When planning your next picnic, choosing the right dishes can make all the difference. These 15 best picnic food ideas are designed to be easy to pack, serve, and enjoy outdoors. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or a bit of both, these recipes will keep you well-fed and ready to enjoy your day out.
Grandma’s Cornbread
Grandma’s Cornbread combines cornmeal, milk, and eggs into a delightful treat that’s ready in about 25 minutes. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a wonderfully crumbly texture, perfect for pairing with any meal. This cornbread is a comforting staple that feels like a warm hug at any picnic. Pack it fresh for a satisfying side that complements both savory and sweet dishes.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
This Lamb Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty choice that blends ground lamb, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. The rich, savory taste and creamy potato topping make it a fulfilling meal ready in an hour. It’s a substantial dish that carries the comforts of home outdoors. Slice it into portions for easy sharing at your next picnic.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice features zesty chicken paired with fragrant rice, taking about 30 minutes to prepare. The combination of fresh cilantro and tangy lime infuses this dish with vibrant flavors. It’s a refreshing, light option that’s also filling. Serve it cold or at room temperature for a fuss-free picnic meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
These Easy Lemon Bars with a Shortbread Crust offer a tangy lemon filling atop a buttery crust, ready in about 45 minutes. The sharp, sweet taste contrasted with the crumbly base makes for a delightful dessert. These bars are easy to transport and serve, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings. Cut them into squares for a grab-and-go treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust
Apple Bacon Beer Bread
Apple Bacon Beer Bread is a unique blend of sweet apples, salty bacon, and robust beer, baked into a loaf in just over an hour. The savory and slightly sweet flavors create a complex taste profile. This bread is dense and moist, ideal for a substantial snack. It’s a conversation starter that’s both flavorful and filling.
Get the Recipe: Apple Bacon Beer Bread
Mini Apple Pies
Mini Apple Pies are a charming addition to any picnic basket, with a baking time of around 30 minutes. These little delights are packed with spiced apples encased in flaky pastry. The pies are sweet, with a hint of spice, and are perfect for individual servings. They’re easy to eat without needing plates, making them ideal for outdoor settings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies
Peach Crumble Bars
Peach Crumble Bars combine juicy peaches with a crumbly topping in a recipe that takes about 50 minutes to make. They strike a sweet and slightly tart balance that tantalizes the taste buds. These bars are sturdy for transport and offer a burst of summer flavor. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or a dessert at your picnic.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble Bars
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that’s ready in under an hour. It features layers of fluffy cake with fresh, juicy strawberries and light whipped cream. The combination is both sweet and refreshing. Cut into servings, it’s a delightful treat that’s easy to share outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Drop Biscuits with Orange Honey Butter
Drop Biscuits with Orange Honey Butter are quick to make, requiring about 20 minutes. The biscuits are fluffy and light, and the orange honey butter adds a sweet, citrusy glaze. This pairing brings a delightful twist to traditional biscuits. They’re perfect for spreading with butter and enjoying under the sun.
Get the Recipe: Drop Biscuits with Orange Honey Butter
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes provide a tropical twist with a chilled, creamy texture, ready in about an hour. The combination of sweet pineapple and soft ice cream forms a refreshing dessert perfect for cooling down. They are best kept frozen until serving. This treat is a standout favorite for a hot day outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet mixes tender chicken with a rich balsamic sauce and takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The dish has a deep, tangy flavor that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for picnics. Its creamy texture and robust flavor make it a popular choice.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
White Chocolate Fudge
White Chocolate Fudge is rich and decadent, prepared in just about 20 minutes plus chilling time. This fudge is creamy and smooth with a melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s incredibly easy to slice and serve as a sweet picnic finale. Its luxurious texture and sweet taste are sure to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Fudge
Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread
Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread is a festive loaf that’s ready in about an hour. It combines tart cranberries with citrusy orange and crunchy poppy seeds for a lively flavor mix. This bread is moist and colorful, making it a visually appealing addition to any meal. It’s a refreshing choice for a leisurely outdoor feast.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Poppy Seed Bread
Ultimate Holiday Rice Krispies® Treats
Ultimate Holiday Rice Krispies® Treats are fun and festive, taking only about 20 minutes to prepare. These treats are gooey and sweet, with added holiday spices for a special touch. They are easy to make in large batches and even easier to eat by hand. Pack them for a playful, sweet snack that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Holiday Rice Krispies® Treats
Banana Bread Muffins
Banana Bread Muffins are a delightful choice, requiring about 25 minutes to bake. They are soft, moist, and full of ripe banana flavor. These muffins are convenient for picnics as they are portable and don’t require any utensils. Their sweet, comforting taste makes them a favorite among all age groups.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread Muffins