60+ Labor Day Recipes

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Start planning your Labor Day festivities with this list of recipes from appetizers, desserts, mains, and sides. There are so many ideas to choose from. Whether you are celebrating with just a few or hosting a party, you are sure to find Labor Day recipes for everyone to love.

These Labor Day cookout ideas will guarantee that your holiday feast is a mouthwatering affair. From succulent grilled mains to refreshing salads and irresistible desserts, this collection has everything you need to create a spread that will have your guest come back for seconds.

What is Labor Day?

Labor Day is a celebration of achievements in campaigning for workers’ rights. This became a federal holiday created by the labor movement that is traditionally celebrated on the first Monday in September. A three-day weekend and patriotic holiday, Labor Day honors the workers who fought for economic freedom for the working class.

tips for making A Labor Day feast

1. Fire up the grill! – Choose a few different foods to get the most use out of the grill, including mains and sides.
2. Plan ahead – To ensure a great time for everyone, plan your meal out ahead of time. This will give you the chance to choose recipes that will accommodate everyone. If there is a dietary restriction, you can make alterations to a portion of food you plan on cooking.
3. Make recipes ahead of time. If you have pasta salad, desserts, prep, and marinating to do, spend the day or two beforehand preparing. You can make some recipes completely and prep for others to be ready the day of. This makes a world of difference, and you’ll be able to enjoy entertaining instead of just cooking.
4. Suggest a Potluck. Invite your guests to bring a dish with them to your Labor Day BBQ. Choose a few recipes you’d like to make and communicate what else to bring so the entire spread doesn’t fall on you.
5. Set up an appetizer bar. Make up a few different finger foods that guests can nibble on throughout the day, like dips, bite-size items, and a variety of fresh fruits and veggies. You can focus on socializing and grilling up the mains without a fuss about when they are ready.
6. Include a drink table. Have a small area where you can serve just drinks with ice and cups, a cooler with canned and bottled drinks, carafes of beverages, and adult drinks nearby, too!

how to plan a menu for A Labor Day Cookout

It’s no surprise that food is a big part of Labor Day festivities. From backyard BBQs to relaxed gatherings, you can make the most of the long weekend with sure-to-please recipes and simple tips to keep stress at bay.

• Tally up the guest count. You’ll want to know how many people plan to attend and if they will be eating. This will help you decide how much food to make without having an abundance of leftovers.
• Choose your recipes. Pick which recipes you want to make and how to combine the prep work. You’ll be able to utilize your time better when you prep for multiple dishes at the same time.
• Select cooking methods. After choosing the recipes, decide how they should be cooked. Do you want to grill, cook on the stovetop, or have no-bake recipes, or a combination? Determine which methods are required for your recipes and set up a plan to execute them best.
• Plan how food will be served. If you include a variety of hot and cold dishes, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and to temp. Use ice where needed and steam tables to keep hot foods hot. If food is served outside, consider also getting mesh covers to eliminate pests around the food.

Traditional Labor Day Food Ideas

• Potato Salad. Not many cookouts go without a good potato salad! This recipe has a bright citrus dressing, fresh herbs, and onions with the best flavors of summer.
• Grilled Burgers. Firing up the grill and cooking up burgers is the best way to celebrate. You can grill beef burgers, or switch it up and try a chicken burger. Don’t forget your vegan friends with a good chickpea burger option.
• Fruit. It wouldn’t be Labor Day without fresh fruit served in various ways. Make a fruit salad or have a little fun with fruit kabobs with berries and melon.
• Grilled Vegetables. If you are grilling at your holiday cookout, then vegetables are easy to add to the menu. Grill up corn, kabobs, tomatoes, and even onions.
• Hot dogs – Kid-friendly, easy to grill, and one of the most common and traditional foods for cookouts.

best Labor Day recipes

Planning your Labor Day festivities will be a breeze with these tips and ideas on creating a cookout menu that you and your guest will love. Below is a list of Labor Day menu ideas from appetizers, grilled mains, side dishes, and desserts.

labor day appetizers

Choose a few different Labor Day appetizer ideas to add to your menu. From finger foods to dips, you’ll have some tasty apps for guests to nibble at throughout the day.

