Labor Day Cookout Recipes are the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends. Whether you’re grilling up classic burgers, serving refreshing sides, or enjoying delicious desserts, these recipes will elevate your cookout experience.
Planning a memorable Labor Day gathering starts with the right recipes. With a variety of flavors and options to suit every taste, these 17 recipes will ensure that your cookout is both fun and delicious. From smoky meats to mouthwatering appetizers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Get ready to impress your guests with easy-to-make yet impressive dishes that are perfect for outdoor grilling. These Labor Day Cookout Recipes not only bring people together but also create lasting memories with every bite. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner, you’ll find dishes that are both simple and satisfying.
So fire up the grill and let these recipes inspire your next Labor Day celebration!
Barbequed Ribs
When it comes to Labor Day Cookout Recipes, barbequed ribs are undoubtedly a crowd favorite. These tender, smoky ribs are a classic cookout dish, offering a perfect combination of juicy meat and rich flavors. The key to making your Labor Day Cookout Recipes stand out is to slow-cook the ribs, which allows the meat to absorb the smoky flavors and spices fully. Whether you’re cooking pork or beef ribs, the process of marinating the meat before grilling is essential to ensuring maximum flavor. A well-seasoned rub, made with a mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of chili powder, will add a deep, savory flavor to the meat.
Once your ribs are prepared, place them on the grill over indirect heat to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture. During the grilling process, you’ll want to baste the ribs with a tangy barbecue sauce, which will caramelize and create a flavorful, sticky glaze. This adds both color and depth to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, making the ribs not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Ribs are perfect for serving at large gatherings because they can easily be cooked in batches to feed a crowd. The best part about Labor Day Cookout Recipes like barbequed ribs is that they pair wonderfully with side dishes like creamy coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or baked beans, making your cookout a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, barbequed ribs will be the star of the show!
S’more Brownies
For a delicious dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, look no further than s’more brownies. These decadent treats are a perfect addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes and offer a creative twist on the traditional campfire s’mores. The combination of rich, fudgy brownies with gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers creates a mouthwatering dessert that will have your guests coming back for seconds. The best part about s’more brownies is that they’re incredibly simple to make, yet they look and taste impressive.
Start by baking a batch of your favorite brownies and then top them with a layer of crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows. Return the brownies to the oven for a few minutes to allow the marshmallows to melt and toast slightly, giving them that signature s’more flavor. For an added layer of flavor, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the brownies for extra sweetness and richness. These Labor Day Cookout Recipes not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a sense of nostalgia to your cookout.
What makes s’more brownies such an ideal dessert for Labor Day Cookout Recipes is that they can be made ahead of time, saving you valuable time on the day of your event. Simply bake the brownies the day before, store them in an airtight container, and cut them into squares when you’re ready to serve. They’re easy to transport, making them a great option if you’re bringing a dish to someone else’s cookout. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert or as a sweet snack throughout the day, s’more brownies are sure to be a hit!
Firecracker Kabobs
If you’re looking to add a little spice to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, firecracker kabobs are the way to go. These skewers, packed with marinated meat and vegetables, bring a burst of bold flavors and a hint of heat, making them an exciting addition to your cookout menu. The marinade for firecracker kabobs is made from a zesty combination of lime juice, chili powder, garlic, and honey, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a tangy, spicy kick. Whether you use chicken, beef, or shrimp, the marinade will ensure that every piece of meat is packed with flavor.
Once your meat has marinated, skewer it along with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. These vegetables not only add a fresh contrast to the spicy meat but also soak up the marinade, making them incredibly flavorful. Grill the kabobs over medium-high heat, turning them occasionally, until they’re cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. The smoky, caramelized exterior paired with the tender meat inside makes firecracker kabobs a delicious and satisfying dish that will have your guests coming back for more.
What makes firecracker kabobs perfect for Labor Day Cookout Recipes is their versatility. You can customize them to suit any dietary preference or flavor profile, adding your favorite veggies or proteins. These kabobs are easy to prepare in advance, and you can even thread them onto the skewers the night before, saving you time during the cookout. Firecracker kabobs are perfect for serving as an appetizer or as a main dish, making them a great option for any cookout celebration.
Boston Baked Beans
No cookout would be complete without a hearty, flavorful side, and Boston baked beans are the perfect addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. This classic dish combines tender beans with a rich, savory sauce made from molasses, brown sugar, and smoky bacon. The slow-cooked beans absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce, making each bite comforting and satisfying. This dish is a great way to balance out the grilled meats and spicy dishes on your cookout menu, providing a sweet and savory contrast that everyone will love.
