As Labor Day approaches, many of us are looking for ways to celebrate the unofficial end of summer with friends and family. What better way to do so than with a delicious backyard BBQ or picnic? In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for grilling up a storm on Labor Day. From classic BBQ ribs to spicy shrimp skewers, and from savory burgers to sweet s’mores dip, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big bash, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds. And the best part? Many of them can be prepared ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying the party rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in some serious Labor Day culinary bliss!
Classic BBQ Ribs with Smoky Dry Rub
Get ready for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs smothered in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce and infused with the deep flavors of our signature Smoky Dry Rub.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/2 cup Smoky Dry Rub (see below)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
Smoky Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps with tenderization).
3. In a small bowl, mix together the Smoky Dry Rub ingredients.
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both racks of ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the ribs in the grill or smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. Brush the ribs with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Juicy Beer Can Chicken with Herbs
A twist on classic chicken recipes, this beer can chicken is infused with juicy flavors and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 beer can (any style)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
4. Stuff the beer can with the herb mixture, then place it in the cavity of the chicken.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tail segments (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the lobster tails with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. If using white wine and lemon juice, brush the lobster during the last minute of grilling.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Spicy Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these succulent shrimp skewers, infused with the perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these spicy, savory, and indulgent treats. A sweet and smoky combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fiery jalapeños will have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully hollow out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of shredded cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, tangy pulled pork sliders topped with a refreshing coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 8 slider buns
– Coleslaw ingredients: (see below)
Coleslaw Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and cilantro (if using).
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble sliders by placing about 1/4 cup of pulled pork on each bun.
7. Top with coleslaw (see below).
Coleslaw Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your grilled corn game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the spiciness of chili lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: cotija cheese or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, and chili flakes until well combined.
3. Brush the chili lime butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place corn on the cob directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until lightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cotija cheese or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Stuffed Burgers with Blue Cheese
Elevate your burger game with this savory and tangy twist, featuring caramelized onions and pungent blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 high-quality beef patties (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over low-medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, season the beef patties with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a spoonful of caramelized onions, a sprinkle of blue cheese, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
6. Assemble the burgers on buns and add your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe
Get ready to devour these mouth-watering, finger-lickin’ good chicken wings smothered in a sweet and sticky BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the BBQ sauce mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or oil. Arrange the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Veggie Platter with Balsamic Glaze
A colorful and flavorful veggie platter that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a stress-free weekend meal. This recipe showcases the sweet and tangy combination of grilled vegetables smothered in a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Grill vegetables for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over grilled vegetables and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Top
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying macaroni and cheese dish, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly on top of the mac and cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded BBQ Baked Potatoes with Pulled Pork
Elevate your potato game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender pulled pork, creamy BBQ sauce, and crispy baked potatoes. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup pulled pork (see note)
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
– Chopped green onions and sour cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the BBQ sauce and pulled pork in a pan over medium heat.
6. When the potatoes are done, slice them open and top each one with a spoonful of the BBQ pork mixture, shredded cheese, and crumbled bacon.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Fire-Roasted Sausage and Pepper Kabobs
Savor the smoky flavor of sausages roasted to perfection with colorful peppers and onions on skewers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 4 Italian sausage links (about 12 inches each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or marinades for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausages, peppers, and onions onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until sausages are browned and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as crusty bread or roasted potatoes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zesty Citrus Marinated Flank Steak
A refreshing twist on traditional marinades, this zesty citrus flank steak recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of bright citrus flavors and savory spices will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine orange juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the flank steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Buttery Grilled Garlic Bread
Savor the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread with this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (about 12-14 inches long)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices.
4. Brush both sides of each slice with the garlic-butter mixture.
5. Place the slices on the grill or grill pan in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch between each slice.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Sprinkle with dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on grill heat and desired level of browning.
Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of mint. Perfect for hot days when you need a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cool Ranch Pasta Salad with Bacon
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of tangy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and cool lettuce for a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta (farfalle)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup of Cool Ranch dressing
– 2 cups of mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of crumbled cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, Cool Ranch dressing, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cheddar cheese (if using).
3. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the dressing and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (pasta cooking time) + chilling time
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Elevate your summer salads with this sweet and savory combination of grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach wedges with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into large pieces and place on a plate.
4. Top burrata with grilled peaches, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Decadent S’mores Dip with Graham Crackers
Decadent S’mores Dip with Graham Crackers
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent twist on the classic campfire treat!
Ingredients:
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup marshmallows
• 1 sleeve graham crackers (about 10-12 crackers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; mix until combined.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop; let cool slightly.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the dip into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Arrange graham crackers on top of the dip, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve warm with additional graham crackers and marshmallows, if desired!
Refreshing Blueberry Lemonade Sparkler
Sip on this delightful drink during the warmest days of the year, as it combines sweet blueberries with zesty lemonade and a hint of sparkle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup sparkling water (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the blueberries and lemon juice. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the water and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, add the sparkling water (if using) and stir gently.
6. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Blueberry Lemonade Sparkler over the ice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink recipe!