• Buffalo Chicken Dip – Before you know it, you’ll be scraping the bottom of the dish of this hot cheesy chicken dip. Serve carrot sticks, celery, and chips on the side.
• Spinach and Feta Hand pies – Made with just a few simple ingredients, these delicious Greek spanakopita triangles are a fun appetizer recipe that will impress your guests.
• Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Dip – This hummus recipe is full of flavor and can be served with veggies, pita bread, or homemade pita chips.
• Chicken Wonton Taco Cup – These tasty bite-sized appetizers are filled with juicy taco seasoned chicken, fresh salsa, & cheese that is ready in 30 minutes.
• Deviled Avocado Eggs – 5 simple ingredients make these healthy deviled eggs without using mayo. They’re bright, creamy, and just as tasty.
• Mini Mac & Cheese Bites – This is such a fun and yummy recipe that is cheesy and super easy to make. Kids and adults alike will love this as an appetizer.
• Stuffed Mushrooms – You can’t beat serving stuffed mushrooms at a party! Treat your guests to this cheesy veggie stuffed mushroom appetizer that makes perfect finger food.
• Smoked Salmon Board – If you want a platter that will impress your guests, this beautiful array of fresh-cut vegetables, smoked salmon, and other bold flavors will do just that.
• Greek Meatballs – Stuffed with feta, these meatballs are easy to make ahead of time and pop in the oven when ready to serve.

labor day grilling ideas

A well-deserved Labor day weekend should be celebrated! Load the grill down with your favorite foods that can serve a crowd or a small gathering.

• Juicy Grilled Steak – The king of the grill, a perfectly cooked steak is always a cookout crowd pleaser.
• Grilled Marinated Chicken – Juicy yogurt marinated chicken, succulent and grilled to perfection, is a great way to spice up your summer grilling game.
• Grilled Cod Filet – A favorite for white fish, this mild, delicate, and flaky fish is a healthy grilling option that has the best flavor.
• Beef or Chicken Kabobs – Grilling kabobs are fun and easy to make. Load up the skewer with chicken or steak and fresh veggies to grill up something for everyone to eat.
• Grilled Turkey Burgers – This is a juicy, delicious alternative to beef burgers. Serve one or both, and keep the grill going for a Labor day cookout with tons of flavor.
• Beef Burgers – Give ’em what they love! You can’t go wrong with the classic beef burger on the grill.
• Grilled Mahi Mahi – Served with a fresh mango avocado salsa, grilled fish is perfect for a Labor Day cookout. Serve the filets as the main dish, or as fish tacos (see recipe below).
• Grilled Fish Tacos – These flaky white fish tacos are marinated and grilled, then stuffed in a taco shell with the best sweet and tangy coleslaw.
• Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Bright lemony grilled shrimp must make an appearance when you are having a cookout. They’re easy to make and can be a main dish or just a snacking food for guests.
• Shish Tawook – A Lebanese chicken recipe that is marinated in yogurt and grilled on a skewer is a tasty and EASY grilling recipe. Serve in a pita or over rice.

labor day side dish Recipes

Side dishes are what will round out your cookout table spread. Choose a few easy side dishes that will pair with your main recipes.

• Cauliflower Un-Potato Salad – This faux potato salad is made with cauliflower instead of potatoes. It resembles the real thing in taste, color, and texture and is a healthy dish that is perfect for serving a crowd.
• Halved Grilled Tomatoes – Grilled tomatoes are juicy, smoky, and a delicious add-on to any BBQ! The char from the grill elevates the tomatoes and are perfect for Summertime cooking.
• Grilled Onions – These onions are skewered, grilled, and can be served on top of burgers or on top of pasta salad.
• BBQ Baked Beans – This traditional side dish is so easy to make in an Instant Pot! They are rich and delicious, and no cookout should be without!
• Strawberry Pasta Salad – A mix of strawberries, spinach, pasta, and mozzerella balls, this is a fun and bright summer salad to pair with other cookout dishes.
• Cowboy Caviar – This dish can be used as a dip for chips or on top of tacos for a fresh, tangy, and full of flavor side dish.
• Macaroni Salad – This vegan pasta salad recipe features a tangy, creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables. It’s a classic side dish for BBQs that is more veggie-forward and lighter than traditional macaroni salad.
• Street Corn Salad – You will absolutely love the freshness of this Mexican corn salad recipe that combines cotija cheese, tangy dressing, spicy jalapenos, and cilantro.
• Greek Pasta Salad – This orzo pasta salad is made with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and is tossed with feta, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions.