The secret to making perfect Boston baked beans lies in the slow cooking process. Cooking the beans low and slow allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deep, rich taste that is unmatched by quicker cooking methods. The addition of bacon gives the beans a smoky, savory depth, while the molasses and brown sugar provide a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with grilled meats like ribs or burgers. To enhance the flavor of your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, you can add a dash of mustard or a bit of hot sauce to the mix, giving the beans a tangy kick.
Boston baked beans are also incredibly versatile and can be made in a large batch, making them ideal for feeding a crowd at your cookout. They can be prepared the day before and simply reheated before serving, saving you time on the day of your celebration. Serve them alongside your favorite grilled meats, and you’ll have a well-rounded meal that perfectly complements your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a larger cookout, Boston baked beans will be a crowd-pleasing hit!
Grilled Potato Salad
If you’re looking for a unique twist on the traditional side dish, grilled potato salad is the perfect choice for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. Instead of boiling the potatoes, grilling them adds a smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. Once grilled, the potatoes are mixed with a tangy mustard-based dressing, fresh herbs, and crispy bacon, creating a hearty and flavorful side that will complement any main dish. The combination of warm potatoes with the cool, creamy dressing makes this salad a satisfying and delicious addition to your cookout spread.
For the best Labor Day Cookout Recipes, you’ll want to ensure the potatoes are cooked just right. Grilling them until they’re tender and slightly charred brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while adding that smoky flavor that pairs so well with grilled meats like burgers and ribs. Toss the warm potatoes in your dressing while they’re still hot, allowing them to soak up all the flavors, and then top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
The versatility of grilled potato salad makes it a go-to option for any cookout. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding in extras like olives, roasted garlic, or hard-boiled eggs. It can also be prepared in advance, so you’re free to focus on grilling your other Labor Day Cookout Recipes. This is one side dish that will surely stand out and keep your guests coming back for more!
Perfect Deviled Eggs
No cookout spread is complete without deviled eggs, and when it comes to Labor Day Cookout Recipes, you’ll want to ensure these classic appetizers are perfect. The creamy filling, made from a blend of mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of paprika, offers a rich, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the slightly tangy taste of the egg yolks. A sprinkle of paprika or chives on top adds a bit of color and an extra touch of flavor, making deviled eggs the ultimate crowd-pleaser at your cookout.
The key to perfect deviled eggs in your Labor Day Cookout Recipes is making sure the eggs are cooked just right. Overcooking can result in dry yolks, so be sure to gently boil the eggs until they are firm but still creamy inside. Once peeled and halved, scoop out the yolks and mix them with mayo, mustard, and your choice of seasonings. For a fun twist, try adding a bit of hot sauce, relish, or crispy bacon to your filling for added flavor and texture.
What makes deviled eggs so ideal for Labor Day Cookout Recipes is that they’re easy to make in advance and serve chilled. This allows you to free up time to focus on grilling or other tasks during the event. Whether you’re hosting a small backyard BBQ or a larger cookout, these creamy, flavorful bites will be a hit with guests of all ages.
Watermelon Summer Salad
A refreshing, vibrant dish like watermelon summer salad is a must-have for any Labor Day Cookout Recipes. The combination of sweet watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and fresh mint creates a deliciously light and refreshing salad that contrasts perfectly with the rich flavors of grilled meats and heavy sides. The natural sweetness of the watermelon balances the saltiness of the feta, while the mint adds a cool, refreshing note, making it an ideal dish for hot summer days.
To make this Labor Day Cookout Recipes salad even more flavorful, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top. This adds a hint of acidity that enhances the sweetness of the watermelon while tying the whole dish together. You can also customize this salad by adding cucumbers, red onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra layer of flavor.
The best part about watermelon summer salad is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Simply chop the watermelon into cubes and mix it with the other ingredients just before serving to keep the salad fresh. It’s a visually appealing and refreshing addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, making it the perfect way to cool off after indulging in all those delicious grilled treats.
Sheboygan Grilled Brats
For a cookout with bold flavors, Sheboygan grilled brats are a must-try addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. Originating from Sheboygan, Wisconsin, these sausages are known for their rich, savory flavor and perfect texture. Grilled to perfection, Sheboygan grilled brats are often served on a bun with mustard and onions, offering a satisfying and filling meal that pairs perfectly with cold drinks and your favorite side dishes.
