Delicious Ideas for Effortless Summer Hosting
It’s almost Memorial Day, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and celebrate possibly the first cookout of the season! I’ve always viewed Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer. I can see it now… the sun is shining, simple cookout recipes are on the menu, and you’re surrounded by family and friends—truly the ideal way to kick off the season. In honor of Memorial Day and the return of summer grilling, I’ve gathered a handful of dishes that are perfect for the holiday weekend. From crowd‑pleasing sides and grilled favorites to easy summer appetizers, these eight simple cookout recipes will complement any celebration. Grab your ingredients and put on your red, white, and blue for a delicious Memorial Day weekend spread!
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Oven-Baked Chili Cheese Dogs
There’s something so nostalgic about a good old-fashioned chili cheese dog! Golden buns stuffed with hot dog, chunky chili, shredded cheese, onion, and all the fixings your heart desires! All oven-baked to perfection to create a delicious crowd-pleaser (that will certainly call for a fork and knife)! If this recipe doesn’t scream summer nostalgia, then I don’t know what does! Pssst…I traditionally cook these in the oven but can certainly be cooked on the grill on indirect heat.
Turkey Burgers
Not to be dramatic, but this is hands down the best turkey burger recipe I’ve ever tried. It’s become a true staple in my home and the homes of many friends, followers, etc.! The juicy patty is packed with flavor and made using clean, everyday ingredients in less than 5 steps. Fresh, simple, and so easy. Pssst… you can cook them indoors using a grill pan—no outdoor grill required! The epitome of a simple cookout recipe.
Sangria
What’s a Memorial Day cookout without a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail)?! My White Sangria recipe has all of the qualities of the perfect summer sip. Light, fruity, refreshing, and oh-so easy to make. I love the ease of preparing cocktails in bulk when entertaining. Simply prepare in advance, garnish with your favorite seasonal fruits, and serve! You can even prepare my Red Sangria to give guests an array of options!
Tequila Marinated Beef Skewers
Who doesn’t love a healthy recipe that doesn’t compromise flavor?! Introducing one of my all-time favorite summer grilling recipes… Tequila Marinated Beef Skewers! This is the epitome of a simple cookout recipe–consisting of sliced beef tenderloin threaded onto bamboo skewers, soaked in a perfectly balanced marinade and then grilled to perfection. These delicious hand-held bites are a family favorite and the perfect recipe for summer entertaining.
Dipping Trio
In Texas, we don’t mess around when referring to our chips & salsa! A simple dip trio is the perfect light bite for summer entertaining. My go-to lineup consists of my mother’s salsa recipe, guacamole, and last but not least… smoked queso dip. The beauty of this dipping trio is in the ease (and the incredible taste, of course). Each item is easy to prepare, and even easier to enjoy! Simply serve it in a dip set, and leave it out for guests to enjoy!
6 Bean Baked Beans
No cookout is complete without a spread of delicious side dishes. This Memorial Day, swap out traditional baked beans for my 6 Bean Baked Beans! It’s one of those recipes that looks and tastes impressive, but couldn’t be easier to prepare. People are always asking for the recipe at the end of the meal! This will truly be the star of the side dish show!
Build Your Own Cheeseburger Bar
Cheeseburgers are another true summer grilling staple, and this delicious recipe is my go-to! The juicy patty, toasted bun, and tantalizing toppings are just hard to beat. When hosting a group I like to take this classic cheeseburger recipe one step further with a “Burger Bar”… a display of fixings including sauces, cheeses, and toppings. This spread is fun, easy and allows guests to create the summer burger of their dreams. Pssst… if you really want to wow your guests, I recommend using double beef patties and two slices of cheese.Yum!!!
Ice Cream & Spiked Berries
Last but not least… a sweet treat to end the Memorial Day festivities! What better way to cool down on a hot summer day than with ice cream?! My Ice Cream and Spiked Berries recipe is the ideal summer treat. It’s a seasonally appropriate and flavorful take on traditional vanilla bean ice cream. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s slightly different from the norm, yet still easy to make… this is the answer! Elevated, easy to make, and oh-so delicious.