lABOR DAY SALADS

Fresh salads are an absolute must for any Labor Day menu. Whether it’s a classic green salad or a bright fruit salad, these crisp and flavorful dishes add a burst of freshness to your spread.

• Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad – This summer salad is ready in 5 minutes and is perfect for BBQs and picnics!
• Classic Garden Salad – A delicious mix of crisp veggies and romaine lettuce drizzled with a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a yum-filled experience.
• Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Basil – The juicy sweetness of watermelon complements the refreshing crunch of cucumber and creamy feta for a delicious treat that goes well with any Labor Day menu.
• Mediterranean Chopped Salad – Vibrant flavors with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, chickpeas, feta cheese, and olives tossed in a herby, lemony vinaigrette for a major flavor explosion.
• Tropical Fruit Salad – Every cookout needs a good fruit salad. Succulent pineapple, tangy kiwi, juicy mango, and some fresh berries tossed it a secret citrus sauce for that perfect touch.
• Tomato Avocado Salad – Add this quick and easy tomato avocado cucumber onion salad – a perfect side for end-of-summer gatherings. The zesty lemon-dill dressing adds a refreshing twist that everyone will love.
• Summer Peach Salad – Savor the season’s best fruit with this simple yet delicious peach salad made with baby spinach, avocado, and fresh peaches.
• Corn Tomato Avocado Salad – Simple, fresh, and full of flavor that’s great with leftover grilled corn and seasonal tomatoes.

Easy LABOR DAY Recipes

While a lot of the recipes in this collection are fairly easy, these are super easy and fuss-free. These Labor Day options are excellent for last-minute get-togethers that will still deliver tasty results but in half the time. 

• Cucumber Sushi Roll – Made using cucumber ribbons to roll the sushi up, these are fresh and filled with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and crunchy veggies. An easy Labor Day recipe that will really wow your guests.
• Easy Pinwheel Sandwiches – These bite-size sandwiches are sure to be a hit among kids and adults alike. Choose from hummus and veggie, everything bagel and tomato, pesty turkey, or chicken salad pinwheel.
• Buffalo Chicken Salad – This is a lighter take on the famous buffalo wings but it’s made with shredded chicken breast and spicy buffalo sauce, topped with crunchy cabbage, celery, and carrots.
• Easy Chickpea Salad – Loaded with simple ingredients and a fresh dressing to bring all of it together for an easy and quick protein-packed salad.
• Tuna Avocado Salad – Serve a lightened up version of tuna salad in an avocado half for a satisfying and delicious last-minute meal.
• Sheet Pan Nachos – These are always a hit and such a fun way to serve nachos for a crowd. Load tortilla chips, beef, beans, and cheese with your favorite nacho toppings and enjoy a hassle-free meal.
• Healthy Baked Cod – Whip this up easily in 15 minutes for a last-minute Labor Day deliciousness – it’s a five-star meal straight out of your oven. 

labor day desserts

Don’t skip the dessert! Ending your party with something sweet is a must. Have your guests bring dessert, or try one of these recipes.