The secret to great Sheboygan grilled brats is to grill them over medium heat, ensuring that they cook evenly without becoming too dry. Before grilling, you can soak the brats in beer or a flavorful marinade, which adds an extra layer of richness to the sausages. Once grilled, place them on fresh buns and top with your favorite condiments—grilled onions, sauerkraut, or even pickles—for a delicious bite.
Perfect for serving a crowd, Sheboygan grilled brats are a great way to feed a large group without a lot of fuss. They’re easy to prepare and can be made in bulk, making them one of the best Labor Day Cookout Recipes to serve at your event. Whether you’re grilling them for a family gathering or a larger cookout, Sheboygan grilled brats will surely satisfy every guest’s appetite.
Juiciest Hamburgers Ever
If you’re looking to elevate your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, then making the juiciest hamburgers ever should be at the top of your list. The key to these mouthwatering burgers lies in the quality of the beef and the technique you use to grill them. Start with freshly ground beef (80/20 fat ratio) to ensure each burger is packed with flavor and remains juicy as it cooks. Don’t forget to season the meat generously with salt and pepper before grilling, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
For the juiciest hamburgers ever, grill your patties over medium-high heat, flipping them only once to avoid drying them out. Adding a slice of cheese in the final minute of grilling creates a melty, gooey topping that complements the tender beef. Serve the burgers on toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a classic taste, or get creative with gourmet toppings like avocado, caramelized onions, or fried eggs.
These juiciest hamburgers ever are a staple for any Labor Day Cookout Recipes, providing a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize to suit every guest’s preferences. Whether you like your burgers simple or loaded with toppings, this recipe guarantees a delicious outcome. Grilled to perfection, these burgers will be the highlight of your cookout and have everyone asking for seconds!
Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad
For a refreshing and flavorful side dish to complement your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, consider making a pesto pasta Caprese salad. This vibrant salad combines the fresh flavors of mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, with the rich, garlicky taste of pesto dressing. The pasta serves as a hearty base, making it an ideal side to pair with grilled meats or lighter fare. The blend of ingredients brings a burst of flavor to your cookout table, creating a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
To prepare the perfect pesto pasta caprese salad, cook your pasta just until al dente, then toss it with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of homemade pesto. The pesto can be made from a simple combination of fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, giving the salad a creamy, herb-infused flavor. For an added touch of color and texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top of the salad just before serving.
This salad is a great make-ahead option for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, as it can be prepared earlier in the day and refrigerated until it’s time to serve. The fresh, vibrant ingredients and the creamy pesto dressing make it a perfect balance of flavors for any cookout. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary preferences.
Amazing Spicy Grilled Shrimp
For a cookout dish that’s full of flavor and heat, amazing spicy grilled shrimp should be at the top of your Labor Day Cookout Recipes list. Shrimp cook quickly on the grill and soak up marinades beautifully, making them an ideal option when you’re looking to add a bit of spice to your celebration. The key to achieving that perfect spicy kick is in the marinade, which is made with ingredients like garlic, chili flakes, lime juice, and a bit of olive oil. The shrimp absorb these bold flavors, creating a deliciously fiery dish.
Grilling the shrimp over high heat ensures that they cook quickly and develop a slightly charred exterior, adding a smoky element to the spice. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can turn rubbery when left on the grill too long. When ready, serve your amazing spicy grilled shrimp with a side of rice or a light salad, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
These shrimp make for an excellent appetizer or main course, depending on the size of your cookout. Their zesty and spicy flavor profile makes them an ideal choice for those looking for a bold, flavorful option in their Labor Day Cookout Recipes. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish, amazing spicy grilled shrimp is sure to impress your guests.
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
For a sweet, light dessert that’s perfect for the summer, strawberry shortcake cupcakes are an ideal choice for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. These individual-sized treats bring all the delicious flavors of the classic strawberry shortcake in a portable, easy-to-eat cupcake form. The fluffy, moist cake serves as the base, topped with freshly whipped cream and sweet, ripe strawberries for that perfect combination of flavors.
The key to making these cupcakes stand out is to use fresh, in-season strawberries, which are naturally sweeter and juicier. Whip the cream until it’s light and fluffy, then layer it generously on top of the cupcakes along with the sliced strawberries. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can drizzle a bit of strawberry syrup over the top or even sprinkle some crumbled shortbread for added texture.
