55 Best Labor Day Recipes for One Last Summer Cookout
Say goodbye to the season by firing up the grill.
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Though it's technically not the official end of summer, Labor Day weekend always feels like the final hurrah before the busy season of school, sports, and cold weather starts. And you can't say goodbye until you have one last cookout! So, go ahead and throw that pool party or backyard bash—just don't forget to load up on these Labor Day recipes first.
Here, you'll find tons of ideas for refreshing summer cocktails, grilling recipes, and BBQ sides. It's basically your one-stop-shop for the ultimate summer-ending bash. There's even some easy no-bake desserts and red, white, and blue treats! Of course, no Labor Day menu would be complete without hot dogs and burgers. Ahead, you'll find tons of creative variations on the classic cookout foods, like chili dogs, queso burgers, and even cheeseburgers on a stick. Or try something new like Dr Pepper BBQ chicken with the perfect sticky-sweet glaze.
Planning to spend the weekend camping or at the beach? You're covered with campfire grub and picnic-friendly ideas that your family will love. Looking to put those garden-fresh veggies to good use? There are tons of zucchini recipes, like stuffed zucchini, and tomato recipes, like upside-down tomato cornbread and stuffed tomatoes loaded with sausage and cheese. For Labor Day desserts, try the ice cream treats, icebox cakes, fruit pies, and more. So what are you waiting for? Your summer send-off has officially begun.
Grilled Chicken Wings
Labor Day weekend means football season is finally back. That also means wings! Grilling them gets them crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with bold, smoky flavor.
Get the Grilled Chicken Wings recipe.
Street Corn Pasta Salad
It's still corn season, so take advantage while you can! This salad is the perfect balance of spicy and creamy with a pop of fresh cilantro and zesty lime.
Get the Street Corn Pasta Salad recipe.
Spicy Queso Burgers
If you like more than just a little kick of heat, add homemade queso and pickled jalapeños on top of your burgers. Even better? Mix smoky chorizo with ground beef to bring the patties to a new level.
Get Ree's Spicy Queso Burgers recipe.
Red, White, and Blue Popsicles
A long, American weekend calls for a fun American dessert. Plus, it's probably still so darn hot outside! Cool down with these berry cute popsicles featuring strawberries, blueberries, and vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt.
Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil
If you haven't tried making a shrimp boil yet this summer, now is your chance! First-timers will appreciate this easy recipe that's made in the slow cooker.
Get Ree's Slow Cooker Shrimp Boil recipe.
Chili Dogs
Consider dressing up your hot dogs for the ultimate summer party. Ree Drummond tops hers with homemade chili, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped onions.
Get Ree's Chili Dogs recipe.
S'mores Dip
You don't even need a campfire to make this fun twist on s'mores! Dip graham crackers in a fudgy chocolate filling topped with toasted marshmallows that stays warm thanks to the cast iron skillet.
Get the S'mores Dip recipe.
Dr Pepper BBQ Chicken
It may seem strange to use soda in a sauce for chicken, but it's not! As the chicken cooks, the sugar in the sauce caramelizes and becomes a sticky, glossy, gorgeous coating.
Get the Dr Pepper BBQ Chicken recipe.
Stuffed Tomatoes
Enjoy what's left of tomato season by stuffing them with savory sausage, onions, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and pepper jack cheese. They're the perfect side for any grilled protein.
Get the Stuffed Tomatoes recipe.
Pickle Cheeseburger Bites
This adorable twist on classic cheeseburgers is perfect for a summer gathering. Everyone can grab their own skewers stacked with juicy little patties and all the fixin's.
Get Ree's Pickle Cheeseburger Bites recipe.
Blackberry Smash Sweet Tea
If you're a fan of the classic Southern sipper, why not give it a special seasonal twist for your last summer bash? It's flavorful, refreshing, and great for every age.
Get Ree's Blackberry Smash Sweet Tea recipe.
Perfect Potato Salad
This potato salad is fluffy, light, and downright perfect according to Ree (hence the name!). It's also chockfull of mix-ins like bacon, cheese, pickles, and hard boiled eggs.
Get Ree's Perfect Potato Salad recipe.
Pork Burgers
You might always think of beef, but give these burgers a try. They are made with smoky bacon and onions mixed right into the patties. It'll take your backyard barbecue to the next level!
Get the Pork Burgers recipe.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
These skewers are just about the easiest, most versatile side dish you'll make all season long. You can switch up the veggies based on your family's preferences and what's available fresh at the market.
Get the Grilled Veggie Skewers recipe.
Grilled T-Bone Steak
It just wouldn't be a proper cookout without a big grilled steak! This one uses an easy homemade spice rub that's loaded with flavor.
Get Ree's Grilled T-Bone Steak recipe.
Beer Can Chicken
This technique for grilled chicken ensures a tender, juicy, and flavorful result every time. All you need is one 12-ounce can of beer, which you'll probably have on hand anyway!
Get the Beer Can Chicken recipe.
Blackberry Pie
This homemade pie will hit the spot when sweet, juicy blackberries are at their peak. Finish it off with a big dollop of whipped cream or a heaping scoop of ice cream if you prefer.
Get the Blackberry Pie recipe.
Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs have triple the pickle flavor thanks to chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, and fresh dill. They're perfect for a picnic or potluck!
Get Ree's Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs recipe.
Watermelon Gazpacho
Soup season might not have started yet, but this chilled gazpacho is perfect for summer! It's made with seasonal produce, like tomatoes, cucumbers, and watermelon.
Get the Watermelon Gazpacho recipe.
Cowboy Beans
A bowl of smoky, tangy beans made with hearty ground beef will fit in perfectly with your BBQ menu. The best part? They're easy to make ahead of the cookout.
Get the Cowboy Beans recipe.
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