• Shaken Ice Cream – So easy to make, and you can mix and match flavors, so there is something for everyone.
• Watermelon Fruit Pizza – Whipped cream cheese and ricotta icing with juicy watermelon is topped with fresh kiwi, blueberries, and strawberries; it is sure to be a hit at your next party.
• Fresh Fruit Popsicles – Serve these healthy ice pops made from fresh fruit sweetened with honey—a great way to cool down and have a tasty treat. The kids will LOVE them.
• Lemon Bars – Creamy, chewy, and absolutely delicious – these lemon bars are vegan and made with an oatmeal walnut crust and fresh lemons.
• Greek Yogurt Brownies – Chocolate is always a winner for any reason. This recipe is a healthier version with yogurt and no oil.
• Easy Apple Crisp – Serve this apple crisp warm with a scoop of ice cream to wind down towards the end of your party. The warm spices and cold cream is a cozy bowl of goodness.
• Grilled Peaches – This simple summertime dessert is so effortless to make. Cinnamon and brown sugar grilled peaches served with ice cream, granola & fresh mint.
• Cheesecake Cups – These are easy to put together, made lighter with Greek yogurt, and finished with fresh strawberries. No baking is required, and ready in 20 minutes.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dip – This is a perfect party dip for fresh fruit and cookies. Just 5 ingredients and a few minutes to bring this delicious dessert dip together.

other labor day food ideas

We’ve narrowed down the recipes for a welcoming cookout with appetizers, burgers, side dishes, and fresh salads, but here are a few more ideas to include in your Labor Day menu.

• Air Fryer Hamburgers – Skip the grill this Labor Day and utilize your trusty Air Fryer for these super juicy and evenly cooked burgers. Don’t forget the coleslaw on top!
• Raspberry Iced Tea – It’s hot, and having a refreshing beverage will certainly win over the guest. This lightly sweet, fruity tea is a great addition.
• Fruit Ice Cubes – Naturally sweeten your water and add a pop of color and fun with this unique and delicious idea.
• Watermelon – Summer cookouts without watermelon? Take a whole watermelon and cut it into pieces or use it in your recipes. It’s hydrating, sweet, and refreshing – a great food to have on hand for kids.
• Ranch Dressing – Make your own salad dressing to serve with a fresh chopped salad or for dipping vegetable sticks in.
• Baked Tofu – This is a great option for those who don’t eat meat. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it can be used on top of salads or on a bun with their toppings of choice.
• Lebanese Fruit Cocktail Drink – A delicious blend of juicy fruits in a sweet strawberry puree, topped with creamy ashta, and a crunchy nut topping. It’s an excellent treat to enjoy during your cookout.

HOW TO keep food warm

• Oven: As long as you’re not cooking anything in the oven, you can set it to 200°F and store dishes in there to keep them warm.
• Aluminum Foil: If your oven is not free, you can simply use aluminum foil, which has reflective properties that protect the food from light and oxygen. The foil reflects the thermal energy back to the food, which maintains the moisture, flavor, and texture.
• Crock Pots and Instant Pots: Think of recipes that can be made in your crock pot or instant pot that will keep warm during the party. You can even use them to keep foods warm even if you don’t cook in them.
• Insulated coolers: You can use a cooler to keep food hot as well as cold. The insulation technology that keeps out the heat to maintain cold foods also works to trap heat in and keep food hot for hours at a time. You can even line the cooler with aluminum foil for even better results.

HOW TO store all the leftovers

• Use the appropriate containers for each food, such as air-tight tubs, zip-top bags, or mason jars for salad dressings.
• Be sure that hot foods are cooled down before storing them in the refrigerator. If you put the foods in while too hot, it can bring down the temperature. Quickly cool a hot dish by placing it in an ice bath in its respective container.
• If food has sat out too long at room temperature when it should have been either hot or cold, it’s best to toss it. Generally, this is usually after 2 hours, so it’s important to serve recipes and keep them at an optimal temperature throughout your gathering.
• Perishable items such as meats, dairy, salads, and cut fruit should be stored in the refrigerator.

frequently asked questions

These 60 recipes will bring together the best spread for a Labor Day Cookout or gathering with friends and family. From appetizers, to recipes on the grill, and a bunch of side dishes and dessert recipes, everything you need to plan a Labor Day menu can be found here. Plus, there’s even a list of easy recipes with no grill involved!

full list of recipes

Check out the picture cards for all the recipes listed above. You can click on any of the recipe cards to take you directly to those recipes.

For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: 70 Best Lebanese Recipes, Kids Lunch Box Ideas (Bento Box), Recipes with Vegetable Broth, and 35 Best Air Fryer Recipes.

If you found this recipe roundup for Labor Day Recipes helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!