Gear up for Memorial Day with these 21 cookout recipes that are sure to make you the star of the neighborhood. Each dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for outdoor gatherings and family fun under the sun. These recipes cover everything from the grill to the side dishes, ensuring that your holiday spread is both delicious and memorable. They’re easy to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebration.

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

If you’re aiming to impress at your next cookout, you can’t go wrong with a classic done right. Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter have that rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality that everyone loves. The cowboy butter adds a layer of flavor that makes these steaks stand out. It’s the kind of dish that makes you the star of any backyard barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

When it’s time for dessert, show off a bit with something unexpected. Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream are a sweet and smoky surprise that’ll have everyone talking. The spiced rum whipped cream brings a boozy kick that complements the smokiness of the peaches perfectly. This dish combines classic flavors in a memorable way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Add a twist to a beloved side dish that’s sure to grab attention. Grilled Elote Corn Ribs take the traditional flavors of elote and present them in a fun, rib-like form. The char from the grill adds a smoky flavor that makes them irresistible. It’s a creative spin on corn that’s easy to grab and enjoy, perfect for mingling at a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Smoked Mac & Cheese

Elevating a comfort food favorite can really set your cookout apart. Smoked Mac & Cheese introduces that beloved smoky flavor into a creamy, cheesy classic. It’s a side dish that complements any main and brings a cozy element to your outdoor meal. This is how you make comfort food fit for a gathering, leaving guests wanting seconds.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Grilled Feta

For an appetizer that’s simple but full of flavor, look no further. Grilled Feta brings the salty, tangy taste of feta cheese to the forefront, enhanced by the smoky notes from the grill. It’s a straightforward dish that’s unexpectedly addictive and pairs well with a variety of sides. This dish shows how less can indeed be more at any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Bite-sized treats are always a hit, especially when they pack a punch of flavor. Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites are easy to snack on and deliver a smoky chicken flavor wrapped in a crispy tortilla. They’re perfect for guests to munch on as they chat and enjoy the day. It’s these small touches that make a gathering memorable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Grilled Veggies

No cookout is complete without a variety of sides, and Grilled Veggies offer a colorful, healthy option. The grill brings out their natural sweetness, making them a hit even among those who might not usually opt for vegetables. They’re easy to prepare and can cater to guests with different dietary preferences. It’s about bringing everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies

Smoked Spaghetti Squash

For a unique vegetarian option, Smoked Spaghetti Squash is a game-changer. It’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skip on flavor, thanks to the smoking process. This dish offers a different texture and taste that can surprise and delight your guests. It’s about offering something out of the ordinary that’s still accessible and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

When you really want to make a statement, Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops do just that. Their impressive appearance, matched with the smoky grill flavor, can turn your cookout into an event. It’s about taking the extra step to provide a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. These chops become the center of attention and conversation.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

If you’re keen on impressing your neighbors, why not switch things up a bit with this cookout classic? Smoked Sweet Potatoes take a familiar favorite and give it a smoky twist. They come out of the smoker with a flavor that’s unique, making sure your cookout is not just another get-together. These spuds are sure to grab your attention and earn you the title of neighborhood hero this Memorial Day.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Everyone loves wings at a cookout, but adding a unique twist can set yours apart. Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings bring a sweet heat that’s irresistible. The combination of mango and chipotle offers a balance of flavors that’s bold yet not overwhelming. It’s dishes like these that keep people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Smoked Tomato Salsa

A good salsa can liven up any dish, and when it’s homemade, it’s even better. Smoked Tomato Salsa has a depth of flavor that store-bought versions can’t match. The smoky tomatoes add a rich base that’s complemented by fresh herbs and spices. This salsa is the perfect addition to your cookout table, whether as a dip or a topping.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Salsa

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Elevate your guacamole game by introducing a smoky element. Grilled Corn Guacamole combines the creamy, rich taste of avocado with the charred sweetness of corn. It’s a pairing that brings freshness and smokiness to the table. This dish proves that playing with flavors can lead to delicious results, making your guacamole the talk of the party.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

For those who love their barbecue with a bit of decadence, Pork Belly Burnt Ends are a must. These morsels are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. They’re like candy for meat lovers and can be a standout dish that leaves a lasting impression. It’s all about creating those memorable moments around the grill.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Seeking a vegetarian option that’s hearty and satisfying? Grilled Cauliflower Steaks offer a meaty texture that makes them a great substitute or addition. The grill adds a smoky flavor that enhances their natural taste. It’s about including everyone in the cookout experience, ensuring there’s something delicious for every preference.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Wings are a staple, but when they’re coated in a homemade dry rub and smoked, they become something special. Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings are packed with flavor, thanks to the blend of spices. The smoking process infuses each wing with a deep taste that’s hard to resist. It’s these thoughtful details that make your cookout stand out.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kabobs are perfect for cookouts, and Kefta Beef Kabobs bring flavors of the Middle East to your backyard. They’re easy to handle and offer a savory, spiced meat option that’s different from the usual fare. It’s about adding variety to your cookout, pleasing both your adventurous and traditional eaters.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

If you’re looking to impress with your grill skills, Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter are the way to go. The reverse sear ensures a perfectly cooked interior, while the smoked garlic butter adds a layer of flavor that elevates the dish. It’s the combination of technique and taste that can make you a legendary host.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Brighten up your cookout with Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. They bring a light, zesty flavor that’s perfect for outdoor eating. The lemon and oregano work together to create a refreshing taste that’s a welcome addition to any grill fest. It’s about introducing a dish that brings a touch of summer to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Take your taco game to the next level with Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. They’re a fusion of smoky, rich pork belly with the fresh toppings of a classic taco. It’s about combining the familiar with something a bit more extraordinary, ensuring your cookout offers an unforgettable taco experience. It’s dishes like these that keep your guests excited.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

When you want to bring a bit of international flair to your cookout, Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops are the answer. Their bold flavors and tender texture make them a sophisticated yet approachable choice. It’s about offering something a little different, a dish that transports your guests while they’re still standing in your backyard.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops