, pressing it in.
- Low & Slow: Preheat grill/smoker for indirect heat at 225-250°F. Place ribs bone-side down on the cool side. Smoke for 3 hours.
- Wrap: Lay out large sheets of foil. Place each rack meat-side down. (Optional: Pour ½ cup apple juice over each). Wrap tightly. Return to grill for 1.5-2 hours until very tender (probe slides in easily).
- Sauce & Set: Unwrap ribs. Place meat-side up back on the grill over indirect heat. Brush generously with BBQ sauce. Cook for 15-20 minutes, brushing with more sauce once or twice, until sauce is set and sticky. Rest 10 mins before slicing.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet Summer Simplicity #Memorial Day Food
Fresh corn kissed by the grill, bringing out its natural sweetness. Slathered in butter – perfection!
Ingredients:
- 6 ears fresh sweet corn, husks ON
- Salted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Chili powder, garlic powder, grated Parmesan, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Soak Corn: Submerge unhusked corn in cold water for 15-30 minutes. This prevents burning.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium (about 350-375°F). Place soaked corn, husks still on, directly on the grill grates. Close lid.
- Cook: Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until husks are charred and kernels feel tender when pressed (use tongs!).
- Husk & Serve: Carefully remove hot corn using tongs. Peel back husks and remove silk. Serve immediately with butter, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
5. Patriotic Fresh Fruit Salad: Light & Refreshing
A vibrant, healthy mix of red, white, and blue fruits – the perfect refreshing counterpoint to rich BBQ.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (red)
- 2 cups hulled and quartered strawberries (red)
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (blue)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows or cubed honeydew melon (white)
- 1-2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- Dressing (Optional but Recommended):
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey or agave
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep Fruit: Wash all fruit thoroughly. Cut watermelon, strawberries, and honeydew (if using) into bite-sized pieces. Hull strawberries.
- Make Dressing (If Using): Whisk lime juice, honey, and poppy seeds in a small bowl until honey dissolves.
- Combine: Gently toss watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and marshmallows/honeydew in a large bowl.
- Dress & Chill: Drizzle dressing (if using) over fruit and toss gently to coat. Stir in chopped mint. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
Watch How to make
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FAQ
- What’s the #1 tip for juicy burgers?
A: Use 80/20 ground chuck and don’t over-mix the meat! Handle it gently and make a thumbprint dimple in the center of each patty. - Can I make ribs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Cook the ribs completely (through step 3). Cool, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill (indirect heat) and apply sauce before serving. - How do I prevent hot dogs from bursting on the grill?
A: Don’t poke them! Grill over medium (not high) heat and turn frequently. Soaking them briefly in cold water before grilling can also help. - Do I have to soak corn before grilling?
A: It’s highly recommended! Soaking prevents the husks from burning to a crisp before the corn cooks through. 15-30 minutes in cold water is perfect. - Can I use frozen fruit for the salad?
A: Fresh is best for texture and appearance. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain ALL excess liquid very well before adding to avoid a watery salad. - What’s a good vegetarian main for Memorial Day?
A: Grilled portobello mushrooms (marinated in balsamic & herbs), veggie burgers, or hearty vegetable skewers (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes, tofu). - How much food should I plan per person?
A: Estimate: 1-2 burgers or hot dogs, ½ rack ribs (or 3-4 bones), 1 ear of corn, 1 cup fruit salad, plus other sides. Adjust for your crowd’s appetite! - How long can food sit out safely?
A: The “Danger Zone” is 40°F – 140°F. Perishable food (meat, mayo-based salads, dairy) shouldn’t sit out longer than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s over 90°F outside). Keep cold food on ice and hot food over low heat/chafing dishes. - What’s the best wood for smoking ribs?
A: Hickory and oak offer strong, classic BBQ flavor. Apple or cherry wood provides a sweeter, milder fruitiness that complements pork beautifully. - My BBQ sauce burns on the ribs! Help!
A: Apply sauce only during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking over indirect heat. Sugar in sauce burns easily over direct flame. - Can I grill the corn without the husk?
A: Yes! Husk the corn first. Brush lightly with oil or butter and grill over medium heat for 8-12 minutes, turning frequently, until tender and slightly charred. - How far ahead can I make the fruit salad?
A: For best texture, assemble it the same day, ideally 1-3 hours before serving. Add delicate berries (like raspberries) and dressing closer to serving time. - What are some fun topping ideas for burgers & dogs?
A: Go beyond basics! Try: Caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, bacon, fried eggs, different cheeses (pepper jack, blue cheese), jalapeños, specialty mustards or aiolis.
Memorial Day Food Pro Tip: Set up a dedicated “Condiment & Toppings Station” with all the fixings for burgers and dogs. It keeps the grill area clear and lets guests customize their perfect bite!
Fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy these quintessential Memorial Day Food classics. Share your delicious creations using #MemorialDayFeast! 🍔🌭🇺🇸
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