The Ultimate Memorial Day Grilling Guide: 15 Must-Try Recipes
Grilling season is officially here! Memorial Day weekend represents the perfect opportunity to scrape off those grates, fire up the charcoal or gas, and gather friends for a backyard feast. Whether you are looking to elevate your standard burger or want to try something completely unexpected like grilled pizza or dessert, we have curated a list of 15 spectacular recipes to make your holiday weekend unforgettable.
Elevated Burgers and Sandwiches
BBQ Whiskey Burger
If you want to take your traditional cheeseburger to the next level, a splash of whiskey in the patty mix adds a sophisticated depth of flavor. These BBQ burgers are juicy, smoky, and guaranteed to be the star of the show.
Bruschetta Burger
Ditch the ketchup and mustard for a fresh, Italian-inspired topping. By adding balsamic glaze and a fresh tomato-basil topping, you transform a basic burger into a gourmet meal that feels light and summery.
Spicy Black Bean Burger
Don't let your vegetarian guests settle for a frozen patty. These homemade spicy black bean burgers pack a punch of flavor and hold up beautifully on the grill, ensuring everyone at the party has a delicious "main event" meal.
Savory Poultry and Grilled Pizzas
Grilled Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas aren't just for the stovetop. Preparing them on the grill gives the tortillas a delightful crunch and a hint of char that complements the melted cheese and seasoned chicken perfectly.
Grilled Chicken Taco Pizza
Why choose between pizza and tacos? This recipe allows you to bake the dough directly on the grill grates, resulting in a crispy crust topped with zesty chicken and fresh taco toppings.
Classic Beer Butt Chicken
This is a backyard BBQ staple for a reason. By steaming the chicken from the inside with a half-full can of beer, you ensure the meat stays incredibly moist while the skin becomes perfectly golden and crisp.
Premium Meats and Smoked Specialties
Fall-Off-The-Bone Smoked Ribs
For those who take their grilling seriously, low and slow is the way to go. These smoked ribs are tender, flavorful, and worth every minute of the cooking process.
Grilled Meatballs on a Stick
Meatballs aren't just for pasta. Putting them on skewers and grilling them creates a fantastic "finger food" option that is easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.
London Broil for a Crowd
If you are hosting a large group, London Broil is a cost-effective and delicious way to serve steak. When marinated properly and sliced against the grain, it provides a tender, high-end experience for all your guests.
Teriyaki Steak Kabobs
Combining sweet and savory, these steak kabobs feature a zesty teriyaki marinade. Skewering the meat with vibrant vegetables makes for a complete, colorful meal on a stick.
Zesty Steak Tacos
Grilled steak makes for the ultimate taco filling. Quickly sear your steak over high heat, thinly slice it, and let guests build their own tactics with fresh lime, cilantro, and onions.
Fresh Seafood from the Grill
Cedar Plank Salmon
Cooking salmon on a cedar plank protects the delicate fish from the direct flame while infusing it with a deep, woody aroma. It is one of the most foolproof ways to cook fish on a grill.
Paleo Salmon Kabobs
If you don't have cedar planks, kabobs are the next best thing. Cubing the salmon allows for quick cooking and maximum surface area for seasoning, making these perfect for a healthy, Paleo-friendly option.
Grilled Sides and Desserts
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Move over, potato salad! Slicing sweet potatoes and grilling them brings out their natural sugars. They make a fantastic, nutrient-dense side dish for any grilled protein.
Grilled S'mores
Who says you need a campfire? You can assemble your chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows, then wrap them in foil or place them on the cool side of the grill to melt into a gooey, smoky treat.
