If you're hosting (or even just showing up hungry) this Memorial Day, I’ve got you covered with a full game plan that takes the guesswork out of what to make. This meal plan is packed with crowd-pleasing recipes—from grilled or baked mains to easy sides and dessert—and I even pulled together a grocery list to make shopping a breeze.
Whether you're firing up the grill or keeping it simple with make-ahead dishes, this is everything you need for a stress-free, flavor-packed holiday weekend.
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If you're hosting (or even just showing up hungry) this Memorial Day, I’ve got you covered with a full game plan that takes the guesswork out of what to make.
Chicken Wings
Serve these dry or drizzle them in BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or ranch.
The Best Burgers
If you’ve ever struggled with dry burgers, flare-ups, or just want that perfect juicy bite every time—this one’s for you
Southern Soul Food Potato Salad
Everyone will be begging you to bring this creamy, tangy Southern Soul Food Potato Salad to the next cookout.
Creamy Southern Coleslaw Recipe
If you’ve ever had that creamy, sweet coleslaw at a Southern BBQ and wondered how to make it at home—this is the one. It’s the kind of slaw that shows up at every cookout, fish fry, and family reunion down South. Super simple, but packed with flavor. Just the right balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy, with that classic crunch from fresh cabbage and carrots.
Southern Baked Beans with Bacon
I grew up learning how to cook by watching my great-grandmother bring Southern staples to life, and these baked beans are straight out of that playbook. With family roots in Louisiana and Mississippi, I’ve held onto the bold, rich flavors she taught me to love—and this recipe is exactly how we made baked beans in our house growing up.
Simple Stovetop Mac and Cheese
If you’re craving a comforting Southern classic without the hassle of baking, this simple stovetop mac and cheese is the perfect recipe for you. Rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness, this homemade version captures the essence of traditional soul food macaroni with ease. No oven required, just a few simple ingredients and a pot on the stove.
Oven Baked Corn on the Cob in Foil
This Easy Baked Corn on the Cob is drizzled in butter, smoked paprika, and garlic powder and then foil roasted in the oven. This is the best way to cook corn without husks. It's foolproof!
Broccoli Salad with Cheese
Crunchy, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this 15-Minute Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese is the ultimate quick and easy side dish! Packed with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy, slightly sweet dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of savory and refreshing. It comes together in just minutes with no cooking required—making it ideal for busy weeknights, BBQs, or meal prep.
Banana Pudding Trifle with Nila Wafers
This banana pudding trifle brings back memories of Southern cookouts and family potlucks, where someone always showed up with a big bowl layered with love. I’ve been making versions of this for years, and this one captures everything I love about the dessert—easy to assemble, rich in flavor, and always a crowd favorite.
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