Nothing says the official start of grilling season quite like Memorial Day weekend. It’s the ultimate excuse to fire up the barbecue, gather in the backyard with friends, and slow down for an afternoon. It doesn’t have to hard work, that’s why I’ve rounded up 15 Easy Memorial Day Recipes for Your Backyard BBQ that are big on flavor but low on stress.

Red White and Blue Cheeseburger

A side view of a burger topped with red pepper, white and blue cheese

This juicy beef burger is layered with sweet roasted red peppers and a duo of white and blue cheeses for patriotic twist on a backyard classic. Get the recipe.

Grilled Parmesan Garlic and Basil Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob.

Slightly charred and sweet, whole cobs are brushed with savory garlic butter and finished with salty Parmesan. A final touch of fresh basil creates a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish. Get the recipe.

Grilled Vegetable Panini

Grilled eggplant, zucchini bell pepper and cheese oozing from the panini

Toasted to a light crunch, this grilled veggie sandwich features melted cheese, tender eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini. A layer of sun-dried tomato pesto adds a savory finish, making it a satisfying, flavor-packed option for kids and vegetarians. Get the recipe.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

A closeup of charred and grilled chicken pieces

The best of summer grilled chicken. Marinated in a  four-ingredient teriyaki sauce makes these skewers the ultimate grilling staple. Threaded on to skewers and charred to perfection, they offer a savory, caramelized finish. Get the recipe.

Red White and Blue Cupcakes

A closeup of a cupcake topped with red, white and blue frosting

Red velvet cupcakes serve as the base for a festive piping of red, white, and blue frosting (like fireworks). These eye-catching treats offer a light cocoa flavor and a patriotic look perfect for your summer celebration. Get the recipe.

Asian-Style Grilled Mushrooms

Sliced marinated mushrooms on metal skewers grilled

A quick flash over the grates transforms ordinary mushrooms into deeply charred, savory sponges. Glazed in a fast blend of soy, garlic, and honey, they emerge from the grill sweet, salty, and completely addictive. Get the recipe.

Grilled Margherita Pizza

Fresh basil leaves on a grilled pizza

Pizza is always a hit and even better on the grill. a homemade crust topped with  tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil. The kids will love it! Get the recipe.

Sticky Guinness Glazed Ribs

Baby back ribs glazed with a Guinness barbecue sauce

Slow-cooked with spices to a tender finish and charred on the grill, these ribs are coated in a bold, savory-sweet Guinness glaze. The complex spice rub and caramelized sauce create a fall-off-the-bone experience that will be the talk of the cookout. Get the recipe.

No Mayo Potato Salad

Creamy dijon dressing with roasted potatoes

Ditch the traditional mayo for a zesty honey Dijon glaze that stays fresh and bright, even in the afternoon heat. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives adds a fresh aromatic finish to this crowd-pleasing Memorial Day side. Get the recipe.

Bacon Mayonnaise

Bacon mayonnaise viewed from overhead

Elevate your burgers by turning leftover bacon drippings into a  tasty spread that puts store-bought condiments to shame. adding a bold, salty depth that will have your guests asking for the secret ingredient. Get the recipe.

Grilled Vegetables

A colorful platter of vegetables

A colorful platter of grilled veggies are perfect for feeding a crowd. Mushrooms, zucchini, asparagus are great as a side or serve with a dip. Get the recipe.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolatey chunk cookies topped with flaky sea salt

You can never go wrong with a classic, and these chocolate chip cookies are a guaranteed hit for guests of all ages. Soft, chewy, and loaded with melty chocolate chunk and sea salt, they are the perfect handheld treat. Get the recipe.

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Grilled sweet potatoes served with curry ketchup

Who said you can’t grill potatoes? Partially cook them first, then grill for extra smoky flavor. Great to serve with those burgers. Get the recipe.

Greek Pasta Salad

A bowl of pasta salad with vegetables and cheese.

Pasta salad completes a grilled meal. This one hs Mediterranean flair with a mix of chickpeas, Kalamata olives, and salty Feta. Tossed in a creamy lemon dressing with crisp cucumbers and peppers. Get the recipe.

Spicy Blue Cheese Chips

A cast iron skillet filled with potato chips, blue cheese and hot sauce

An easy no-cook appetizer or snack. Potato chips topped with blue cheese,A quick moment on the grill melts the cheese into a spicy, tangy topping that provides an explosive flavor kick. Get the recipe.