These strawberry shortcake cupcakes are ideal for a Labor Day Cookout Recipes spread because they can be made in advance and served individually. The cute, single-serving portions make them easy to share, and their bright, summery flavors will add a fun and festive touch to your cookout. Whether you’re serving them at the end of the meal or as a light snack throughout the day, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
For a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, honey mustard grilled chicken is a fantastic addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a marinade that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors and ensures it stays moist while grilling. The honey adds a caramelized sweetness to the chicken’s surface, while the mustard provides a touch of sharpness and depth.
To make the perfect honey mustard grilled chicken, marinate the chicken in a mixture of honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of vinegar for at least an hour before grilling. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat, ensuring each piece is cooked through but still juicy. The result is tender chicken with a slightly crispy exterior, all coated in a sweet, tangy glaze.
Honey mustard grilled chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables, making it a perfect option for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. It’s also easy to prepare in large quantities, making it a great choice for a larger crowd. Whether you serve it on its own or as part of a mixed grill platter, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Esquites (Mexican Elotes Salad)
Add a touch of flavor and spice to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes with esquites, a Mexican-style street corn salad. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and a kick of chili powder. It’s a delightful, creamy side that’s sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors. The corn can be grilled for an added smoky depth, giving the salad an authentic, charred flavor.
To make esquites, simply grill fresh corn on the cob until it’s slightly charred, then cut the kernels off and mix them with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and a dash of chili powder. This mixture is creamy, savory, and just the right amount of spicy. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle additional chili powder or a bit of smoked paprika over the top.
This dish is a fun, flavorful addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes, and it pairs perfectly with other grilled foods like chicken, ribs, or burgers. You can easily adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili powder, making it a versatile dish that suits every taste preference. Serve it in small cups for easy serving, and your guests will love the unique, zesty twist on traditional corn on the cob.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
For a bold, savory appetizer that’s packed with flavor, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a perfect fit for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. These spicy, cheesy bites are stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and grilled to perfection. The smoky bacon balances out the heat of the jalapeños, while the cream cheese filling adds a creamy, rich texture. These poppers are a great way to kick off your cookout with a burst of flavor.
To make bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, slice the jalapeños in half and remove the seeds and membranes. Stuff each half with a generous amount of cream cheese, then wrap them tightly with a slice of bacon. Grill the poppers over medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melting. The result is a smoky, spicy appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are perfect for serving as a snack or appetizer before the main meal. They can be made in large batches, making them ideal for larger cookouts. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or a squeeze of lime for added flavor. These poppers will add a spicy kick to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes that your guests will rave about.
Chuck’s Favorite Mac and Cheese
For a comforting and indulgent side dish, Chuck’s favorite mac and cheese is a must-try for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. This creamy, cheesy dish is a crowd favorite that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, especially when you’re looking for something that complements rich, smoky flavors. The secret to Chuck’s mac and cheese lies in the rich combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, resulting in a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone will love.
To make the perfect Chuck’s favorite mac and cheese, cook your pasta al dente, then toss it with a creamy mixture of butter, milk, and shredded cheese. The addition of breadcrumbs on top adds a nice crunch, giving this dish a perfect texture contrast. Bake it until the top is golden and bubbly, and you’ll have a decadent dish that’s perfect for your Labor Day Cookout Recipes.
This mac and cheese can be made in advance, allowing you to focus on grilling or other tasks during your cookout. Serve it in a large dish for family-style dining, or portion it out into individual servings for a more festive presentation. Either way, Chuck’s favorite mac and cheese is sure to be a hit at your event, with its creamy, cheesy goodness that will satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Homemade Black Bean Veggie Burgers
For a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option, homemade black bean veggie burgers make a great addition to your Labor Day Cookout Recipes. These hearty burgers are made with black beans, breadcrumbs, and spices, creating a flavorful patty that’s perfect for grilling. The black beans provide a meaty texture, while the seasonings—like cumin, garlic, and chili powder—bring a smoky depth of flavor that rivals traditional beef burgers.
Making your own homemade black bean veggie burgers is easy and allows you to control the ingredients to suit your tastes. To bind the mixture together, add a bit of egg or a flax egg for a vegan option. Shape the mixture into patties and grill them until golden brown on both sides, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender interior. These veggie burgers can be topped with your favorite burger toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a spicy aioli.
Homemade black bean veggie burgers are a great way to accommodate guests who prefer plant-based options at your cookout. They’re hearty enough to satisfy even the most dedicated meat lovers and can be served alongside traditional burgers for variety. These veggie burgers also offer a high-protein, low-fat alternative that will keep everyone coming back for more.
